Microchip Technology has introduced the EX-423 Evacuated Miniature Crystal Oscillator (EMXO), a compact and energy-efficient timing device developed for applications requiring high stability, precision, and long operational life. Expanding on the existing EX-421 series, the EX-423 offers strong RF performance in a slim 13 mm × 13 mm form factor, making it suitable for designs with limited space and power availability.
Ruggedized for demanding environments, the EX‑423 is sealed in an ultra‑high vacuum designed to provide optimal thermal insulation and help improve frequency stability. Its quartz crystal uses a four‑point mount to enhance shock survivability and reduce g‑sensitivity, making it well suited for GPS/GNSS tracking, military radios, medical devices, Ocean Bottom Node (OBN) seismic systems, test and measurement equipment and satellite communications.
“When developing the EX‑423, we focused on the key parameters designers use to evaluate high‑performance reference oscillators,” said Randy Brudzinski, corporate vice president of Microchip’s frequency and time systems business unit. “Delivering this level of performance in a rugged, small footprint helps customers simplify designs without compromising timing accuracy.”
The EX‑423 combines ultra‑low phase noise with tight temperature control, strong short‑term stability (Allan deviation), fast warm‑up, and long‑term frequency stability. Operating over a standard 10–20 MHz frequency range, the device consumes 1W during warm‑up and as little as 0.2W at +25 °C in steady state, helping extend battery life while maintaining a clean, stable reference under specified operating conditions.
Microchip offers an extensive portfolio of clock and timing systems from miniature component oscillators to small plug-in timing server cards to multi-rack time scale systems. Recognized as a contributor to the world’s time, Microchip’s timing solutions are trusted, reliable and resilient.
