ICS574M - 160MHz 1:4 PLL Zero-Delay Buffer | Renesas
MPN: ICS574M ✗ End of LifeICS574M Overview
A zero-delay buffer is a clock and timing IC that combines a phase-locked loop with multiple output stages. Within the product hierarchy, it belongs to clock distribution devices, which are part of clock and timing integrated circuits and ultimately semiconductor signal-management components. By compensating for internal propagation delay while distributing one source clock across four outputs, this type of device helps maintain controlled timing relationships across multiple digital loads.
The primary characteristics of the ICS574M are its 160 MHz maximum operating frequency, 1:4 input-to-output fanout, CMOS logic compatibility, and PLL-based zero-delay operation. Four independently available clock outputs make the device suitable where one incoming reference must drive several clock domains while limiting output-to-output timing skew. The 8-SOIC package provides a compact surface-mount format with a stated body width of 3.90 mm and lead pitch of 0.154 inches.
Technically, the PLL-based architecture is intended to reduce propagation delay and skew across distributed outputs. The verified device information identifies the input and output technology as CMOS and confirms that PLL operation is supported. Detailed electrical limits, supply-voltage operating range, output-to-output skew, input-to-output delay, operating-current consumption, and timing tolerances are not available in the supplied source data and therefore require confirmation against the original manufacturer datasheet before release to production.
Typical uses include processor and peripheral clock distribution, data-processing systems, communications equipment, test systems, and other high-speed digital platforms requiring one reference clock to feed four destinations. Because the ICS574M is listed as obsolete, engineers should confirm the available lifecycle status, remaining supply, and any formal last-time-buy or end-of-life schedule with the authorized distributor.
The primary design consideration is timing closure. Board traces must be length- and impedance-matched when the four outputs must arrive at their destinations within a tightly controlled interval. Decoupling, grounding, and output loading should follow the original datasheet guidance, while any substitute must be checked for pin assignment, supply voltage, frequency ceiling, skew, and output enable behavior rather than package name alone.
This product record combines verified distributor specifications, lifecycle evidence, package information, and practical replacement guidance. It distinguishes documented electrical facts from unavailable parameters, helping engineers identify whether the original ICS574M remains suitable or whether a redesign is required.
Drop-in alternatives for ICS574M — same package, pin-to-pin compatible. Different-package parts requiring PCB rework are excluded.
Variants in this series
Same-series models that are drop-in compatible with ICS574M (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, Device Type, Supply Voltage Range, Maximum Frequency, Category.
ICS501M
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs UnverifiedContact for price
View Datasheet →ICS502M
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs UnverifiedContact for price
View Datasheet →ICS542M
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs UnverifiedContact for price
View Datasheet →ICS551M
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs UnverifiedContact for price
View Datasheet →ICS651M
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs UnverifiedContact for price
View Datasheet →ICS574M Specifications
| Device Type | Fanout Buffer (Distribution), Zero Delay Buffer IC |
| Maximum Frequency | 160 MHz |
| Number of Circuits | 1 |
| Input-to-Output Ratio | 1:4 |
| Number of Clock Outputs | 4 |
| PLL | Yes |
| Input Logic Level | CMOS |
| Output Logic Level | CMOS |
| Operating Temperature Range | 0°C to 70°C |
| Package | 8-SOIC (0.154-inch pitch, 3.90 mm width) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Packaging Type | Tube/Rail |
| Lifecycle Status | Obsolete (EOL) |
ICS574M 8-soic (0.154-inch pitch, 3.90 mm width) Pin Configuration Guide
Pin configuration for ICS574M (8-soic (0.154-inch pitch, 3.90 mm width) package). Pin numbering, functions, and connection diagrams are defined in the manufacturer datasheet. Refer to it for the exact footprint and soldering guidelines.
No detailed pinout data available for ICS574M.
Refer to the datasheet for full pin configuration.
Typical Applications
ICS574M is suitable for 6 applications: Processor Clock Distribution, Data-Processing and Interface Timing, Communications Equipment, Industrial Control and Data Acquisition, Test and Measurement Systems, Legacy Digital Board Maintenance.
Processor Clock Distribution
The ICS574M can distribute one 160 MHz CMOS clock across four outputs for a processor or complex digital subsystem requiring coordinated clock arrival. Its 1:4 fanout reduces the need to cascade multiple distribution stages, while the PLL-based zero-delay architecture is intended to control timing skew between destinations. The buffer should sit close to the source clock so that input jitter is not compounded by long upstream traces. Board-level implementation must provide clean supply decoupling, a low-impedance ground reference, and matched output routing. Because the verified operating range is 0°C to 70°C and the device is obsolete, it is most appropriate for maintaining an existing commercial-temperature assembly rather than introducing it into a new high-volume platform.
Recommended
Data-Processing and Interface Timing
A single reference clock can drive four separate data-processing, memory, or high-speed interface blocks through the ICS574M's 1:4 fanout. Operating up to 160 MHz, the device is suited to legacy systems where controlled clock skew is more important than minimizing power. The four outputs reduce distribution-tree depth and can help prevent cumulative skew introduced by multiple cascaded buffers. Designers should keep each output branch short, account for the receiver's capacitive loading, and verify timing margins across temperature and supply tolerances. Because detailed input-to-output delay and output-to-output skew values were not supplied, the original datasheet and an oscilloscope-based validation are essential before using the ICS574M in a timing-critical new design.
Recommended
Communications Equipment
The ICS574M's four 160 MHz clock outputs can serve legacy communications equipment that needs one stable reference distributed among several digital channels. A PLL-based zero-delay buffer helps align channel clocks, while the 1:4 ratio provides a compact distribution solution in an 8-SOIC package. Implementation should isolate the clock source from noisy data and switching-converter regions, maintain a continuous ground plane, and use controlled-impedance routing where edges are fast. The commercial 0°C to 70°C specification limits unrestricted industrial deployment. System qualification should also consider oscillator stability, jitter accumulation, supply sensitivity, and the timing margin between the source and each destination.
Recommended
Industrial Control and Data Acquisition
The ICS574M can fan a common clock into four acquisition, conversion, or control channels in legacy industrial equipment. Its low-skew zero-delay architecture is useful when channels must sample related data within a defined time relationship. The 1:4 topology allows each output to feed a separate acquisition path without adding cascaded clock-buffer stages. In an industrial enclosure, however, the documented 0°C to 70°C range must be checked against ambient conditions and enclosure heating. Long cables and noisy switching regulators should remain isolated from the clock network. Since this part is obsolete, it is best suited to repair and continuation of existing systems; new measurement equipment should normally use a currently supported device with published jitter, skew, supply, and temperature limits.
Recommended
Test and Measurement Systems
The ICS574M can provide a common 160 MHz reference to multiple sections of a legacy test instrument, including acquisition, triggering, processing, and interface blocks. Four low-skew outputs can simplify synchronization while reducing the number of separate clock-routing stages. For bench and automated test equipment, trace geometry and output loading should be controlled because reflected edges or unequal loading can undermine the intended skew control. The device's 8-SOIC footprint simplifies replication across a family of instrument boards, but its obsolete lifecycle and commercial temperature rating require review. A replacement program should compare phase noise, jitter, deterministic skew, supply tolerance, and enable behavior using bench measurements in addition to datasheet review.
Recommended
Legacy Digital Board Maintenance
The ICS574M is particularly relevant to maintenance of legacy boards that contain a 160 MHz, 1:4 PLL-based zero-delay buffer in an 8-SOIC footprint. Its documented topology and four CMOS outputs make it possible to identify likely board locations and compare original procurement records. For repair, engineers should verify that the substitute has the same pin functions rather than assuming that every 8-SOIC clock buffer is interchangeable. Check supply voltage, input thresholds, feedback or reference connections, output-enable polarity, and timing limits against the original data. Residual inventory may contain mixed date codes, so procurement should include traceability and electrical screening. The 0°C to 70°C rating must also remain consistent with the equipment's internal thermal environment.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for ICS574M — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | ICS501M | ICS502M | ICS542M | ICS551M | ICS651M |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 8-SOIC | 8-SOIC | 8-SOIC | 8-SOIC | 8-SOIC | 8-SOIC |
| Brand | Renesas Electronics | Renesas Electronics | Renesas Electronics | Renesas Electronics | Renesas Electronics | Renesas Electronics |
Key Differentiators
- Documented 1:4 fanout at 160 MHz (vs ICS501M)
- Compact eight-pin clock-distribution implementation (vs ICS542M)
- Explicit commercial-temperature operating range (vs ICS551M)
Design Notes
Place the ICS574M close to the source-clock device and route all four output branches with matched geometry. If the outputs feed similar receiver loads and must arrive within a narrow timing window, use equal approximate trace lengths, consistent reference planes, and symmetrical via structures. Avoid routing clock signals beside high-current switching nodes. The verified data does not publish output-to-output skew, so compliance should be confirmed with time-domain measurements across temperature and supply conditions rather than inferred from trace length alone.
Follow the original manufacturer datasheet for supply voltage, decoupling, and grounding because those operating limits are not included in the supplied excerpts. Keep the PLL supply path short, provide local high-frequency bypass capacitance at the device, and maintain a low-impedance ground connection. Avoid routing the clock network near unregulated switching nodes. Since this is an obsolete 160 MHz CMOS clock buffer, verify power sequencing and supply tolerance in the original system rather than assuming compatibility with a newer family's electrical limits.
Do not assume that every Renesas ICS-family 8-SOIC buffer is pin-compatible with the ICS574M. The target is verified as a 1:4, 160 MHz, PLL-based zero-delay buffer, while the candidate family MPNs require direct comparison of numbered pins, feedback or reference connections, enable polarity, supply range, propagation delay, skew, and jitter. Confirm the complete pinout from the original datasheet and test the replacement on representative boards before production use.
Keep the device temperature within its documented 0°C to 70°C operating range and account for self-heating in sealed or densely populated equipment. The verified results do not provide power dissipation or thermal-resistance values, so thermal qualification cannot be completed numerically from the supplied data. Measure case or board temperature during worst-case clock activity and ambient conditions. For new designs, prefer a currently supported part with published thermal and timing data unless legacy continuity is essential.
Compliance Information
No verified RoHS, REACH, AEC-Q100, lead-free, halogen-free, or conflict-minerals declarations were included in the supplied results. The obsolete commercial-temperature ICS574M is not to be treated as automotive-qualified without an explicit qualification record.
