Precise timing remains a foundational requirement across applications ranging from satellite communications and GPS receivers to medical equipment and industrial instrumentation. As embedded systems become smaller and more power-conscious, maintaining stable timing performance while reducing size and power consumption presents an ongoing challenge for designers.
Microchip Technology recently introduced the EX-423 Evacuated Miniature Crystal Oscillator (EMXO), a compact timing device intended for applications requiring high stability and long-term frequency accuracy while operating within space and power limitations.
The device builds on the company’s previous EX-421 family and is packaged in a compact 13mm × 13mm form factor aimed at systems where board space is limited.
Timing references used in communications and positioning systems can be affected by temperature variation, mechanical stress, vibration, and environmental conditions. To address these factors, the EX-423 uses an ultra-high vacuum package structure intended to improve thermal isolation around the crystal element. Improved thermal insulation can help minimize environmental effects that contribute to frequency drift.
The device also incorporates a four-point crystal mounting structure designed to reduce sensitivity to mechanical disturbances. Reducing g-sensitivity—the tendency of an oscillator’s frequency to shift under acceleration or vibration—can be particularly important in applications involving motion, shock, or harsh operating conditions.
Examples include GPS and GNSS tracking systems, military communication equipment, seismic monitoring systems such as Ocean Bottom Nodes (OBNs), satellite communication platforms, and test and measurement instrumentation.
Performance characteristics of timing devices are often evaluated using metrics beyond simple frequency accuracy. Phase noise, for example, influences signal purity and can directly affect communication quality and receiver performance. Short-term frequency stability, commonly measured using Allan deviation, becomes important in systems that require highly consistent timing references over small time intervals.
According to Microchip, the EX-423 combines low phase noise with tight thermal control and stable frequency performance across both short- and long-term operation. The oscillator operates across a standard frequency range of 10MHz to 20MHz.
Power consumption can also play a significant role in battery-operated systems and remote deployments. The EX-423 consumes approximately 1W during warm-up and can drop to roughly 0.2W during steady-state operation at room temperature, helping reduce overall power demands once the device reaches stable operation.
As wireless systems, positioning technologies, and edge devices continue to place greater demands on timing precision, designers are increasingly balancing accuracy, environmental resilience, and power consumption. Components that combine ruggedized construction with lower power requirements may help address these competing design constraints in applications where timing performance directly affects overall system behavior.
Learn More: https://www.microchip.com/en-us/product/EX-423
