Concept and Structure of the Arkh.2G
Arkh.2G concept
Quartz crystal devices are classified into two main types. One is crystal resonators, which embed quartz crystal elements into packages, and the other is crystal oscillators, which embed both quartz crystal elements and electronic circuits (ICs), which oscillate quartz crystals, into packages.
In recent years, higher frequencies and precision are required of quartz crystal devices in various applications, such as GPS, optical communication, and automotive driving safety devices. There has been growing demand for crystal oscillators. However, it is difficult to balance a stable supply and environmental initiatives, which are our material issues, simply by increasing the number of plants to meet the growing demand. To realize a stable supply which meets the demand, it is essential to improve production efficiency.
Improvement in production efficiency requires next-generation products which can overcome the restrictions of existing equipment and manufacturing methods. The Arkh.2G concept is the key.
The Arkh.2G concept will be explained in two parts.
Structure of the Arkh.2G
The Arkh.2G represents crystal oscillators which embed Arkh series crystal resonators in ceramic packages.
The main difference from conventional products is that the Arkh series crystal resonators, which are hermetically sealed finished products, are used in place of quartz crystal elements. This offers many advantages.
Generally, to mount a quartz crystal element in a ceramic package, conductive adhesive is applied to two points to secure the quartz crystal element. The amount, position, and hardness of the adhesive, which comes into direct contact with the quartz crystal resonator, are crucial factors and require sophisticated control.
The Arkh.2G makes it possible to prevent the adhesive from coming into contact with the quartz crystal resonators in the mounting process because the Arkh series crystal resonators, which are finished products, are used in place of quartz crystal elements. This eliminates the need for sophisticated control in applying the adhesive.
In addition, the Arkh series crystal resonators are embedded in the dual Arkh.2G ceramic packages and are therefore immune to outgassed materials of the adhesive. Thus, their age deterioration is minimal compared to that of conventional products, making it possible to enhance precision.
The dual package structure of the Arkh.2G also offers a significant advantage in realizing higher frequencies. Generation of higher frequencies requires thinner quartz crystal elements, which become more susceptible to the stress of the adhesive.
However, the Arkh.2G dual package structure can completely block the stress and suppress changes in properties, making it possible to maintain stable performance. Conventional products can be replaced smoothly because the appearance is identical with that of conventional products.
Embedding of the Arkh series crystal resonators also offers many advantages in manufacturing. The Arkh.2G structure offers overall cost advantages, including enhanced BCP (Business Continuity Plan) capabilities through simplified manufacturing processes, automation of manufacturing processes, and improved yields.
The advantages in manufacturing and improvement in production efficiency will be explained in more detail in the next story.