35.6.2.3 Clock Generation and Selection

For both synchronous and asynchronous modes, the clock used for shifting and sampling data can be generated internally by the SERCOM baud-rate generator or supplied externally through the XCK line.

The synchronous mode is selected by writing a '1' to the Communication Mode bit in the Control A register (CTRLA.CMODE), the asynchronous mode is selected by writing a zero to CTRLA.CMODE.

The internal clock source is selected by writing 0x1 to the Operation Mode bit field in the Control A register (CTRLA.MODE), the external clock source is selected by writing 0x0 to CTRLA.MODE.

The SERCOM baud-rate generator is configured as in the figure below.

In asynchronous mode (CTRLA.CMODE=0), the 16-bit Baud register value is used.

In synchronous mode (CTRLA.CMODE=1), the eight LSBs of the Baud register are used. Refer to Clock Generation – Baud-Rate Generator for details on configuring the baud rate.