Quartz and Crystal Oscillators

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Quartz and Crystal Oscillators If you have ever owned a wristwatch, clock, radio, computer, or cellphone then you have most likely had in your possession a crystal oscillator. All of these devices use specific frequencies in order to function. The crystal oscillator is responsible for creating the various frequencies needed (Quartz Crystals and). The device is a type of electronic oscillator, meaning it creates an electronic signal that repeatedly oscillates. The oscillator has the ability to convert a direct current coming from a power supply into signals. As the name implies, a crystal oscillator uses a crystal (Quartz Crystals and). The electrical signal is created by the resonance of a piece of vibrating crystal. The most common type of crystal used is quartz. Quartz is silicon dioxide. It is the world’s most common mineral. Although quartz is used in electrical products, it is surprisingly non conductive (Quartz Crystals and). Electrical currents do not travel through it. Quartz does however have other special electrical properties that make it a great resource for certain electronics. Quartz crystal is what is known as piezoelectric (Quartz Crystals and). This word is derived from the Greek word “piez” meaning “to press”. This type of material is non-conductive but it generates electricity when pressure is applied to it or vice versa. Piezoelectric material becomes deformed when electricity is run through it (Quartz Crystals and). If a piece of quartz was to be compressed by something such as pliers, it would give off a small electrical charge. If a piece of quartz was connected to one of the ends of a battery, it would warp or bend slightly. Don’t bother trying to see this reaction take place though. The effects of the electricity happen on a scale too small for the human eye to see. The bending and shaking that occurs will go unnoticed, as well as the

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