Microchip Timing Module Supports AI Data Centre and 5G Synchronization

Microchip, in collaboration with Intel, has unveiled a new plug-in timing module designed for data centre servers and 5G virtualized RAN systems. The MD-990-0011-B module aims to streamline synchronization in infrastructure where timing accuracy is crucial for distributed AI workloads, cloud services, and real-time network functions.

This release is significant for eeNews Europe readers as timing is increasingly becoming a critical design consideration in AI infrastructure and 5G systems, moving beyond being just a back-end network function. The module offers a solution for OEMs and ODMs to incorporate robust synchronization without the need for custom timing circuitry.

Enhancing Infrastructure Designs with Plug-in Timing

The MD-990-0011-B module provides support for automatic source selection and locking across GNSS, Synchronous Ethernet, and Precision Time Protocol. This feature enables systems to maintain precise timing even in the event of disruptions to one of the sources, which is essential for high-availability data centre and telecom deployments.

According to Microchip, the module is compatible with Intel Xeon 6 SoC-powered server platforms and is built on Intel’s vRAN architecture. The goal is to facilitate lower-latency synchronization for applications like 5G radio access networks, distributed AI processing, and real-time cloud workloads.

“Timing plays a crucial role in guiding the world’s most transformative technologies. With the MD-990-0011-B timing modules, Microchip empowers designers to proactively address timing requirements, whether at the initial design phase or during upgrades,” stated Randy Brudzinski, corporate vice president of Microchip’s frequency and time systems business unit. “Our plug-in solution eliminates the complexity associated with custom timing circuits, offering integration and reliability, accelerating innovation, and reducing time-to-market for data centers and 5G networks.”

Holdover Capabilities and Integrated Components

The timing module is available in two variants. The MD-990-0011-BC01 provides 8 hours of holdover performance, while the MD-990-0011-BA01 offers 4 hours. Holdover functionality ensures stable timing during GNSS outages or network disruptions.

Furthermore, the module incorporates various Microchip technologies, including the ZL80132B SyncE synthesizer with two independent DPLL channels, OX-22x oven-controlled crystal oscillators, an MCP9808 temperature sensor, a 24LC024 EEPROM, and VC-820 low-jitter technology.

Mike Merluzzi, GM of radio access networks at Intel Corporation, commented, “Microchip’s MD-990-0011-B Timing Module aligns with Intel’s commitment to enabling next-generation infrastructure by delivering scalable, high-performance platforms ready for the demands of 5G, AI, and cloud computing. By simplifying timing integration and enhancing reliability on Intel Xeon 6 SoC-powered platforms, we are assisting customers in accelerating innovation and deployment.”