Crystals Oscillators Resonators

Crystals, oscillators, and resonators provide precise frequency references and clock signals — the heartbeat of every digital system. This category includes quartz crystals (MHz, kHz tuning fork), MEMS oscillators, TCXO (temperature-compensated), OCXO (oven-controlled), VCXO (voltage-controlled), silicon oscillators, and ceramic resonators. Key parameters: nominal frequency, frequency tolerance/stability (ppm), load capacitance, drive level, phase noise/jitter (for high-speed serial links), aging rate, and package (HC-49, SMD 1.6×1.2mm to 7.0×5.0mm). MEMS oscillators offer advantages in shock/vibration resistance and fast startup time. For Ethernet/PCIe/USB applications, low-jitter differential oscillators (LVDS/LVPECL/HCSL) are critical for signal integrity. Popular manufacturers: Epson, NDK, TXC, SiTime, Abracon, ECS Inc., Kyocera, and Microchip.