Electronics

What is a Microprocessor Clock?

The CPU clock dictates how fast the processor can process the data, and a microprocessor having a clock speed of 3 MHz means that it can process data internally 3 million times a second at every clock cycle.

The crystal quartz oscillator is the most appropriate frequency determining device in virtually all microprocessors, microcontrollers, PICs and CPUs; It is used to generate their clock waveforms. To generate a microprocessor clock, generally, all you need is crystal and two ceramic capacitors of values ranging 15 to 33 pF as demonstrated below:

Microprocessor oscillator
Figure 1.1 Microprocessor oscillator

Most microprocessors, microcontrollers and PICs have two oscillator pins labelled OSC1 and OSC2 to connect to an external quartz crystal, RC network or even a ceramic resonator. In this application, the crystal oscillator produces a train of continuous square wave pulses whose frequency is controlled by the crystal which in turn executes the instruction that control the device.

Also read: The Basic Principle of Operation of an Oscillator

John Mulindi

John Mulindi is an Industrial Instrumentation and Control Professional with a wide range of experience in electrical and electronics, process measurement, control systems and automation. In free time he spends time reading, taking adventure walks and watching football.

Recent Posts

What is an Integrated Circuit (IC)?

Image source Pexels An integrated circuit (IC) is a circuit in which components such as…

1 day ago

The Problems Associated with Embedded Power Generation

Image source Pixabay The rate of the development of energy sources that are alternatives to…

2 weeks ago

The Power of Automation in Construction: How It Transforms Efficiency and Safety

Image by Pixabay Automation is transforming industries worldwide, and construction is no exception. Companies are…

2 weeks ago

LED Beacon Lights: What Does Each Colour Lens Mean?

A closeup shot of a warning lamp in the street at night, image by Freepik…

2 weeks ago

Impeller Flowmeters: Features, Installation Considerations & Uses

Impeller flowmeters at times referred to as paddlewheel meters are one of the frequently utilized…

3 weeks ago

Sell Old Electronics: Turn Your Used Devices into Cash

Photo by Héctor Martínez on Unsplash Introduction Yes! If you have old electronic devices that you…

3 weeks ago