Phase Noise Performance of a PLL Frequency Synthesizer when Powered by Silent Switchers

Sammanfattning: In use today are ‘normal’ DC-DC switching regulators with considerable switching noise and ringing, which is bad for noise-sensitive applications. This project involves a solution based on ‘Silent Switchers’ to prove its effectiveness in reducing noise. This idea is then coupled into identifying the susceptibility of a PLL synthesizer to ensure we understand the sensitivity of this type of component and if this can be used with a silent switcher. A particular PLL synthesizer evaluation board is currently powered by linear regulators, which is used as a basis for comparing results. A new board involving silent switchers is designed and manufactured. Phase noise measurements are done to evaluate if silent switchers are a suitable alternative for power supply.