Motherboard clock generator has universal appeal

Cypress Semiconductor has introduced the industry's first personal computer motherboard clock generator that supports multiple processors and chipsets.

Cypress Semiconductor has introduced the industry's first personal computer motherboard clock generator that supports multiple processors and chipsets.

Cypress's new universal clock generator supplies timing signals for both Intel P4 processors and AMD K8 and next-generation processors, along with multiple chipsets from Intel, VIA and Silicon Integrated Systems (SiS).

Users can choose the processor and chipset to support through pin selections on the device.

The new CY28551 device offers a number of advantages over clock solutions designed specifically for a processor and chipset combination.

Motherboard manufacturers can greatly simplify their inventory requirements, and can make adjustments to their product mix without the need for a different clock if a chipset or processor is in short supply.

In addition, designers can transfer the same design and layout from one system to another using the new universal clock, reducing risk and saving design time and resources.

Asustek Computer, the world's leading provider of motherboards and notebooks, worked with Cypress on the design of the new clock.

Asustek offered motherboard expertise, helping Cypress to define the part for maximum flexibility and performance.

"We have seen convergence in clock architectures supporting multiple chipsets and platforms, driven by newer standards such as PCI Express", said SY Shian, Associate Vice President of Asustek.

"The universal clock is a versatile solution that leverages this trend, easing the process of board layout, termination and impedance matching over a variety of platforms".

"As the worldwide leader in motherboards, Asustek is taking advantage of these features with new boards in development today".

"The motherboard expertise and market knowledge of Asustek was instrumental in bringing this innovative solution to market", said Geoff Charubin, Managing Director of Cypress's PC Clock Business Unit.

"We'd like to thank Asustek for its collaboration, and we look forward to a strong partnership as Asustek brings leading-edge motherboards to market utilising the universal clock".

"The universal motherboard clock is a solution that showcases our strengths in this market segment - system expertise, a broad and deep technical base, and excellent customer relationships", said Elie Ayache, Cypress's Marketing Director for PC Clocks.

"Working with a leader such as Asustek has enabled us to introduce a ground-breaking product that meets the needs of next-generation PC system design".

The CY28551 universal clock is offered in a 64-pin QFN package and a 56-pin QFN (CY28551-3).

High-volume pricing will be competitive with clocks designed specifically for processor/chipset combinations.

Samples of the new devices are available now, with full production expected later this month.

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