Q: How does an OCXO compare with an atomic clock?

A: Our OCXOs are generally not suitable for battery-powered applications because their power consumption can drain a battery quickly. Where an application requires both OCXO performance and reduced power requirements, a specialized low-power model, such as a miniature OCXO, can be considered. SJK provides multiple oscillator technologies for different power and performance requirements. Our SPXO products feature low power consumption and ultra-low operating voltage down to 1.8 V, while our TCXO products also emphasize low power consumption.

We also provide 32.768 kHz crystal and RTC products for low-power timing applications. Our RTC portfolio includes low-power solutions for IoT and low-power embedded systems, with 3V operating current as low as 45 nA for our listed RTC products. For battery-powered designs, customers can therefore evaluate our low-power frequency-control products according to the application's required performance and power conditions.

A: Yes. In network synchronization switches using SyncE/PTP, OCXOs are a core component for clock holdover. At SJK, we identify AI and computing as important application areas for our crystal oscillator technology. Our application materials describe crystal oscillators as reference clocks for AI systems, where real-time data processing, low-latency decision-making, and communication stability are important requirements. We also manufacture high-precision OCXO using oven-controlled technology to isolate quartz crystal resonators from external temperature variations.

Our OCXO products are designed to provide extremely high frequency stability and excellent low phase noise performance. This makes OCXO technology part of our frequency-control solutions for high-precision timing requirements. Our broader oscillator portfolio also includes differential oscillators for high-speed digital applications and TCXO for applications requiring frequency accuracy and temperature stability.

A: OCXOs are intended for applications that require a highly stable frequency reference and precise timing performance. SJK’s OCXO products use oven-controlled technology to isolate the quartz crystal resonator from external temperature variations, providing high frequency stability and low phase noise. The SJK OCXO range covers output frequencies from 5 MHz to 100 MHz, with frequency accuracy of up to ±3 ppb / ±10 ppb depending on the product.

Typical applications listed by SJK include base station communication systems, precision test and measurement equipment, satellite navigation systems, high-precision clock synchronization networks, telecommunication infrastructure, and frequency standard equipment. OCXOs are therefore more suitable for systems where frequency stability is a key requirement rather than for basic clock applications. SJK offers multiple supply voltages, package options, and output formats, as well as customized frequency and specification solutions for different high-precision timing requirements.

A: Drive level refers to the power consumed by a crystal during operation. It is an important parameter because the crystal needs to operate within its specified drive-level range. If the applied drive level exceeds the recommended limit, the crystal may be damaged or its long-term performance may be affected. SJK specifies drive-level requirements for different crystal products according to their design and frequency range.

Some SMD crystal series have a typical drive level of 100 μW, while automotive crystal products can offer different drive-level options such as 10 μW, 100 μW, and 200 μW or customized specifications. When selecting a crystal, the drive level should therefore be checked together with frequency, load capacitance, ESR, and other circuit parameters. SJK also supports circuit matching and product selection, helping customers evaluate the appropriate crystal specifications for their designs.

A: Yes. A decoupling capacitor is recommended for active oscillators to help maintain a stable power supply and reduce noise around the oscillator. A commonly used value is 0.1 μF, placed as close as possible to the oscillator’s VCC pin. Keeping the capacitor close to the power pin helps minimize noise along the power-supply path and supports stable oscillator operation. The capacitor should be considered during the circuit design stage rather than added only after the PCB has been completed. The specific power-supply arrangement should also be checked against the electrical specifications of the selected oscillator and the requirements of the target circuit.

For customers working on a new design or replacing an existing timing component, SJK provides technical support covering component selection and circuit matching. This allows the power-supply design, component specifications, and application requirements to be considered together during the selection process. For projects with specific circuit conditions, our technical team can also assist with evaluating the suitability of the selected component before production.