Crystal Resonator: Frequency Range 1 kHz to 200 MHz

Component Specifications

Definition

A crystal resonator is an electronic component that utilizes the piezoelectric properties of quartz crystals to create stable and accurate oscillations at specific frequencies. It consists of a precisely cut quartz crystal wafer mounted between electrodes within a hermetically sealed package. When an electric field is applied, the crystal vibrates at its natural resonant frequency determined by its physical dimensions and cut orientation, providing exceptional frequency stability and low phase noise for timing and frequency control applications.

Working Principle

The crystal resonator operates on the piezoelectric effect where mechanical stress on the quartz crystal generates an electrical charge, and conversely, an applied electrical field causes mechanical deformation. When connected in an oscillator circuit, the crystal vibrates at its natural resonant frequency, creating a stable reference signal. The frequency is determined by the crystal's physical dimensions, cut angle, and temperature characteristics, with AT-cut crystals being most common for fundamental frequencies between 1-30 MHz.

Materials

Quartz crystal (SiO₂) with specific cut orientation (typically AT-cut for fundamental mode), silver or gold electrodes, Kovar or ceramic housing, hermetic sealing materials (glass or metal), lead frames (Alloy 42 or copper), and protective coatings.

Technical Parameters

Parameter	Typical range	Notes & selection driver
Aging Rate	±3 ppm/year to ±10 ppm/year
Drive Level	10 μW to 100 μW
Package Type	HC-49/S, HC-49/U, SMD (3225, 2520, 2016)
Frequency Range	1 kHz to 200 MHz
Load Capacitance	8 pF to 32 pF
Frequency Stability	±10 ppm to ±50 ppm over operating temperature
Frequency Tolerance	±10 ppm to ±100 ppm
Operating Temperature	-40°C to +85°C (standard), -55°C to +125°C (extended)
ESR (Equivalent Series Resistance)	40 Ω to 100 Ω

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Standards

IEC 60122-1, IEC 60444, MIL-PRF-3098, JIS C6701

Parent Products

This component is used in the following industrial products

Local Oscillator (LO)

A stable frequency source used in transmitters to generate the carrier signal for modulation.

View Product Details

Local Oscillator

Electronic circuit that generates a stable reference frequency signal for frequency conversion in demodulation systems.

View Product Details

Engineering Analysis

Risks & Mitigation

Frequency drift due to temperature variations
Mechanical shock damage to crystal structure
Contamination from improper sealing
ESD damage during handling
Excessive drive level causing frequency shift or damage

FMEA Triads

Trigger: Mechanical stress from improper mounting
Failure: Frequency shift or complete failure
Mitigation: Use proper mounting techniques with stress relief, follow manufacturer's recommended soldering profiles, and avoid mechanical stress on package

Trigger: Excessive drive level
Failure: Frequency instability and accelerated aging
Mitigation: Design oscillator circuit with appropriate gain margin, monitor drive level during testing, and follow manufacturer's maximum drive specifications

Trigger: Hermetic seal failure
Failure: Contamination leading to frequency drift and increased aging
Mitigation: Use proper sealing materials and processes, conduct hermeticity testing, and ensure clean manufacturing environment

Industrial Ecosystem

Compatible With

Typical Suppliers & Equivalents

Compliance & Inspection

Tolerance

Frequency tolerance typically ±10 ppm to ±100 ppm at 25°C, temperature stability ±10 ppm to ±50 ppm over operating range

Test Method

Frequency measurement using frequency counter with high stability reference, impedance analysis for ESR and motional parameters, temperature cycling tests, aging tests over specified periods, hermeticity testing per MIL-STD-883

Procurement Evaluation Criteria

A practical evidence checklist for RFQ preparation and supplier evaluation.

Technical documentation

Request current drawings, revision history, and a signed specification sheet.

Manufacturing capability

Verify equipment lists, process limits, capacity, and representative production evidence.

Inspection readiness

Confirm test methods, calibrated equipment, sampling plans, and traceable reports.

Supplier transparency

Check the legal entity, factory address, ownership, certifications, and direct contacts.

CNFX does not score or rank suppliers. Buyers must verify all claims and documents with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Manufacturers of Crystal Resonator

7 companies list this product among what they make. Company figures are quoted from each company's own website; every card states where the relationship came from.

CY Wireless Technology Limited

Shenzhen, Guangdong, CN

Also makes: Remote Control, Transceiver Module, Transceiver IC