Question

Why do we use a crystal oscillator?

Answer 1

Crystal oscillator:

1. A crystal oscillator is an electronic circuit that uses a piezoelectric (generates AC voltage when undergoes mechanical vibrations) crystal.
2. It works on the principle of inverse piezoelectric effect, which means that when an AC voltage is applied to it, it vibrates at its natural frequency.
3. The diagram below represents a crystal oscillator, an electronic symbol for piezoelectric crystal resonator that consists of 2 metalized electrodes and a quartz crystal, and an equivalent circuit diagram of quartz crystal in an electronic oscillator with a resistor, an inductor, and 2 connected capacitors.

Uses of Crystal oscillator:

1. They are used in monochrome TV transmitters to generate the required picture frequency.
2. They are used in digital integrated circuits as they provide stable clock signals.
3. They are used in some particular applications because they can create electric signals within the given frequency range.

Hence, crystal oscillators are used for high-frequency reference.