TCXOs
Here at Golledge Electronics, we provide a full range of (VC)TCXO products to support our clients in building and creating reliable applications and electronic products.
All of our highlighted key VCTCXO and TCXO products are chosen for their combination of highly competitive commercial pricing, high performance, and their large range of developed frequencies and specifications.
Please browse our selection of VCTCXO and TCXO products below or use our search bar to find an exact match for your needs. If you cannot find what you are looking for, don’t hesitate to contact one of our engineering experts today.
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What is a TCXO?
TCXO stands for Temperature Compensated Crystal Oscillator. This type of oscillator is used where the accuracy of a crystal oscillator on its own is not sufficient.
The "Temperature Compensated" part simply means that the oscillator has a circuit that automatically adjust its frequency output to compensate for changes in temperature, over a wide temperature range. This helps make appliances for radio communications, GPS positioning and navigation possible in all conditions.
Some of the most common applications that use TCXOs include:
- GPS receivers
- Wireless and cellular communications equipment
- Test and measurement equipment
- Scientific instruments
- Aerospace and defence systems.
TCXOs are essentially a bridge between a XO and OCXO, which makes them often more expensive than a typical oscillator. A TCXO is much cheaper, smaller, and consumes much less power than an OCXO. The temperature compensation gives them a better accuracy than other oscillators and allows them to be used in applications where the accuracy is mandated.
What is the difference between TCXO and VCXO?
A TCXO is similar in many ways to a VCXO but with one key difference:
A TCXO has an additional circuit that produces a tuning voltage that is dependent on the temperature of the circuit. This control voltage is designed to cancel out the temperature variation of the crystal and oscillator circuit frequency. For VCTCXOs the external tune voltage is added to the temperature correction voltage.
How does a TCXO differ from a VCXO?
The key difference between a TCXO and a VCXO lies in their temperature compensation mechanisms. While both are crystal oscillators, a TCXO includes a circuit that generates a tuning voltage dependent on temperature to compensate for frequency variations.
On the other hand, a VCXO (Voltage Controlled Crystal Oscillator) relies solely on an external control voltage to adjust its frequency, without temperature compensation.
Why would I need a TCXO instead of a regular crystal oscillator?
If your application requires precise frequency stability across a wide temperature range, a TCXO is necessary. Its temperature compensation feature ensures reliable performance in varying environmental conditions, making it suitable for critical applications like GPS navigation and wireless communications.
Are TCXOs more expensive than other types of oscillators?
Yes, TCXOs tend to be more expensive than standard crystal oscillators due to their added temperature compensation circuitry. However, their accuracy and stability make them indispensable for applications where precision is paramount.
How do TCXOs compare to OCXOs in terms of size and power consumption?
TCXOs are much smaller and consume significantly less power compared to Oven-Controlled Crystal Oscillators (OCXOs).
While OCXOs offer superior stability, TCXOs strike a balance between size, power consumption, and performance, making them suitable for a wider range of applications.
How accurate are TCXOs compared to other oscillators?
TCXOs offer better accuracy compared to standard crystal oscillators and Voltage-Controlled Crystal Oscillators (VCXOs). The temperature compensation mechanism minimises frequency deviations caused by temperature changes, ensuring consistent performance.
Can I replace a standard crystal oscillator with a TCXO in my circuit?
In many cases, yes. TCXOs are designed to be drop-in replacements for standard crystal oscillators, offering improved stability and temperature compensation without requiring significant changes to the circuit design.
Are Golledge Electronics TCXOs customisable for specific applications?
Yes, we offer customisable TCXOs tailored to meet the unique requirements of different applications. Our engineering team can work with you to develop TCXOs optimised for your specific frequency stability, temperature range, and power consumption needs.
Do TCXOs require any special calibration or tuning?
TCXOs are typically factory calibrated to ensure accurate frequency output over their specified temperature range. However, some applications may require additional tuning or calibration to meet specific performance criteria, which can be accommodated during the manufacturing process.
What is the typical lifespan of a TCXO?
The lifespan of a TCXO depends on various factors including operating conditions, environmental stress, and quality of components. However, with proper handling and maintenance, TCXOs can last for many years, providing reliable performance throughout their operational life.
Can I get technical support for TCXOs from Golledge Electronics?
Yes, we offer comprehensive technical support for our TCXOs, including assistance with product selection, application guidance, and troubleshooting. Our team of experts is committed to ensuring the optimal performance and reliability of your TCXO-based systems.