Leading Crystal Oscillator Manufacturers of OCXO, TCXO, VCXO, EMXO

Crystal oscillators are critical components in electronic devices, providing precise and stable frequency signals for a wide range of applications, from communication systems to industrial equipment. Among the various types, Oven-Controlled Crystal Oscillators (OCXO), Temperature-Compensated Crystal Oscillators (TCXO), Voltage-Controlled Crystal Oscillators (VCXO), and Enhanced Microprocessor Crystal Oscillators (EMXO) are widely used for their specialized functions in frequency control. Leading manufacturers of these oscillators produce highly reliable, performance driven solutions to meet the demands of industries such as telecommunications, aerospace, and automotive, where frequency accuracy is paramount.

Applications

Crystal oscillators are used as reference oscillators for PLL circuits used in local oscillators and synthesizers. This device provides frequency stable output in most of the RF transceivers used in various RF and Wireless equipment. It is also used as a stable reference frequency in test and measurement equipment such as Vector Signal Generators and Analyzers, requiring very accurate measurements.

The most commonly designed crystal oscillators cover frequencies in the MHz range. The most popular ones are the 10MHz and 100 MHz oscillators, used as reference frequencies. Crystal oscillators with high frequency stability and low phase noise are the best choice for buyers.

Generic Technical Specifications

When selecting crystal oscillators such as OCXO, TCXO, VCXO, and EMXO for a specific application, the following technical specifications are considered.

1. OCXO (Oven-Controlled Crystal Oscillator)

• Frequency Stability: Stability as low as $\pm 1$ ppb to $\pm 50$ ppb.
• Phase Noise: Low phase noise, often specified in dBc/Hz at different offsets.
• Aging: Long-term frequency drift, typically specified in ppb/year.
• Warm-up Time: The time taken for the oscillator to reach its stable operating frequency, usually a few minutes.
• Power Consumption: Typically higher than other oscillators due to the oven, ranging from a few hundred milliwatts to several watts.

2. TCXO (Temperature-Compensated Crystal Oscillator)

• Frequency Stability: Stability of $\pm 0.1$ ppm to $\pm 2.5$ ppm over the temperature range.
• Temperature Range: Operating temperature range, often from -40°C to +85°C.
• Phase Noise: Lower than general oscillators but higher than OCXO.
• Supply Voltage: Typical values range from 1.8V to 3.3V.
• Size/Form Factor: TCXOs come in miniature sizes (e.g., 3.2 mm × 2.5 mm).

3. VCXO (Voltage-Controlled Crystal Oscillator)

• Frequency Tuning Range: Often expressed in ppm (e.g., $\pm 50$ ppm).
• Control Voltage: The range of the control voltage (typically 0V to 5V or 0V to 3.3V). The control voltage adjusts the output frequency, so it’s crucial for compatibility with control circuits.
• Phase Noise: Low phase noise performance, specified in dBc/Hz.
• Frequency Stability: Typically $\pm 10$ ppm to $\pm 50$ ppm.
• Output Waveform: Types include LVPECL, LVCMOS, LVDS.

4. EMXO (Enhanced Microprocessor Crystal Oscillator)

• Frequency Stability: Typically within $\pm 50$ ppb to $\pm 100$ ppb. Importance: Higher stability than general oscillators, combining the benefits of TCXO and OCXO.
• Power Consumption: Lower than traditional OCXO, typically a few milliwatts.
• Size/Form Factor: Compact form factor compared to OCXO.
• Phase Noise: Lower value; comparable to OCXO but at a reduced power consumption.
• Frequency Range: Typically from 10 MHz to 100 MHz.

Additional Specifications for All Types

• Output Frequency: Ranges from a few MHz to several GHz depending on the type and model. Ensure the oscillator matches the required operating frequency for your application.
• Output Type: Common output types include LVCMOS, LVDS, and LVPECL, each suited to different applications and loads.
• Supply Voltage: Ensure compatibility with system power requirements, with typical values ranging from 1.8V to 5V.
• Load Capacitance: The load capacitance (typically measured in pF) affects the oscillator’s ability to drive circuits.

Manufacturers of Crystal Oscillators

Summary

In conclusion, crystal oscillator manufacturers like Epson, TXC Corporation, Rakon and Abracon are at the forefront of innovation, supplying OCXO, TCXO, VCXO, and EMXO to industries requiring precise timing and stability. Their expertise in producing high-performance oscillators ensures that critical applications, from communication infrastructure to navigation systems, operate with the highest degree of accuracy and reliability. As technological advancements continue, these manufacturers remain essential to maintaining the precision and performance demanded by today’s complex electronic systems.