Ferroelectric Resonator Oscillator
Navy SBIR FY2015.2


Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2015.2
Topic No.: N152-112
Topic Title: Ferroelectric Resonator Oscillator
Proposal No.: N152-112-0138
Firm: Physical Optics Corporation
1845 West 205th Street
Torrance, California 90501
Contact: Albert Cardona
Phone: (310) 320-3088
Web Site: www.poc.com
Abstract: To address the Navy�s need for a high-G mechanical shock- and temperature-shock-tolerant oscillator as a replacement for quartz temperature-compensated crystal oscillators (TCXOs), Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a new Ferroelectric Resonator Oscillator (FEROS). This proposed solution is based on a new design that utilizes mature POC-developed and commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) components. Specifically, the innovation in integration of a ferroelectric-based resonator with COTS oscillator circuitry will enable the FEROS to support precision frequency reference devices. FEROS offers performance comparable to quartz crystal devices, as well as microelectromechanical systems (MEMS)-based devices, with small form factors and the ability to withstand the harsh environment of a high velocity, gun-launched guided projectile, which directly addresses the Hyper Velocity Projectile, SHD FY15-17, PEO IWS 3C Surface Gunnery Program requirements for high-G miniaturized GPS receivers. In Phase I, POC will demonstrate the feasibility of FEROS by developing a prototype design and measuring its performance metrics such as phase noise, jitter, and temperature dependence, at an anticipated TRL-4. In Phase II, POC plans to build a refined prototype device and characterize its frequency accuracy, temperature stability, phase accuracy, and temperature and shock capabilities; it will be delivered at TRL-5/-6.
Benefits: High-performance ferroelectric resonator-based oscillators represent a technology competitive to quartz crystal and MEMS resonator oscillators. In clock generators or timing circuits, the demands for increasing performance; decreasing size and cost; and integration are increasing. Quartz crystal technology cannot keep up, and MEMS technology has yet to meet requirements, especially for high-frequency RF timing systems. FEROS technology can fill that gap.

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