Understanding Quartz Crystals and Oscillators

Book excerpt: Quartz, unique in its chemical, electrical, mechanical, and thermal properties, is used as a frequency control element in applications where stability of frequency is an absolute necessity. Without crystal controlled transmission, radio and television would not be possible in their present form. The quartz crystals allow the individual channels in communication systems to be spaced closer together to make better use of one of most precious resources -- wireless bandwidth. This book describes the characteristics of the art of crystal oscillator design, including how to specify and select crystal oscillators. While presenting various varieties of crystal oscillators, this resource also provides you with useful MathCad and Genesys simulations.