The quartz crystal oscillator is the “heartbeat” of the entire microprocessor unit (MCU). It provides the clock frequency signal required by the MCU to run instructions.
The module containing the quartz crystal and oscillation circuit requires a power supply for temperature and frequency adjustment output. Since the module contains active electronic components, it is considered an active crystal oscillator.
It is important to note that the quartz crystal oscillator does not require the internal oscillator of the digital signal processor (DSP). It has good signal quality and stability and does not require complex configuration, so the connection is relatively simple. It uses a PI filter network composed of capacitors and inductors and a small value resistor at the output to filter the signal.
Quartz crystal oscillators have a fixed signal level, so the appropriate output level needs to be selected. For applications with sensitive time requirements, more accurate crystal oscillators or temperature compensated crystal oscillators (TCXOs) can be selected.
When quartz crystal oscillators and MCUs are combined into the CPU core computing architecture, they can be used for integrated large-scale communication systems and networks. These collective networks connect various devices and help them communicate with the cloud and other devices. These technologies are used in different industries, including industrial, automotive, IoT, etc.
Industry
Since the 1980s, the innovations of the Industrial Revolution have improved production and efficiency, completely changing the way goods are produced.
Today, we are integrating manufacturing automation and data exchange, as well as the collaboration of humans and machines, to create sustainable products and services. This is known as Industry 4.0 and Industry 5.0.
The core concept of Industry 4.0 is connectivity. This is achieved by connecting demand and supply, while creating a bridge between society and manufacturing. It also promotes the transformation of the manufacturing industry with faster network speeds, greater computing power, and technological innovation at all levels. The Industrial Internet of Things (IoT) is the real bridge in Industry 4.0, connecting production functions. The successful connection and use of these functions will redefine the traditional relationship between producers, suppliers, and consumers, and create an ecosystem in the production system.
Complementing Industry 4.0, Industry 5.0 brings together technicians and collaborative robots to effectively enhance the workforce and increase the value brought by various industries. These devices are equipped with sensors, actuators, and artificial intelligence power controllers, allowing them to collaborate with humans in a safe and non-intrusive way. Collaborative robots are versatile, easy to program, and safe to use.
Internet of Things (IOT)
The Internet of Things is a collective network that connects technology to various devices, helping us communicate with the cloud and between machines. Billions of devices are now connected to the Internet, thanks to the advent of cheap computer chips and high-bandwidth telecommunications. The Internet of Things has opened up a world of possibilities.
Smart Home Appliances
TVs, security cameras, sports equipment, and other home appliances have computing power connected to WiFi. They collect data from their surroundings through user input or usage patterns and exchange it through the Internet and IoT applications.
Home Connected Devices
These devices focus on improving the performance and security of the home, as well as improving the home’s network connectivity. For example, smart sockets can monitor power usage, and smart air conditioners can better regulate temperature. Hydroponic systems can use IoT sensors to manage gardens, while IoT smoke detectors can detect smoke. Home security systems such as door locks, security cameras, and water leak detectors can detect and prevent threats by alerting homeowners.
Automotive Electronics
As the Internet of Things (IoT) concept is applied to the automotive industry, the Internet of Vehicles (IoV) has emerged. These large-scale integrated communication systems and networks for automobiles not only provide new information services, but also improve traffic efficiency and safety.
Automotive electronic systems include:
Safety control systems: engine control, wire-controlled steering system, gearbox, airbag, anti-lock brake system (ABS), tire pressure detection system, electric power steering system, etc.
Data information system: car audio, car navigation system, data bus system, video monitoring system, reversing radar, safety wire control system, etc.
Intelligent transportation system: automatic intelligent toll collection system, real-time road traffic data system, automatic license plate recognition system, highway intelligent system, intelligent transportation system, etc.
In-vehicle clock system: time display, timer, dashboard, remote control door lock, remote control key, car air conditioning, automatic window control, automatic lighting, car anti-theft system, etc.
