Quartz Crystal: Frequency Range 1 kHz to 200 MHz

Q: What determines the frequency of a quartz crystal?

The frequency is primarily determined by the physical dimensions (thickness) and cut orientation of the quartz blank. Thinner crystals vibrate at higher frequencies.

Q: Why is quartz used instead of other materials?

Quartz has excellent piezoelectric properties, high Q factor (low energy loss), temperature stability, and can be manufactured with precise frequency characteristics.

Q: What is the difference between a crystal and an oscillator?

A crystal is the piezoelectric component that determines frequency, while an oscillator includes the crystal plus supporting circuitry to generate a complete clock signal.

Component Specifications

Definition

A quartz crystal is a precisely cut piece of quartz that exhibits the piezoelectric effect, generating a stable electrical signal with a specific frequency when voltage is applied. It serves as the frequency-determining element in clock oscillators, providing accurate timing references for digital systems, microprocessors, and communication devices.

Working Principle

The quartz crystal operates on the piezoelectric principle where mechanical deformation generates electrical charge and vice versa. When an alternating voltage is applied across its electrodes, the crystal vibrates at its natural resonant frequency determined by its physical dimensions and cut orientation. This vibration creates a stable oscillating signal used for timing and frequency control.

Materials

Synthetic quartz (SiO₂) with purity >99.99%, typically AT-cut or SC-cut orientation, with silver or gold electrodes deposited on surfaces

Technical Parameters

Parameter	Typical range	Notes & selection driver
ESR	10 Ω to 100 Ω
Aging Rate	<5 ppm/year
Drive Level	10 μW to 100 μW
Frequency Range	1 kHz to 200 MHz
Load Capacitance	8 pF to 32 pF
Frequency Tolerance	±10 ppm to ±100 ppm
Operating Temperature	-40°C to +85°C

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

Parent Products

This component is used in the following industrial products

Clock Oscillator

Electronic component that generates precise timing signals for digital circuits.

View Product Details

RF Oscillator

Electronic circuit that generates a continuous radio frequency signal for transmission

View Product Details

Engineering Analysis

Risks & Mitigation

Frequency drift due to temperature changes
Mechanical shock damage
Contamination affecting performance
Overdriving causing crystal damage

FMEA Triads

Trigger: Excessive mechanical stress during assembly
Failure: Cracked quartz blank leading to frequency shift or complete failure
Mitigation: Implement controlled handling procedures, use proper mounting techniques, and conduct vibration testing

Trigger: Exposure to high humidity or contaminants
Failure: Electrode corrosion or contamination affecting frequency stability
Mitigation: Use hermetic sealing, maintain cleanroom conditions during manufacturing, and apply protective coatings

Trigger: Overdriving with excessive power
Failure: Crystal fracture or frequency instability due to excessive vibration amplitude
Mitigation: Design circuits with proper drive level control, implement current limiting, and specify maximum drive levels

Industrial Ecosystem

Compatible With

Typical Suppliers & Equivalents

Compliance & Inspection

Tolerance

Frequency tolerance typically ±10 ppm to ±50 ppm for industrial applications, ±2 ppm to ±10 ppm for precision applications

Test Method

Frequency measurement using frequency counter or network analyzer, temperature cycling tests (-40°C to +85°C), vibration testing per MIL-STD-202, aging tests at elevated temperatures

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.

Compare the published product scope and source details, then include your specifications and quantity in an enquiry.

Manufacturers of Quartz Crystal

9 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.

Changzhou Keneng Electronics Co., Ltd.

Jiangsu, CN

Also makes: Pressure Switch, Terminal Block, Film Capacitor and 3 more