Question
How can an oscillator’s microphonic responses be reduced?
Answer Options
- A) Use NPO capacitors
- B) Reduce noise on the oscillator’s power supply
- C) Increase the gain
- D) Mechanically isolate the oscillator circuitry from its enclosure
Correct Answer: D
Explanation
Microphonics refers to the unwanted frequency shifts and instability in an oscillator caused by physical or acoustic vibration. Since the cause is physical disturbance changing the capacitance or inductance of the frequency-determining components, the solution must be mechanical.
The most effective way to reduce an oscillator’s microphonic responses is to mechanically isolate the oscillator circuitry from its enclosure (or from outside disturbances). This is often achieved by mounting the entire circuit board in a rugged, shielded box that is shock-mounted or filled with an acoustic damping material, minimizing the transmission of vibration to the sensitive components.
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