Piezoelectricity is a fascinating scientific phenomenon that has been used to create several electronics components that have revolutionized the industry. One such component is the Piezoelectric Resonator. In this blog, we will discuss what piezoelectric resonators are, how they work, and how they are used in electronic oscillators and filters.
What is a Piezoelectric Resonator?
A piezoelectric resonator is an electronic component that is designed to generate an electrical signal with a specific resonant frequency. Piezoelectric materials are used to create these resonators, which are comprised of a mechanical resonator and an electrical network.
The mechanical resonator is made of a piezoelectric material that vibrates at a specific frequency when an electrical charge is applied. This vibration generates an electrical signal that can be filtered and amplified to create a stable frequency.
Piezoelectric materials are crystals that produce an electrical charge when they are subjected to mechanical stress. This stress could be pressure, vibration, or bending. The vibration of the piezoelectric material generates a frequency that is determined by the size, shape, and material composition of the crystal.
How do Piezoelectric Resonators Work?
Piezoelectric resonators are typically made from quartz crystals, which are cut into a specific shape called a resonator. The resonator is designed to vibrate at a specific frequency when an electrical charge is applied. This frequency is determined by the size, shape, and material composition of the crystal.
When an electrical charge is applied to the crystal, it oscillates back and forth generating an acoustic wave. This acoustic wave propagates through the crystal and causes it to vibrate at its resonant frequency. The vibration of the crystal generates an electrical signal that can be used as a reference signal in electronic oscillators and filters.
Piezoelectric resonators are designed to have a high Q factor, which means they vibrate at a specific frequency with minimal damping. This makes them ideal for use in high-frequency applications like electronic oscillators and filters.
Uses of Piezoelectric Resonators
Piezoelectric resonators are used in various electronic applications, including:
Electronic Filters - Piezoelectric resonators are used to create electronic filters that can filter out specific frequencies from an electrical signal. The resonator is placed in a resonant circuit that will only allow frequencies that match its resonant frequency to pass through.
Electronic Oscillators - Piezoelectric resonators are used to create electronic oscillators that can generate a stable frequency. The resonator is connected to an electronic circuit that amplifies the signal generated by the vibration of the crystal. This amplified signal is fed back to the crystal, causing it to vibrate at its resonant frequency.
Clock Generators - Piezoelectric resonators are used in clock generators that are used in various electronic devices like computers, smartphones, and other time-sensitive applications.
Conclusion
Piezoelectric resonators are essential electronic components that are used in various electronic applications, including electronic filters and oscillators. These resonators are made of piezoelectric materials that generate a specific frequency when subjected to mechanical stress. The vibration of the crystal generates an electrical signal that can be filtered and amplified to create stable frequency signals. Piezoelectric resonators have revolutionized the electronics industry and have become an integral part of modern electronic devices.