MHz Crystal Units with Integrated Thermistor

Superior Temperature Performance in Timing Solutions

Many of today’s technologies require electronic components that produce a stable clock reference signal for optimum performance. In these designs, there’s a need to compensate for the effects that wide temperature swings can have on a crystal’s output frequency. When combined with an appropriate chipset, a crystal with a built-in temperature sensor can offer very tight frequency stabilities. This makes them ideal for a wide variety of precise applications and designs and suitable replacements for temperature compensated crystal oscillators (TXCOs).

Part Number	Support Docs	Type	Package Code	Package Size	Frequency	Tolerance	Stability	Operating Temperature
ECX-1637TC 38.4 MHz	Datasheet Support Docs	Thermistor MHz Crystal	37TC	2.05mm x 1.65mm	38.4 MHz	±10ppm	±12ppm	-30°C ~ 85°C
ECX-2236TC 26 MHz	Datasheet Support Docs	Thermistor MHz Crystal	36TC	2.55mm x 2.05mm	26 MHz	±10ppm	±12ppm	-30°C ~ 85°C
ECX-1637TC 26 MHz	Datasheet Support Docs	Thermistor MHz Crystal	37TC	2.05mm x 1.65mm	26 MHz	±10ppm	±12ppm	-30°C ~ 85°C
ECX-2236TC 19.2 MHz	Datasheet Support Docs	Thermistor MHz Crystal	36TC	2.55mm x 2.05mm	19.2 MHz	±10ppm	±12ppm	-30°C ~ 85°C
ECX-1637TC 19.2 MHz	Datasheet Support Docs	Thermistor MHz Crystal	37TC	2.05mm x 1.65mm	19.2 MHz	±10ppm	±12ppm	-30°C ~ 85°C

What is a Thermistor?

A thermistor is a type of resistor that has a variable resistance depending on the temperature. In essence, they’re temp sensors. Thermistors are made up of binders, stabilizers and sensitive semiconductor-based metal oxides; the ratios determine the component’s resistance.

While a thermistor’s primary use is as a resistive temperature sensor, it can also be connected within a series with other components or devices to control electrical current; thus, it can be used as a current-limiting device as well. Both of these uses are accomplished using one of two primary types of thermistors:

Negative Temperature Coefficient (NTC thermistors) – This thermistors’ resistance decreases as the temperature rises. This thermistor type is most commonly used as a temperature sensor
Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC thermistors) – Unlike its NTC counterpart, a PTC thermistor’s resistance increases as the temperature rises. These thermistors are typically installed in series with a circuit to protect against overcurrent conditions

Why Thermistor Crystals?

By combining the crystal and temperature sensor in the same hermetically sealed package, you get several advantages over traditional designs that feature separate crystals and temp sensors. Proximity of each component within the circuit gives real-time crystal temperature feedback. It also minimizes part count, saving circuit board space and simplifying circuit design. Crystals with built-in thermistors offer significantly more stable temperature performance and feature an optimized design that make them a perfect fit for many applications requiring passive electronic components.

Ultimately, a thermistor crystal’s ability to compensate for the effects of temperature on quartz crystals results in tight frequency stability and optimized circuit board design. Plus, when you order thermistor crystals from ECS Inc., a world leader in the manufacturing of passive electronic components, you’ll also get a level of reliability and durability that is unmatched in the industry.

Click here for the thermistor crystal application note.

Electronic Component Solutions to Fit Your Design

Get in touch with a sales representative if you need more information about MHz crystals with integrated thermistors or have questions about a specific requirement in your application design. Contact the ECS engineering team at engineering@ecsxtal.com for assistance with products, board respins and any additional questions. Refer to the ECS Inc. online resource library for more specifications and information about products and applications.

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