Oscillators

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\| Introduction to Oscillators \| Audio Oscillators \| LC-based RF Oscillators \| Crystal Oscillators \|

Oscillators

In many applications, there is a requirement for a signal that has no natural origin. Radio and television transmitters must generate the carrier wave that transports the information from the broadcast studio to all of the home users. Computers need multiple clock signals at various frequencies, which may in some cases be related to each other. Even a battery powered wristwatch needs some sort of internal signal to keep track of the seconds as they pass.

Signal sources are found in many places and are of many different kinds. Musical instruments are sources of audible signals over a range of possible frequencies. Emergency vehicles have sirens to warn people to get out of the way. The list seems endless.

In electronics, we require regular signals whose amplitude and frequency we can control accurately, sometimes with a very high degree of precision. In these pages we will explore many ways to generate and control such signals.

Introduction to Oscillators

What constitutes an oscillator? How is it different from other kinds of electronic circuits?

Audio Oscillators

The design of an oscillator and the choice of components used depend partly on the frequency, or range of frequencies, it is intended to generate.

LC-based RF Oscillators

At radio frequencies, it is cost effective to use a tuned LC resonant circuit to control the frequency. Here are several practical circuits in this class.

Crystal Oscillators

If an oscillator is to operate at a single frequency, a quartz crystal is often the way to set that frequency.