INDUSTRY COMPONENT

Quartz Crystal

Quartz crystal is a piezoelectric component that provides precise frequency control and timing signals in electronic circuits.

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
ParameterTypical rangeNotes & selection driver
ESR10 Ω to 100 Ω
Aging Rate<5 ppm/year
Drive Level10 μW to 100 μW
Frequency Range1 kHz to 200 MHz
Load Capacitance8 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

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.

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

Manufacturers of Quartz Crystal

3 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.

Huixun Tech
Hebei, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
SJK Crystal
Shenzhen, Guangdong, CN
Also makes: Crystal Oscillator
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
WTL International Limited
Hong Kong, CN
Also makes: Crystal Oscillator
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources

Manufacturer listings support early research and capability understanding. They are not certification, ranking, or transaction guarantees.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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.

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.

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.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records. See the editorial policy.

Preliminary Technical Classification
This page supports structured research, RFQ preparation, and supplier evaluation. It does not replace buyer-led supplier qualification, standards review, or technical approval.

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