Silicon Oscillators
A silicon oscillator is an electrical circuit that generates a constant frequency and uses a proper combination of passive and active components to generate the electric signal. Silicon oscillators often use different combinations of transistors, resistors, and capacitors in order to generate the oscillating signal. The frequency of the signal is determined by the characteristics of the components used as well as their arrangement. The primary benefit of these circuits is that they are able to generate an analog signal with a high degree of repeatable accuracy and stability. This makes them ideal for use in applications where frequency accuracy and consistent operation is important, such as in radio transmitters and receivers, navigation systems, and medical monitoring systems. Additionally, since silicon oscillator circuitry does not incorporate any moving mechanical parts, it is generally low in cost and highly reliable.