From GNSS navigation and wireless communication to flight control and imaging payloads, modern unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) rely on accurate and stable timing signals to support their electronic systems.
Different UAV subsystems have different clocking requirements. GNSS receivers may require highly stable frequency references, while flight controllers, communication modules, and imaging systems depend on reliable clocks for processing and data transmission.
YXC provides a range of frequency control and timing products, including TCXOs, crystal oscillators (SPXOs), and quartz crystal resonators, to support various UAV electronic applications.
1. GNSS / RTK Navigation
GNSS and RTK positioning systems require stable frequency references for accurate signal reception and processing. Temperature variations can affect oscillator frequency, making frequency stability an important consideration in outdoor UAV applications.
2. Communication & Video Transmission
Wireless communication and video transmission modules require suitable reference clocks for RF signal generation, frequency conversion, and data processing. Low phase noise and frequency stability can be important, depending on the communication architecture.
3. Flight Control & Main Controller
Flight controllers integrate MCUs, processors, sensors, and communication interfaces. Reliable clock signals support processor operation, peripheral interfaces, and system timing.
4. Gimbal & Mission Payloads
Camera modules, imaging processors, and other mission payloads use clock signals for sensor operation, data processing, and communication interfaces. Clock selection depends on the specific device and system architecture.
Temperature-Compensated Crystal Oscillators (TCXOs) are designed to maintain frequency stability across changing operating temperatures.
YXC TCXO solutions can support applications where a stable frequency reference is required, including GNSS receivers and wireless communication modules.
Key Features:
Temperature stability options as low as ±0.05 ppm
Low phase noise options
Temperature-compensated frequency reference
Typical Frequencies: 26 MHz / 38.4 MHz / 52 MHz
Recommended Series: YSO510TP
Crystal oscillators (SPXOs) provide an integrated clock source without requiring the host IC to drive an external quartz resonator.
They can be used in UAV flight controllers, processing modules, and other digital electronic systems requiring a compatible clock input.
Key Features:
Stable CMOS clock output
Multiple frequency options
Integrated clock generation
Typical Frequencies: 8 / 16 / 24 / 25 / 27 MHz and 32.768 kHz
Recommended Series: YSO110TR (MHz), YSO120TK (32.768 kHz)
Quartz crystal resonators provide a frequency reference for ICs equipped with compatible internal oscillator circuits.
Their compact SMD packages make them suitable for space-constrained UAV electronics, including controllers, communication modules, and imaging equipment.
Key Features:
Wide frequency selection
Compact SMD package options
Multiple load capacitance options
Typical Frequencies:
MHz: 12 / 20 / 24 / 32 / 40 MHz
kHz: 32.768 kHz
Recommended Series:
The appropriate timing solution depends on the requirements of each UAV subsystem.
When selecting a frequency reference, engineers should consider operating frequency, frequency tolerance or stability, temperature range, supply voltage, output type, package size, and the clock requirements of the target IC.
For applications with demanding frequency stability requirements, a TCXO may be suitable. For systems requiring a ready-to-use digital clock output, an SPXO can simplify clock integration. Quartz crystals are an option when the target IC includes a compatible oscillator circuit.
YXC offers crystal resonators, crystal oscillators, TCXOs, and other timing products for a wide range of electronic applications.
Looking for a suitable timing component for your UAV design?
Contact YXC for product selection, frequency matching, datasheets, and technical support.
