Zarlink Intros Timing Card ModuleZarlink Intros Timing Card Module

OTTAWA -- Zarlink Semiconductor (NYSE/TSX:ZL) today launched the ZL(TM)30461 timing module, the industry's smallest, most fully featured timing product for central timing cards in SONET/SDH (Synchronous Optical Network/Synchronous Digital Hierarchy) systems that provide clocking frequencies up to 155.52 MHz.

Designing highly reliable timing devices for central timing cards that comply with stringent SONET/SDH standards for network timing and synchronization is a key challenge for communications equipment makers. Zarlink's ZL30461 module minimizes design risks by combining digital and analog PLL (phase-locked loop) technology and a 20 MHz master oscillator into a small, standards-compliant timing device. The module offers 14 output clocks the industry's widest range of clocks for SONET/SDH timing cards without requiring external components or complex programming.

"In-house design and testing of timing and synchronization devices is often a costly, time-consuming process," said Darren Ladouceur, marketing manager, Timing and Synchronization, Zarlink Semiconductor. "Our ZL30461 module is a full-function, off-the-shelf device that meets worldwide standards for central timing cards."

Equipment vendors are evaluating the ZL30461 module for SONET/SDH central timing cards used in DSLAMs (digital subscriber line access multiplexers), media gateways, add/drop multiplexers, Internet routers, and network access equipment. The module can also be used on line cards in network element equipment. Coupled with the ZL30462 timing module for Stratum 4 and STM-1 applications, Zarlink now offers modules for both line cards and central timing cards in SONET/SDH equipment.

The ZL30461 device is a System-in-Package module measuring 23 mm (millimeters) by 23 mm or less than 1 square inch the smallest footprint in its class, and approximately 75% smaller than competing products.

Zarlink's module complies with Telcordia's GR-253-CORE standard for SONET Stratum 3, GR-1244-CORE standard for Stratum 3, and the ITU-T's (International Telecommunication Union-Telecommunications) G.812 and G.813 Option 1 and 2 standards for SDH equipment clocks (SEC). The module exceeds OC-12/STM-4 (Optical Carrier level 12/Synchronous Transfer Module level 4) jitter requirements at rates typically less than 7 picoseconds RMS (root mean square).

Zarlink Semiconductor Inc.