Crystal and Oscillator Handling Procedures

Suntsu Application Notes

1. Protecting Against Mechanical Shock:

Due to the delicate nature of crystal blanks, it’s essential to handle oscillators and crystals with utmost care. Avoid dropping them onto hard surfaces. Using rubber floor mats can significantly reduce the risk of damage. Dropping units can result in various failures, such as broken crystals, damaged interconnects, compromised packages, or broken glass seals.

2. Proper Oscillator Insertion:

Take extra care when inserting an oscillator into a circuit board. Ensure correct pin orientation. Testing has revealed that plugging a unit in backward (reverse polarity) or applying excessive voltage (over +7.0 volts DC) can cause failures. HCMOS devices are particularly vulnerable to this damage. For incoming inspections, we suggest using zero insertion force (ZIF) sockets to prevent lead damage, glass-to-metal seal issues, or plating deformation. Always handle units by their casing, not the leads.

3. Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Prevention:

Protect oscillator units from ESD damage at all times. Take precautions during handling and mounting to avoid ESD exposure. Handle components at static-safeguarded workstations. Implement measures to eliminate and prevent static build-up or charge through grounding metal trays, conductive containers, and personnel using conductive floors, table mats, and wrist straps.

4. Additional Recommendations:

  • Store units in a dry environment.
  • Keep units in their packaging until ready for mounting.
  • Wear finger cots when handling oscillators or crystals.
  • When not in manufacturer packaging, store units with leads placed in foam or a single-layer tray, leads facing upward.
  • If lead forming or cutting is necessary before mounting, perform a gross leak test afterward to verify package integrity.


Need more information?

You can download a PDF version of these notes here, reach out to us by phone at (949) 783-7300 or through our online contact form.

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