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The Quintessential Timing Component: An Overview of Crystal Oscillators (Xtal)
Timing is everything when it comes to electronics. Behind the scenes of virtually every electronic device is a clock generating precision timing signals to keep systems synchronized. At the heart of these clocks are crystal oscillators, piezoelectric crystals that vibrate at an extremely consistent frequency when voltage is applied. Offering accuracy and stability far exceeding other options, the crystal oscillator or Xtal remains the quintessential timing component for electronics.
What is a Crystal Oscillator?
A crystal oscillator contains a piezoelectric crystal, typically quartz, cut to vibrate at a specific resonant frequency when voltage is applied. This self-oscillating property creates an electrical signal with highly precise periodicity used for timing. Along with capacitors and amplifiers that sustain oscillation, the crystal forms an oscillator circuit with excellent frequency stability and low phase noise.
Crystal Properties and Frequency Control
Quartz crystals exhibit piezoelectricity – when compressed by an electric field they deform to produce a voltage. The spring-like elasticity of the quartz causes it to oscillate at a precise resonant frequency dependent on the cut and dimensions of the crystal. This frequency is inherently stable, changing little with temperature due to the low coefficient of expansion of quartz.
The resonance property allows quartz crystals to control frequency with a precision unmatched by other timing technologies like RC oscillators. Frequency stabilities of +/-10 ppm are routine.
Major Applications of Crystal Oscillators
The exceptional accuracy and stability of crystal oscillators make them ideal for many electronics applications:
- Computer clocks – CPUs rely on crystal clocks for synchronization and timing.
- Communications – Wireless networks use crystals for carrier frequency generation and timing.
- Consumer devices – Clocks, watches, and appliances integrate crystal timers.
- Automotive – Engine control units and infotainment depend on crystal stability.
- Instrumentation – Oscilloscopes, frequency counters, and lab equipment need precision crystals.
- Aerospace/Defense – Guidance systems require extremely accurate crystal clocks.
In short, crystal oscillators provide the heartbeat for nearly all modern electronics.
Benefits of Prestonics Crystal Oscillators
Prestonics offers a broad selection of high-performance crystal oscillators for industrial, military, aerospace, telecom, automotive, and instrumentation applications.
Our Xtals are known for excellent frequency stability, low phase noise, wide operating temperatures, and ruggedness. Small surface mount packaging ensures easy integration into space-constrained designs.
For mission-critical timing, Prestonics Xtals deliver unparalleled lifetime consistency and reliability. Our accelerated lifecycle testing guarantees at least 100,000 hours of operation. An extensive inventory enables shipping of popular frequencies from stock.
Customization of frequency, stability, tolerances, outputs, and packaging is also available for specialized applications. For your next design, turn to Prestonics for the crystals to keep it running on time.
What parameters affect crystal oscillator frequency stability?
Cut angle, crystal quality, temperature, drive level, and aging determine medium and long-term frequency stability.
How are different crystal oscillator frequencies produced?
Altering quartz thickness via grinding controls the resonant frequency based on inverse thickness.
What are the tradeoffs between crystal oscillators and MEMS oscillators?
Crystals offer better stability and lower phase noise but are larger and more costly than emerging MEMS options.
What are key specs for selecting a crystal oscillator?
Frequency stability, tolerance, operating temperature range, supply voltage, output type, drift, phase noise, and aging are key parameters.
