Why PLL better than VCO?

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1134161

2026-03-12 14:10

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A PLL is different than a VCO. Each has its own use.

Actually a PLL (Phase Locked Loop) contains a VCO (Voltage controlled oscillator).

A VCO is an oscillator whose frequency is related to an input voltage. You can use it when you need a varying frequency that is controlled by a varying voltage. But it is not great at outputting a consistant exact voltage because it is very sensitive to its environment (e.g. temperature).

A PLL will "lock" its output frequency to some input frequency. So it can oscillate at a frequency that is controlled by an input oscillator. Not too useful if the output frequency is the same as the input. But the output frequency can be divided before it is compared to the input. This allows the output frequency to be higher (some multiple of) the input frequency. Once a PLL is "locked on" to an input frequency it can be very stable.

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