Crystals, Oscillators, Resonators

About Crystals, Oscillators, Resonators

Crystals, oscillators and resonators provide stable frequency references and clock sources for digital, communication, control and timing circuits. The Antrex category includes Crystals, Oscillators, Programmable Oscillators and Resonators. Crystals and resonators are passive frequency-selective devices that operate with an external oscillator circuit, while oscillators integrate the resonant element and active circuitry to provide a ready-to-use clock output. Programmable oscillators add configurable output frequency or other timing parameters, making them useful for prototyping, flexible production and multi-platform designs.

Choose the subcategory according to whether the circuit needs a passive resonator or a complete clock source. For crystals, verify nominal frequency, frequency tolerance, frequency stability, load capacitance, ESR, drive level, shunt capacitance, operating mode and package. Resonators should be matched by center frequency, tolerance, built-in capacitance where applicable, temperature behavior and oscillator-circuit compatibility. For oscillators, confirm output frequency, supply voltage, output logic such as CMOS, LVDS, LVPECL or other formats, frequency stability, phase noise or jitter, startup time, enable/disable behavior and load. Programmable oscillators also require confirmation of programming method, allowable frequency range, output format and whether the device is factory-programmed or field-configurable. Across all timing products, check package, pinout, operating temperature, aging, shock/vibration, startup margin and lifecycle status. Replacement parts should be matched by frequency performance, load conditions, output standard, electrical levels and oscillator architecture rather than by nominal frequency and package size alone.