Introducing PFM: Compact high-resolution phase and frequency measurement for ultra-stable clock signals

With PFM, Cycle introduces a compact new phase/frequency meter module for the characterization and comparison of ultra-stable atomic clock signals in advanced timing applications.

Cycle is expanding its portfolio for precision timing applications with the introduction of PFM, a compact new phase/frequency meter module developed for the characterization and comparison of ultra-stable atomic clock signals.

PFM is designed for demanding environments where precise signal analysis is essential. The module enables real-time measurement of phase, frequency, and stability across a continuous 5 MHz to 100 MHz input frequency range, making it well suited for high-performance clock and timing systems.

At the core of PFM is fully digital FPGA-based architecture. Each input signal is sampled directly and processed digitally, eliminating the need for analog mixing. This enables precise and flexible signal comparison in a compact, integration-ready format. With four SMA input channels and six virtual channels, PFM supports real-time comparison between selected input pairs, including non-harmonically related frequencies through software-defined channel pairing.

PFM provides phase, frequency, and Allan deviation (ADEV) data with a 1-second measurement rate, supporting detailed diagnostics and validation in timing-critical applications. Typical use cases include atomic clock diagnostics, GNSS and satellite ground-segment timing diagnostics, UTC laboratory clock comparison and validation, frequency and timing system monitoring, as well as radio astronomy and VLBI timing backends.

Designed as a 3U Eurocard plug-in module for 19-inch rack-mounted systems, PFM is built for seamless OEM integration. The module interfaces via EPICS over TCP/IP, enabling straightforward deployment in laboratory, infrastructure, and system-level environments. The underlying technology is also based on solutions already field-proven in operational frequency and timing systems deployed in deep-space ground-station infrastructures.

With PFM, Cycle brings together compact integration, digital measurement architecture, and high-resolution timing analysis in a module built for the next generation of frequency and timing systems.

Learn more about PFM and get in contact with our team to discuss your application.