The application of crystal oscillators in the fields of aerospace and radar is crucial, mainly reflected in the following aspects
Ⅰ. Aerospace field
1. Providing clock signals:
Crystal oscillators are the core components of the frequency source of electronic information equipment and are called the "heart" of the entire machine. In the aerospace field, crystal oscillators are widely used in satellite, navigation and other systems to provide stable reference clock signals for these systems. This is the basis for ensuring the normal operation of aerospace electronic equipment and achieving precise navigation and communication.
2. Ensure system stability:
Space electronic equipment needs to operate stably under extreme environmental conditions, and the frequency stability and reliability of the crystal oscillator are crucial to ensure the stable operation of the entire system. High-stability crystal oscillators, such as temperature-compensated crystal oscillators (TCXOs) or voltage-controlled crystal oscillators (VCXOs), can maintain stable performance under various temperature conditions to meet the needs of space missions.
3. Support fast response and low cost:
With the rapid development of commercial aerospace, the demand for crystal oscillator products has also shown the characteristics of fast selection, fast response and low cost. Scientific research institutions such as Aerospace Science and Industry Corporation have formed a series of mature products including ultra-high stability crystal oscillators and low phase noise crystal oscillators through rapid product development, meeting the needs of commercial aerospace.
II. Radar field
1. LiDAR system:
In the LiDAR system, the crystal oscillator is mainly used to provide a stable clock signal and a high-precision time base. LiDAR calculates the distance of an object by emitting laser pulses and measuring their return time, so a very precise time base is required. The stable clock signal provided by the crystal oscillator ensures the accuracy of time measurement, thereby ensuring the accuracy of distance calculation.
2. Signal synchronization and processing:
After receiving the reflected signal, the laser radar system needs to quickly collect and process data. The clock signal provided by the crystal oscillator is used to synchronize the data acquisition and processing units to ensure that the system can work efficiently and accurately. In a system with multiple laser radar sensors, the unified clock signal provided by the crystal oscillator enables the data from different sensors to be effectively integrated to avoid data misalignment or inconsistency.
3. Improve measurement accuracy:
Some lidar systems use frequency modulated continuous wave (FMCW) technology to improve measurement accuracy and anti-interference ability. Crystal oscillators are used in such systems to generate and control the frequency of the modulated signal to ensure the accuracy and stability of the modulation and demodulation process.
4. Adapt to complex environments:
LiDAR systems may operate under various environmental conditions, so the crystal oscillator needs to maintain stable performance over a wide temperature range. In addition, miniaturized and low-power crystal oscillators help reduce the overall energy consumption and volume of the system, meeting the radar system's requirements for integration and energy efficiency.
In summary, crystal oscillators play an irreplaceable role in the aerospace/radar field. They provide these systems with stable clock signals and high-precision time bases, ensuring the stability and accuracy of the system. With the continuous development of technology, the performance of crystal oscillators will continue to improve, providing better support for the development of the aerospace/radar field.