Compact, high-performance modules deliver reliable Position, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) in GNSS-denied environments, supporting radar, SATCOM, drones, and LEO missions.
Microchip Technology unveiled its new portfolio of GNSS Disciplined Oscillator (GNSSDO) modules, designed to simplify integration of mission-critical Position, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) technology in aerospace and defense applications. The modules combine Microchip’s embedded atomic clocks and oscillator technologies—including Chip-Scale Atomic Clocks (CSAC), Miniature Atomic Clocks (MAC), and Oven-Controlled Quartz Crystal Oscillators (OCXOs)—into compact, high-reliability systems.
The modules process reference signals from GNSS or alternative clock sources and discipline their on-board oscillators to maintain precise timing, stability, and holdover performance. This enables their deployment in military and defense applications such as radar, satellite communications (SATCOM), mounted and dismounted radios, vehicle platforms, and other PNT systems, including in GNSS-denied environments. Acting as a stand-alone subsystem or as part of a larger system, the modules deliver trusted, high-precision timing critical to operational performance.
Key modules in the portfolio include:
- MD-013 ULTRA CLEAN – Highest-performance GNSSDO, supporting multiple constellations including GPS, Galileo, BeiDou, and NavIC. The OCXO-based module offers ultra-low phase noise (−119 dBc/Hz at 1 Hz offset) and exceptional short-term frequency stability, with outputs of 1 PPS TTL, 10 MHz sine wave, and 10 MHz square wave. Dual-band, multi-GNSS options are available.
- MD-300 – Compact (1.5 × 2.5 in) module optimized for harsh environments, using MEMS OCXO or TCXO for low g-sensitivity, high shock/vibration tolerance, and low thermal transient response. Ideal for drones and manpacks, it outputs 1 PPS and 10 MHz signals.
- LM-010 – PPS-disciplined module for Low Earth Orbit (LEO) applications requiring radiation tolerance and stable holdover. Outputs include 1 PPS TTL and 10 MHz sinewave, disciplined to an external reference.
All modules feature Microchip-engineered oscillators, integrated 32-bit MCUs, and SmartFusion® 2 FPGAs, and are controlled via a common serial protocol and GUI. Microchip’s VDOM3 software and MD-01X Evaluation Kit support rapid development and system integration. The modules are now available for production.
