Clock Source: Frequency Range 1 kHz to 100 MHz

Component Specifications

Definition

A clock source is an essential electronic component within timer/counter modules that produces stable, periodic electrical signals used as timing references. In industrial applications, it ensures accurate timekeeping, synchronization of operations, and precise measurement intervals. Clock sources can be implemented using various technologies including crystal oscillators (XO), ceramic resonators, or integrated oscillator circuits, each offering different levels of stability, accuracy, and environmental tolerance.

Working Principle

Clock sources operate by converting electrical energy into precise periodic signals through electromechanical resonance (in crystal oscillators) or electronic oscillation circuits. Crystal-based clock sources utilize the piezoelectric effect where an applied voltage causes a quartz crystal to vibrate at its natural resonant frequency, generating stable oscillations. These oscillations are then amplified and shaped into square wave signals suitable for digital timing applications. The frequency stability is maintained through temperature compensation (TCXO) or oven-controlled (OCXO) mechanisms in precision applications.

Materials

Quartz crystal (SiO₂) with silver or gold electrodes for crystal oscillators; ceramic piezoelectric materials for resonators; silicon semiconductor materials for integrated oscillator circuits; epoxy or ceramic packaging materials; copper or gold bonding wires; lead-free solder (RoHS compliant).

Technical Parameters

Parameter	Typical range	Notes & selection driver
Aging Rate	±1 ppm/year to ±5 ppm/year
Output Type	CMOS, TTL, LVDS, HCMOS
Phase Noise	-100 dBc/Hz to -150 dBc/Hz at 10 kHz offset
Rise/Fall Time	5 ns to 20 ns
Supply Voltage	1.8V to 5.5V DC
Frequency Range	1 kHz to 100 MHz
Load Capacitance	12 pF to 32 pF
Current Consumption	1 mA to 20 mA
Frequency Stability	±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, MIL-PRF-55310, JIS C6701

Parent Products

This component is used in the following industrial products

Timer/Counter Module

An electronic module that generates precise timing signals and counts events within timing control systems.

View Product Details

Engineering Analysis

Risks & Mitigation

Frequency drift due to temperature variations
Mechanical failure from vibration or shock
Electromagnetic interference affecting signal integrity
Aging causing gradual frequency shift
Power supply fluctuations impacting stability

FMEA Triads

Trigger: Crystal fracture due to mechanical shock or vibration
Failure: Complete loss of timing signal or erratic frequency output
Mitigation: Implement shock-absorbing mounting, use ruggedized packaging, select components with higher shock resistance ratings

Trigger: Temperature extremes beyond specified operating range
Failure: Frequency deviation beyond acceptable limits, timing errors in control systems
Mitigation: Select TCXO or OCXO for critical applications, implement temperature monitoring, provide thermal management in enclosure design

Trigger: Electromagnetic interference from nearby power equipment
Failure: Signal jitter, phase noise increase, synchronization errors
Mitigation: Implement proper shielding, use differential signaling (LVDS), maintain separation from noise sources, add filtering circuits

Industrial Ecosystem

Compatible With

Typical Suppliers & Equivalents

Compliance & Inspection

Tolerance

Frequency tolerance: ±10 ppm to ±100 ppm depending on grade; Temperature stability: ±0.5 ppm/°C to ±10 ppm/°C; Aging: ±1 ppm/year to ±5 ppm/year

Test Method

Frequency measurement using high-precision frequency counter; Temperature cycling tests per IEC 60068-2-14; Vibration testing per IEC 60068-2-6; Shock testing per IEC 60068-2-27; Long-term stability monitoring over 1000+ hours

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 Clock Source

Manufacturer profiles associated with Clock Source.

Sourcing Clock Source from China?

Tell us your specification and target quantity — we will match it against manufacturer records and come back with the factories that fit.

Request manufacturers We manufacture this

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

Compiled and source-reviewed by the CNFX editorial team. Each manufacturer above links to the page on that company's own website where the product is listed, with the date we checked it. How we source and review

Related Components

Upper Tool (Punch)

Upper Tool (Punch) is the active forming component in metal plate bending machines that applies precise downward force to create bends in sheet metal.

Main Frame

The main frame is the primary structural component of a hydraulic press, providing rigidity and stability to withstand high compressive forces during metal forming operations.

Shaft Bearing

Precision component supporting rotating shafts in vibration motors to reduce friction and maintain alignment.

Seal Groove

Precision-machined groove in aluminum bearing housings designed to accommodate sealing elements for fluid containment and contamination prevention.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a crystal oscillator and a ceramic resonator as clock sources?

Crystal oscillators offer higher frequency stability (typically ±10-100 ppm) and better temperature performance but are more expensive. Ceramic resonators are less stable (±0.5%) but more cost-effective and robust against mechanical shock. Crystal oscillators are preferred for precision timing applications while ceramic resonators suit cost-sensitive applications with moderate accuracy requirements.

How does temperature affect clock source accuracy?

Temperature variations cause frequency drift in clock sources. Standard crystal oscillators experience ±10-100 ppm variation across industrial temperature ranges. Temperature-compensated crystal oscillators (TCXO) reduce this to ±0.5-5 ppm, while oven-controlled crystal oscillators (OCXO) achieve ±0.001-0.1 ppm stability through constant temperature maintenance.

What maintenance is required for industrial clock sources?

Clock sources typically require minimal maintenance as they are solid-state components. Regular monitoring of timing accuracy against system requirements is recommended. Replacement may be needed after 5-10 years due to aging effects (1-5 ppm/year drift). Environmental protection from excessive vibration, moisture, and electromagnetic interference extends operational life.

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.

Clock Source