ASEMPC-27.000MHZ-T3

Oscillators

Oscillators are widely used in radio frequency applications because they generally have high stability of output frequency and low phase noise. Oscillators can be divided into two categories: active oscillators that rely on active elements, among them are crystal oscillator, VCO, etc., and passive oscillators such as LC oscillators. Here, we will focus on one of active oscillator, ASEMPC-27.000MHZ-T3.

Application Fields of ASEMPC-27.000MHZ-T3

ASEMPC-27.000MHZ-T3 is a Mini-Circuits’s low phase noise XOC XO intended for cable TV and broadband applications. It features tightly controlled frequency stability over a wide temperature range and good phase noise performance. With extremely low noise floor, wide tuning range and excellent frequency stability, the 27.000MHz oscillator is suitable for IF, Quadrature LO, upconversion and downconversion aplications. It is also easy to integrate into existing systems and saving board space.

Working Principle of ASEMPC-27.000MHZ-T3

The ASEMPC-27.000MHZ-T3 is an active oscillator built around an AT-cut crystal, which is basically a piezoelectric material. To generate an appropriate frequency, the property of crystals is alternately affected by a constant alternating electric current and a surrounding electric field. The resulting mechanical vibration of the crystal is inversely proportional to its size, allowing us to obtain various frequencies from the same crystalline material depending on its dimensions. The frequency of oscillation is then converted to an electrical signal using the crystal\'s resonance property.

The circuit comprises of a Colpitts oscillator, which uses transistors to provide electrical power to the crystal to run the oscillations. To start the oscillations, this active element provides a base signal to the crystal and, as the oscillator runs, keeps the crystal in its oscillation mode until the circuit is shut down or the crystal is removed. Furthermore, the circuitry is designed to allow for frequency control. Thus, the frequency can be adjusted through a voltage-controlled oscillator.

Conclusion

ASEMPC-27.000MHZ-T3 is an active oscillator based on AT-cut crystal with excellent phase noise performance. The wide tuning range and excellent frequency stability make it suitable for a wide range of applications, such as IF, Quadrature LO, upconversion and downconversion. In addition, its circuit structure allows for frequency control, which makes it an ideal solution for cable TV and broadband applications.