Voltage-Controlled Oscillators Are Reborn

Although the industry tends to spotlight the newest innovations, many components and technologies continuously do an impressive job of reinventing themselves. For example, take voltage-controlled oscillators (VCOs). Their target applications have grown to include such things as digital radio equipment, fixed wireless access, satellite communications systems, base stations, Personal Communications Systems, portable radios, and test instruments.

To keep its VCOs current, Crystek Crystals Corp. has launched a new line. It is comprised of three industry-standard packages. Additional packages will be added by the first quarter of 2004. The line's frequency range is from 50 MHz to 3.5 GHz. It promises low harmonic suppression and low phase noise to −115 dBc/Hz. Wide bandwidths and extended operating temperatures (−40º to +85ºC) also are available.

The available packages are the CVC055, CVC045, and CVC033. The CVCO55 has a frequency range of 50 to 3500 MHz. At 12.70 × 12.70 × 3.60 mm, it is priced at $11.00 to $18.00 each in 1000-piece quantities. The CVCO45 flaunts a frequency range of 50 to 2000 MHz. Its dimensions measure 10.16 × 12.60 × 4.20 mm. In 1000-piece quantities, it is priced at $7.50 to $10.00 each. The CVCO33 also boasts a frequency range of 50 to 2000 MHz. Measuring 7.62 × 7.62 × 2.00 mm, it is available now. The CVC033 is priced at $8.00 to $11.00 each in 1000-piece quantities.