Leo Bodnar MINI GPSDO (reference clock unit)

Additional information

Low-jitter GPS-locked precision frequency reference
400 Hz to 810 MHz output mini version.

This device outputs low-jitter reference clock frequency-locked to GPS signal.

Long term stability of output signal is defined by high accuracy of GPS Caesium references and approaches 1x10-12.

Short term signal quality is defined by internal TCXO clock source providing high-quality, low phase noise clock signal with sub-picosecond RMS jitter.

Digital PLL allows main output reference frequency to have almost any value between 400Hz and 810MHz.

Output signal is 3.3V CMOS levels with 50 Ohms characteristic impedance. Output drive level can be adjusted.

Output power level (measured at 10MHz, fundamental power channel):
+13.3dBm, drive setting 32mA
+12.7dBm, drive setting 24mA
+11.4dBm, drive setting 16mA
+7.7dBm, drive setting 8mA

Operation requires presence of GPS signal, however temporary loss will be tolerated seamlessly. Active or passive antennas are supported. An active antenna with 3 metre cable is provided with the device but can be substituted if necessary. GPS acquisition time after power-up is around 30 seconds. If GPS signal is lost, digital PLL will maintains best estimated output frequency based on historical data. On reacquisition of GPS lock, output is seamlessly brought back in sync with GPS reference. Entry and exit of frequency hold is glitch-less.

All frequency and output settings are fully user-configurable via USB connection from Windows PC.

GPS clock can be powered via mini USB connector from a PC, USB phone charger or USB power bank. USB connection to Windows PC is required only for one-off configuration. All settings are stored inside the device and maintain values when off. The SMA antenna connector voltage is 3.3V. Most active antennas work on a wide range - 2.5v to 5v because they have analogue LNA inside that is not sensitive to power level.

Examples of use include:
10.000MHz, 1.000MHz or other frequency reference for lab equipment and instrumentation
reference for transmitter equipment - HAM equipment, propagation beacons, frequency markers, VHF, UHF and microwave converters.
reference for receiving equipment, RTL SDRs (28.8MHz) and band scanners
calibration source for radio receivers
master clock for audio and video equipment, DACs and studio recording gear

Measured phase noise of standard (TCXO) version is equal or better than

-120 dBc/Hz at 100 Hz
-133 dBc/Hz at 1 kHz
-137 dBc/Hz at 10 kHz
-140 dBc/Hz at 100 kHz
-144 dBc/Hz at 1 MHz

Configuration Software - Click Here to Download