Quartz & It's Uses as a Resonator in Timing Circuits - ECS Inc. International

If you’re asking “What is Quartz?” exactly? Quartz is a naturally occurring crystalline rock with a molecular structure of silicon and oxygen atoms in a continuous framework (SiO4 silicon–oxygen).

This structure gives Quartz very unique piezoelectric properties, these properties allow it to generate a very clean mechanical resonance or specific Frequency with exceedingly high levels of Q or Quality when a voltage is applied to it. Q is an electromechanical rating of energy loss. So having a Higher Q indicates good efficiency.

Quartz provides the resonant element for many of today’s crystals, oscillators & filters with unmatched performance. Quartz crystals can be cut into an infinite number of shapes and sizes depending on the required specifications and applications. But it does have its limitations. Quartz needs to retain a certain physical size in order to have structural integrity and still meet circuit electrical requirements.

When designing a Quartz Crystal blank there are several electrical and mechanical aspects that need to be taken in to consideration. In this Quartz Resonators video series we will discuss each one in detail, and how each affects the function of the clock. We will cover:

Resonance Frequency
Series Vs Parallel Resonance mode
Frequency Tolerance
Frequency Stability
Aging
Load Capacitance
Equivalent Series Resistance
Motional Inductance and Capacitance
Temperature calibration
Drive level
and Drive level Dependency

Once you understand these quartz parameters and how they relate to a crystal's performance, you will be able to successfully specify crystals for your application.

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Lenexa, KS 66219
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