INDUSTRY COMPONENT

Quartz Crystal

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

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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
  • 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
Standards
IEC 60122-1, IEC 60444, MIL-PRF-3098

Industry Taxonomies & Aliases

Commonly used trade names and technical identifiers for Quartz Crystal.

quartz crystal crystal oscillator timing component frequency control piezoelectric electronic timing clock oscillator crystal resonator Quartz Crystal in Computer, Electronic and Optical Product Manufacturing

Parent Products

This component is used in the following industrial products

Clock Oscillator

Electronic component that generates precise timing signals for digital circuits.

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RF Oscillator

Electronic circuit that generates a continuous radio frequency signal for transmission

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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

Interchangeable Parts

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

Buyer Feedback

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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.

Can I contact factories directly?

Yes, each factory profile provides direct contact information.

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Quantizer Quartz Crystal Blank