Single insertion trimming of highly accurate reference oscillators

A highly integrated monolithic self-compensated oscillator (SCO) with high frequency stability versus temperature variations is described, together with a cost effective single insertion point trimming (SPT) algorithm. The SPT is utilized to adjust the phase and frequency of the SCO to meet frequency stability versus temperature and frequency accuracy requirements for a reference clock.

The techniques used in the SPT algorithm provide a robust, fast and low testing cost for the SCO. Moreover, the concepts and techniques utilized in the SCO SPT can be used effectively for any temperature compensated oscillator (TCO) including TCXO, MEMS, FBAR and RC oscillators. Additionally, the described SPT algorithm is capable of measuring the temperature sensitivity of any oscillator, estimating suitable temperature compensation parameters and adjusting the oscillator frequency to the required value simultaneously.