What Does an Oscillator Do?
The purpose of an oscillator is to mechanically generate a regular oscillatory signal or current. They are often utilised in the operation of audio and radio systems, and do not rely on anything other than DC input to operate. In aerospace manufacturing and defence systems, this technology is regularly utilised to maintain a stable and consistent means of communication, navigation or tracking, so its application is clear when it comes to the performance and safety of aircraft and other means of transport that are likely to exit and enter fields of signal throughout a journey, as well as the guidance and tracking of missiles and other travelling military devices.
It is vital to maintain contact and communication with any craft and to be able to track its whereabouts without reliance on outside sources of power or unreliable networks, so without oscillators, air and sea transport, plus the development of sophisticated defence systems, would be virtually impossible.
Types of Oscillator
There are numerous varieties of oscillator, each designed for its own individual specialist application. See below for some examples of the main kinds provided by Euroquartz.
Sine Wave Crystal Oscillator
A sine wave crystal oscillator, such as the high performance OC30E12S model, maintains a steady amplitude that is pure in form and requires very little power to function effectively, offering improved safety, lower energy use and a precise frequency. Sine wave options are best for low phase noise.
This particular dual-in-line model involves a 12 volt supply and features a SC-Cut crystal, producing a OCXO sine wave output of +3dBm into 50 Ohms.
Hybrid Crystal Oscillator
This miniature surface mounted oscillator unit type is capable of achieving close tolerance frequency calibration and high stability over a wide temperature range. It’s also shock resistant and CMOS/TTL compatible, and produces very low EMI emission. Multiple additional features are available on request.
The model’s supply is up to 5 volts, and its frequency range is between 200.0kHz and 220.0MHz.
Clock Oscillator
Perfect for higher frequencies, this particular clock oscillator boasts a range of 125MHz to 200MHz. It’s ideal for purposes that require considerable power conservation and, to add to its versatility, it features a high Q fundamental crystal with a low jitter multiplier circuit, reducing phase jitter to just 2.3pS typical. Its supply voltage is 3.3V.
There are a wide variety of other specialist oscillator units available from Euroquartz, so, in order to explore your options, simply browse our products today.
If you have any queries about a product, you can contact our experts today on 01460 230000 or fill in our handy online contact form, and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can. Alternatively, for definitions of any terminology you are unsure of, simply take a look at our helpful online glossary here.
Euroquartz has been approved by the United Kingdom Accreditation Service and its products are AS9100 certified, RoHS compliant and Citation approved for health and safety.
