Clock distribution buffer for single-ended to LVPECL translation
The Renesas 8535AG-31LFT is a 2:4 fanout buffer and multiplexer that accepts LVCMOS, LVTTL, or crystal inputs and delivers LVPECL outputs at frequencies up to 266 MHz. It provides a clean translation from single-ended clock sources to differential LVPECL, which is useful for distributing a reference clock across multiple high-speed logic loads while maintaining signal integrity.
Input-to-output ratio and differential output
The 2:4 ratio means one of two input sources (selected via the multiplexer) is fanned out to four LVPECL outputs. The inputs are single-ended (LVCMOS, LVTTL, or crystal), while the outputs are differential — the datasheet notes No/Yes for differential input/output, confirming the translation. This matters because LVPECL outputs provide better noise immunity and faster edge rates than single-ended logic, which is important when driving multiple clock receivers over PCB traces longer than a few inches. The 266 MHz maximum frequency covers most Ethernet, PCIe Gen1/2, and FPGA reference clock applications.