Leo Bodnar LBE-1423

The LBE-1423 is a high-precision, GPS-disciplined reference clock source with differential output and 1 PPS signal, which provides long-term stable and low phase noise frequency and time reference signals. It is ideal as a stable low jitter clock for FPGAs.

Long-term stability is determined by the GPS time standard (UTC, atomic clock-based) and typically reaches 1 × 10⁻¹² (≈ 0.000001 ppm) in GPS-locked mode. A high-quality internal TCXO optimizes short-term behavior and ensures very low phase noise and RMS jitter in the sub-picosecond range (typical, depending on the integration band).

The multi-stage digital/analog PLL allows the output frequencies to be finely adjusted from 1 Hz to 1.4 GHz.

The differentially driven output signal is a 3.3 V CMOS square wave with 50 Ω impedance and can be used directly as a stable clock for a wide range of digital and RF applications. In addition, a 1 PPS output is available for absolute time referencing.

The scope of delivery includes an active GPS antenna with a 5 m cable and magnetic base.

Signal and performance data

• Output power (at 10 MHz, basic channel): +11 dBm
• Typical phase noise at 10 MHz:
  • –72 dBc/Hz @ 1 Hz
  • –101 dBc/Hz @ 10 Hz
  • –128 dBc/Hz @ 100 Hz
  • –147 dBc/Hz @ 1 kHz
  • –156 dBc/Hz @ 10 kHz
  • –159 dBc/Hz @ 100 kHz
  • –164 dBc/Hz @ 1 MHz
• Rise/fall time at 10 MHz: 300 ps / 260 ps (10–90%)
• Power consumption: max. 250 mA at 5 V (USB-C)

GPS and holdover behavior

A GPS signal is required for operation. A temporary loss is processed seamlessly—without frequency or phase jumps.

• GPS acquisition time after power-up: approx. 30 seconds
• Holdover operation during GPS failure with best possible frequency retention
• Seamless resynchronization after reacquisition
• Support for active and passive antennas
• Antenna voltage at SMA connector: 3.3 V (max. 30 mA)

Configuration & Interfaces

• Configuration of output frequency via USB (Windows software)
• Storage of all settings in the device
• NMEA satellite data available via virtual serial USB port
• Power supply via USB-C (5 V) – PC, power supply, or power bank
• Factory preset to 10 MHz output frequency

Typical Applications

• Precise frequency and time reference signals for laboratory and test equipment.
• Differential clock source for FPGA inputs and high-speed digital logic.
• Reference for RF systems, SDRs, converters, and mixers.
• Calibration source for radio receivers and scanners.

Technical data

• Dimensions: 69 × 40 × 12 mm (including connectors)
• Power supply: USB-C, 5 V, max. 250 mA
• GPS antenna connector: SMA, 3.3 V, max. 30 mA
• RF outputs:
  • Output 1: 1 PPS (SMA)
  • Output 2 (differential): 1 Hz – 1.4 GHz, 3.3 V CMOS, 50 Ω
• Certification: CE, FCC, UKCA
• Warranty: 2 years