Mini-TCXO Keeps Phase Noise To -155 dBc/Hz

Designers are under pressure to shrink the size, lower the cost, and improve the performance of a variety of components. Oscillators are among the most essential of the components requiring these enhancements. Following this trend, the VTM3 temperature-compensated crystal oscillator (TCXO) offers phase-noise performance that is similar to its predecessorsthe VTC4 and VTC1 TCXOsin a 50-percent package smaller measuring 3.2 x 2.5 mm. Miniaturizing any oscillator platform is challenging because oscillator phase noise increases as the device's size is reduced. Yet the VTM3 flaunts a phase-noise floor of -155 dBc/Hz offset 1 MHz from the carrier. The TCXO can be supplied with output frequencies between 8 to 45 MHz with stability better than 0.5 ppm from −30 to 80C. Supply voltages for the VTM3 are 2.8, 3.0, or 3.3 VDC. The TCXO is optimized for use in a wide range of wireless RF applications including GPS receivers, WLAN, WiMAX, and WiFi base stations. Although standard units are for fixed-frequency use, the VTM3 can be ordered with a voltage-controlled-crystal-oscillator (VCXO) function for applications like seismic exploration, base station, video transport, and WiMAX timing. With current consumption as low as 1 mA, the VTM3 also is well suited for battery-powered applications.

Vectron International, 267 Lowell Rd., Hudson, NH 03051; (888) 328-7661, FAX: (888) 329-8328, Internet: www.vectron.com.

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