Quartz oscillators - precision for almost 100 years

A quartz oscillator is a frequency-generating component that uses a quartz crystal to provide a very stable clock frequency. It is based on the reverse piezo effect, which causes the quartz crystal to oscillate at a defined frequency when electrically excited. Quartz oscillators are indispensable when digital systems have to work synchronously. They are used in smartphones, computers, cars, satellites and communication technology, among other things. They also ensure reliable and reproducible frequencies in research and in precise time reference systems.

The most important types include standard XO, TCXO, VCXO, OCXO and LPXO. A standard quartz oscillator is the cost-effective basic solution for simple applications, while a TCXO offers significantly greater stability in the event of temperature fluctuations thanks to temperature compensation. A VCXO can be finely adjusted via an external voltage and is therefore particularly suitable for synchronization tasks. OCXOs achieve the highest precision due to a constant operating temperature and are used where maximum accuracy is required. LPXOs offer good frequency stability with low power consumption and are more accurate than SPXOs.

The accuracy of a quartz oscillator depends heavily on its design and area of application. An OCXO offers the highest accuracy and achieves values of up to around ±0.01 ppm. Standard XOs are typically around ±25 ppm and are therefore sufficient for many general applications. TCXOs are specially designed for stable frequencies over temperature and achieve around ±0.5 ppm in the range from -40 to +85 °C. LPXOs typically have a frequency stability of ±5 to ±10 ppm at -40 to +85 °C and combine accuracy with low power consumption.

A TCXO is the right choice when high frequency stability is required despite changing ambient temperatures. A VCXO is particularly suitable when the frequency needs to be readjusted during operation, for example for synchronization tasks in communication systems. An OCXO is ideal for applications with the highest demands on precision and long-term stability. Thanks to its oven-stabilized temperature control, it achieves the best accuracy of the quartz oscillator types mentioned. The selection should therefore always be based on accuracy, temperature behavior, controllability and energy requirements.

MEMS oscillators are particularly impressive due to their small design and low energy consumption. This makes them fundamentally interesting for compact electronic systems. Compared to classic quartz oscillators, however, they are very expensive and are only available in plastic housings. According to the page content, there are several disadvantages to be considered when using MEMS oscillators compared to quartz oscillators. For many industrial and precision-critical applications, quartz oscillators therefore remain the preferred solution.

PETERMANN-TECHNIK stands for precision in frequency technology and addresses industrial applications with high demands on stability and reliability. The company positions itself with frequency experts who provide support in the selection of suitable crystal oscillators for different areas of application. Whether standard XO, TCXO, VCXO, OCXO or LPXO, the technical classification of the various oscillator types demonstrates a clear understanding of application-specific requirements. For customers from the electronics, communications, automotive or research sectors, this is an important advantage when selecting components. Personal advice by telephone, e-mail or call-back service creates additional trust and facilitates rapid project coordination.