PAS-BC3WK Datasheet, PDF (2/3 Pages) Abracon Corporation – The majority of electronic designs have some form of timing associated with them

PIERCE ANALYZER SYSTEM (PAS)
ADVANCED BOARD CHARACTERIZATION SERVICE
PAS-BC3WK
||
Historically, design engineers have optimized their circuit performance via trial & error, at the expense of significant
investment in time. Further, to properly determine the oscillator loop dynamics, there is no other choice but to break the
oscillator loop and make key measurements using specialized equipment such as a Current Probe.
Lastly, these measurements become increasingly sensitive if the timing loop is driven by a Tuning Fork (32.768kHz)
crystal. These crystals are extremely sensitive to loading effects and to accurately determine the in-circuit behavior of these
components, extreme care and accuracy is essential.
For instance, Automotive, Medical and Consumer Electronics solutions typically utilize Tuning Fork Crystals for their
Real-Time-Clocking (RTC) needs. If the selected SOC has inadequate gain margin, there is a high probability that some
percentage of these Crystals will not properly start under adverse conditions, such as low operating temperature.
Another example would be a Zigbee based design which has a hard boundary condition of ±40 ppm relative to the carrier,
for proper operation. If the oscillator loop is not optimized, most of the ±40 ppm can be consumed by tolerance alone;
thereby causing significant fall out in the field.
In summary, a typical product launch requires significant investment of capital and design resources. Making a very
modest investment in characterizing the timing loop is a must have to protect this investment, as well as mitigate risk of
field failures or warranty re-calls.
SOLUTION:
To overcome these barriers and provide an accurate assessment of the oscillator loop dynamics; Abracon’s Advanced
Engineering Team has developed a Proprietary Pierce Analyzer System (PAS); which is designed to analyze both the stand
alone crystal, as well as the performance of that particular crystal in customer’s circuit.
ABRACON IS
ISO9001:2008
CERRTTIIFFIIEEDD
Visit www.abracon.com for Terms & Conditions of Sale Revised: 03.12.12
30332 Esperanza, Rancho Santa Margarita, California 92688
tel [phone] | fax [phone] | www.abracon.com