Limitations of the classical phase-locked loop analysis

Nonlinear analysis of the classical phase-locked loop (PLL) is a challenging task. In classical engineering literature simplified mathematical models and simulation are widely used for its study. In this work the limitations of classical engineering phase-locked loop analysis are demonstrated, e.g., hidden oscillations, which can not be found by simulation, are discussed. It is shown that the use of simplified dynamical models and the application of simulation may lead to wrong conclusions concerning the operability of PLL-based circuits.