Crystals Resonators Oscillators

Crystals, resonators, and oscillators are all used to create the timing requires for microcontrollers. each type will have it's own accuracy. Typically the accuracy is in the following order

RC Oscillators

• Moderate Performance
• +/- 5%
• Cost: $0, usually internal to the microcontroller.

Resonators

• Better Performance
• +/-0.5%
• Cost: $0.10
• Packages: 3 pin through hole

Crystals

• Best Performance
• +/-0.00002% or 20ppm
• Cost: $0.25
• Packages: HC49
• Con: Requires additional load capacitors to get the crystal moving.