What is a spread spectrum quartz crystal oscillator and when is it best to use it?
A spread spectrum crystal clock oscillator is an oscillator that has the output frequency intentionally modulated in order to reduce the EMI on the output signal. Spread spectrum crystal clock oscillators are best used in applications that require a reduction of EMI emissions in order to pass the FCC EMI regulations. Additionally, using a spread spectrum clock oscillator reduces the EMI at the clock source, rather than at locations later down in the clock stream. By reducing the EMI at the clock source, supplemental shielding enclosures and/or filtering components may not be required, reducing overall system costs and improving overall EMI performance.
