Demystifying Crystal Oscillators

Oscillator circuits using quartz crystals as the frequency-controlling element are one the oldest basic RF circuits, dating aback the 1920s in vacuum tube designs. Today, they are more important that ever, but are now in IC form with the oscillator frequency "multiplied up" or "divided down" to synthesize a wide range of frequencies. Every RF/wireless device today controls its operating frequency with some form of a crystal oscillator circuit, and they also are the heart of clock functions used to control microprocessors and digital circuits. The book will introduce the basic concepts of crystal oscillator theory, describe their operation, and explore their various applications. Special attention will be given to environmental and operational parameters (such as keeping the crystal inside a temperature-controlled "oven" for increased frequency stability). In addition, there will be material on the use of crystal-controlled oscillators in embedded systems. *Introduces basic concepts of crystal oscillator theory. *Special attention given to environmental and operational parameters. *Includes guidelines for selecting the proper technology to accomplish the goal of the designer.