FAQ

• What is a crystal oscillator?

  A crystal oscillator is an electronic oscillator circuit that uses the mechanical resonance of a vibrating crystal of piezoelectric material to create an electrical signal with a precise frequency.

• How does a crystal oscillator work?

  A crystal oscillator works by applying an electrical signal to a piezoelectric crystal, causing it to vibrate at its natural resonant frequency. This vibration generates a stable and precise oscillating signal.

• What materials are commonly used for the crystal in a crystal oscillator?

  Quartz is the most commonly used material for the crystal in a crystal oscillator due to its excellent piezoelectric properties and stability.

• What are the main applications of crystal oscillators?

  Crystal oscillators are used in a wide range of applications, including clocks and watches, radios, computers, microcontrollers, and other electronic devices that require precise timing.

• What is the difference between a crystal oscillator and a ceramic resonator?

  A crystal oscillator uses a quartz crystal for frequency stability, offering higher precision and stability compared to a ceramic resonator, which uses a ceramic material and is generally less accurate and stable.

• How is the frequency of a crystal oscillator determined?

  The frequency of a crystal oscillator is determined by the physical dimensions and the cut of the quartz crystal. The specific shape and size of the crystal define its resonant frequency.