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Armstrong’s Method of FM Generation

Armstrong’s Method of FM Generation

This article explores the concept of indirect FM generation and the basic operation of the Armstrong modulator.


SiTime Enters Resonator Market With Tiny MEMS-Based Devices

SiTime Enters Resonator Market With Tiny MEMS-Based Devices

Announced today, SiTime is expanding into a $4 billion resonator market with its Titan platform.


News Sep 17, 2025 by Jake Hertz
Understanding Varactor and PLL-Based FM Generation Using Crystal Oscillators

Understanding Varactor and PLL-Based FM Generation Using Crystal Oscillators

In this article, we examine two different methods of producing wideband FM signals. Both use crystal oscillators to provide improved frequency stability.


Microchip Specializes GNSS Disciplined Oscillator Modules for Defense

Microchip Specializes GNSS Disciplined Oscillator Modules for Defense

The new timing solutions bring precise synchronization to harsh or signal-denied environments.


News Sep 08, 2025 by Jake Hertz
Improving the Frequency Deviation and Stability of a Direct FM Generator

Improving the Frequency Deviation and Stability of a Direct FM Generator

In this article, we explore the limitations of LC oscillators for direct FM generation and how to deal with them using multipliers and automatic frequency control (AFC) circuits.


Using Varactor Diodes for FM Signal Generation

Using Varactor Diodes for FM Signal Generation

Learn how a varactor diode's variable capacitance, together with an LC tank circuit, can drive a voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO) to create FM waveforms.


An FM Generator Circuit Using the Capacitance of a Collector-Base Junction

An FM Generator Circuit Using the Capacitance of a Collector-Base Junction

In this article, we examine a reactance modulator design that employs the variable capacitance of a bipolar junction transistor to modulate the output of a Colpitts oscillator.


Introduction to Reactance Modulators for Generating FM Signals

Introduction to Reactance Modulators for Generating FM Signals

In this article, we'll introduce the fundamental concepts of direct FM generation and examine a key FM modulation circuit: the reactance modulator.


Practical Insights Into Narrowband FM With a Single-Frequency Input

Practical Insights Into Narrowband FM With a Single-Frequency Input

In this article, we’ll use phasor diagrams to compare narrowband FM and conventional AM. We’ll also discuss the problem of oscillator phase noise and work through an example problem.


SiTime Unveils Software for Data Center and Network Time Synchronization

SiTime Unveils Software for Data Center and Network Time Synchronization

Announced today, the new software works with SiTime hardware to create the most accurate and reliable data center, networking, and communications timing system.


News Jun 30, 2025 by Duane Benson
Introduction to Narrowband Angle Modulation

Introduction to Narrowband Angle Modulation

Using a simple example, this article examines the frequency spectra of frequency-modulated (FM) and phase-modulated (PM) waves for a low modulation index.


Startup Intros ‘Most Advanced’ Multi-Gigahertz Timing and Clock Devices

Startup Intros ‘Most Advanced’ Multi-Gigahertz Timing and Clock Devices

Unveiled today, the new timing chips from Mixed-Signal Devices offer 2 GHz performance and use scalable CMOS to overcome the limits of analog alternatives.


News Jun 03, 2025 by Jeff Child
Demodulating Double-Sideband AM Signals

Demodulating Double-Sideband AM Signals

We examine RF demodulation circuits used for both double-sideband suppressed carrier (DSB-SC) signals and double-sideband signals with a carrier.


Microchip Designs Compact Low-Noise Atomic Clock Device for Defense

Microchip Designs Compact Low-Noise Atomic Clock Device for Defense

The new solution merges the benefits of a crystal oscillator and an atomic clock into one uniform package.


News Jan 30, 2025 by Jake Hertz
Rohm Claims ‘Smallest’ Terahertz Wave Oscillation and Detection Devices

Rohm Claims ‘Smallest’ Terahertz Wave Oscillation and Detection Devices

You thought mmWave was high frequency? Rohm's new devices bring Terahertz into the realm of practicality.


News Jan 24, 2025 by Aaron Carman
CES Exclusive: Why SiTime Believes Silicon Is the Future of Timing

CES Exclusive: Why SiTime Believes Silicon Is the Future of Timing

In an exclusive interview with the SiTime team, we discussed the benefits of MEMS-based timing solutions over their quartz-oscillator counterparts.


News Jan 21, 2025 by Jake Hertz
Easing Data Center Burdens, SiTime Launches Differential-Ended Oscillator

Easing Data Center Burdens, SiTime Launches Differential-Ended Oscillator

The new differential-ended oscillator is the company’s first specifically designed to optimize efficiency in AI data centers.


News Jan 16, 2025 by Jake Hertz
Create Your Own Stylus-Controlled Synthesizer

Create Your Own Stylus-Controlled Synthesizer

In this project article, we'll use a 555 timer IC to build an iconic musical instrument from the early days of synthesizers.


The BBC Micro:bit Adjustable Brightness Alarm: A Radio Shack Remix

The BBC Micro:bit Adjustable Brightness Alarm: A Radio Shack Remix

In this project article, we’ll create a programmable device that alerts users to changes in ambient light levels. Along the way, we’ll learn about astable multivibrators and the Darlington pair.


Projects Nov 20, 2024 by Don Wilcher
Using QSPICE to Understand and Tune an LED Blinker Circuit

Using QSPICE to Understand and Tune an LED Blinker Circuit

In this article, we examine the oscillation behavior of an LED blinker circuit in QSPICE and learn how to control its ON-time and pulse repetition frequency.