The "all-in-one-package" miniature, low-frequency oscillator from Micro Crystal, a division of the Swatch Group, combines the company’s smallest 32,768 Hz timing crystal with a complete CMOS oscillator circuit. The device is housed in a ceramic SMD package measuring 3.2 mm x 1.5 mm x 1.0 mm. Its high stability and very low current consumption are suitable for today's high-performance portable equipment.

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The wide operating voltage, from 5.5 V down to 1.2 V, ensures reliable operation. A maximum current consumption of 0.5 µA at 3 V supports long battery life. As such, it is up to 10 times lower than that of comparable products and 10,000 times lower than typical AT-based oscillators. Frequency tolerance is ±20 ppm, with tighter tolerance optional. Operating temperature range is from -40°C to +85°C, with a storage range of -55°C to +125°C standard. Shock resistance is up to 5000 g.

A short start up time of 0.5 s (maximum) also contributes to low power consumption. As more portable products require a stable timebase, there is a growing demand for low-frequency oscillators. Micro Crystal’s OV-7604-C7 Low Frequency Oscillators are available in production quantities. Pricing is $1.65 each in 1000-piece lots.