[time-nuts] GPSDO PLL Loop Filter Values

[Bruce Griffiths]

Joe McElvenney wrote:
> Hi,
>
> I'm cobbling together a very basic PLL GPSDO with components I have to
> hand which means I'm pushing my luck as far as the loop filter values
> are concerned.
>
> These are -
>
> N = 1000 (10kHz ref from a Jupiter-T),
>
> Kv = 27Hz/V (10MHz Motorola VC-TCXO),
>
> Kp = 0.4V/rad from a 74HCT9046 type-II PD with charge-pump.
>
> > From these I've worked out some values graphically and with a couple of
> apps I've found. They are an old DOS program by KD9JQ and a web one at -
> http://www.aubraux.com/design/pll-design-tool.php
>
> The first tells me I need some gain between the loop-filter and the VCO,
> the second (the third order active choice) seems (I think) to have the
> capacitor values the wrong way round.
>    
The recommended values for the third order loop are virtually guaranteed 
to produce an oscillating loop.
A true 3rd order loop uses a pair of cascaded integrators with 
stabilising zeros (resistor in series with each integrator feedback 
capacitor).
Third order lops are not unconditionally stable like a 2nd order loop.
It may be best to start with a second order loop for this reason.
> My own efforts suggest I can get away with the values I've calculated
> but with a lower loop bandwidth and longer lock-up time than I'd like.
> The op-amp I'll be using for the filter, or extra DC gain for the VCO,
> will be an OPA-703.
>
> How badly would sticking a gain block between the filter and the VCO
> screw things up noise-wise (if at all)? Any thoughts on getting out of
> the 'low resource' hole I've dug would also be much appreciated. BTW,
> I'm not pushing any envelopes and my previous projects, with different
> components, have worked out reasonably well
>
>    
It depends on the required gain.
If you need gain with a passive filter you may as well use an active filter.
One thing to watch for is exceeding the EFC voltage limits.
Just ensure that the TCXO isn't damaged should this occur.
A series resistor (between the amplifier output and THE TCXO VFC input) 
and diode clamps may be required.
> Cheers - Joe G3LLV
>
>    
Bruce