Solving EMI Challenges in Medical Devices: Spread Spectrum XO Solutions

Electromagnetic interference (EMI) is a critical challenge in modern electronic systems, particularly in environments with stringent regulatory standards. Spread spectrum crystal oscillators (SSXOs) effectively mitigate EMI by modulating the frequency over a defined range, reducing peak emissions without degrading system performance.

The HM series of spread spectrum crystal oscillators (SSXO) by Mercury Electronic is a type of crystal oscillator with low electromagnetic interference (Low EMI), specifically designed to enhance the EMI performance of electronic products. This HM series offers center spread and down spread options (such as 0.5%, 1.5%, 2.0%, 4.0%). By spreading the spectrum over a certain range, the spread spectrum crystal oscillator effectively reduces the peak of electromagnetic interference, with EMI intensity being reduced by more than 15 dB, meeting stringent EMI standards and ensuring stable operation in various applications.

The design of this series of oscillators allows for compatibility with the pin layouts of traditional crystal oscillators, meaning no significant modifications to existing circuit boards or designs are required. This simplifies the design process and reduces costs. It supports a variety of common supply voltages, such as +1.8V, +2.5V, and +3.3V, enabling flexible integration into different electronic systems. The oscillator output logic is CMOS, which is a common interface compatible with many MCUs and other digital circuits. It also provides multiple size options: 7.0x5.0x1.4 mm, 5.0x3.2x1.2 mm, 3.2x2.5x1.0 mm, and 2.5x2.0x0.9 mm, to meet different application requirements and space constraints. The frequency range is from 3 to 200 MHz, with a frequency stability of ±25 ppm over the temperature range of -40°C to +85°C, indicating that this series of oscillators can maintain relatively stable output frequency despite temperature changes.

Medical device products require miniaturization, multi-functionality, high resolution, and minimal radiation to the human body. How to manage clocking issues within limited space becomes crucial. The Low EMI design of Mercury's spread spectrum crystal oscillators means that these oscillators generate low electromagnetic radiation, effectively reducing electromagnetic radiation power and suppressing issues of excessive electromagnetic radiation, thereby lowering potential impacts on other devices or the human body. Due to their unique low electromagnetic interference (EMI) characteristics and frequency stability, spread spectrum crystal oscillators have a wide range of applications in the medical device field. Spread spectrum crystal oscillators can be used in some medical instruments including, but not limited to: electrocardiogram machines, blood pressure monitors, digital thermometers, ultrasound diagnostic equipment, endoscopy systems, etc. Furthermore, spread spectrum crystal oscillators can also be employed in various other medical devices such as imaging equipment, monitoring systems, and diagnostic tools to enhance performance and reduce the risk of interference with other sensitive medical instruments. By providing stable clock signals and reducing electromagnetic interference, they improve the overall performance and reliability of these devices.

In summary, Mercury's Low EMI spread spectrum crystal oscillators, with their characteristics of low electromagnetic interference, high frequency stability, and reliability, offer engineers a solution for achieving stable and reliable frequency sources in electromagnetically sensitive environments. They also simplify the design process and reduce costs, showing broad application prospects in the medical device field.

【About Mercury 】
Mercury Electronic, headquartered in Taiwan, has been a leading quartz crystal manufacturer in the region for over 50 years. Our dedication to excellence is reflected in our stringent quality management system and multiple international certifications, earning the trust and confidence of our customers.
Mercury specializes in manufacturing Crystal Oscillators, Crystal Units, Crystal Filters, and Frequency Control Products, serving a wide range of industries, including automotive, consumer electronics, industrial, medical, aerospace, defense, and data communication.

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