CE3390-16.384

Oscillators

The CE3390-16.384 oscillator is an integrated circuit designed to generate a highly accurate reference frequency of 16.384 MHz. It uses a low-current mode to consume less power, about 3 mA, while ensuring that the frequency generated is stable to within 20 parts per million (ppm).

Application fields

The CE3390-16.384 is used mainly in broadcast, synchronous systems involving communications between two or more computers, and for digital clock systems that depend upon precise and accurate frequencies. It is also used in avionics, computer architecture, cellular systems, CDMA base station systems, EV-DO/UMTS systems, and other timing-dependent applications.

Working principle

The CE3390-16.384 oscillator utilizes an important technology - Temperature Compensated Crystal Oscillator (TCXO). This technology allows the frequency output to remain stable despite the thermal changes of the oscillator’s environment. The time frequency standard utilizes a Quartz Crystal, an amplifier and temperature detected oscillator. The output frequency of the oscillator is determined by predefined quartz crystal value and the temperature compensated oscillator generates a stable reference frequency.

The quartz crystal in the oscillator is a precise resonating device which contains a piezoelectric material. The quartz crystal is vibrated by an alternating electric current and will oscillate at a frequency determined by its crystal structure. The quartz crystal’s physical structure remains very stable and is not affected by temperature variations. Temperature changes affect the oscillator’s Amplifier’s gain which must be compensated to ensure accuracy.

The amplifier of the oscillator is combined with a circuit to detect temperature changes. This allows for the necessary gain adjustments to be made, thus stabilizing the frequency of the oscillator. The amplifier provides minimal power consumption and consumes an extremely low current.

In summary, the CE3390-16.384 oscillator is an integrated circuit designed to generate a highly accurate reference frequency of 16.384 MHz. Its low-current mode consumes less power while ensuring frequency stability to within 20 ppm. The device utilizes Temperature Compensated Crystal Oscillator (TCXO) technology which compensates for temperature changes to ensure frequency accuracy. The quartz crystal along with the temperature compensated oscillator enables the oscillator to generate a stable reference frequency.