Quartz Oscillator
A Quartz Oscillator is an electronic component that uses the properties of quartz crystals to generate precise frequencies. When an electric current is applied to the quartz, it vibrates at a specific frequency, which can be used to keep time in devices like watches and clocks. This frequency stability makes quartz oscillators essential in various applications, including radios and computers.
The technology behind quartz oscillators relies on the piezoelectric effect, where certain materials produce an electric charge when mechanically stressed. This property allows quartz crystals to maintain accurate and consistent oscillations, making them more reliable than other types of oscillators, such as those based on LC circuits or mechanical resonators.