LC Oscillator
LC oscillators play a crucial role in electronics, generating high-frequency
signals for various applications, from radio communication to signal
processing. This presentation explores the fundamental principles, different
types, and practical considerations of LC oscillators.
by Om Pukkalla
Introduction to Oscillators
1 What are Oscillators? 2 Purpose
Oscillators are electronic They are essential for
circuits that produce periodic, generating time-varying
oscillating waveforms. signals used in various
electronic applications.
3 LC Oscillators
LC oscillators specialize in producing high-frequency signals,
particularly in radio frequency (RF) applications.
What is an LC Oscillator?
Definition Basic Function
LC oscillators are electronic They utilize the energy
circuits that use an inductor (L) exchange between the
and a capacitor (C) to produce inductor's magnetic field and
oscillations. the capacitor's electric field to
create an oscillating waveform.
Types of Oscillators
Besides LC oscillators, other oscillator types include RC oscillators,
crystal oscillators, and relaxation oscillators.
The LC Circuit
1 Inductors
Inductors store energy in a magnetic field when current
flows through them.
2 Capacitors
Capacitors store energy in an electric field when a voltage is
applied across them.
3 Energy Exchange
The energy stored in the inductor's magnetic field is
transferred to the capacitor's electric field and vice versa,
resulting in oscillations.
Theory of LC Oscillations
Resonance Inductor Role Capacitor Role
An LC circuit resonates at a specific The inductor opposes changes in The capacitor opposes changes in
frequency determined by the values of current, causing the energy stored in voltage, causing the energy stored in
L and C. the magnetic field to release slowly. the electric field to discharge gradually.
Components of an LC Oscillator
Component Role
Inductor (L) Stores energy in a magnetic field, contributing to the
oscillation frequency.
Capacitor (C) Stores energy in an electric field, contributing to the
oscillation frequency.
Transistor Amplifies the signal and provides positive feedback,
sustaining the oscillations.
Working Principle of an LC
Oscillator
Step 1
1 The transistor amplifies a small initial signal, which is applied
to the LC circuit.
Step 2
2 The LC circuit resonates at its natural frequency, causing
energy to oscillate between the inductor and capacitor.
Step 3
3 The oscillating signal is fed back to the transistor's input,
providing positive feedback and sustaining the oscillations.
Feedback in Oscillators
1 Positive Feedback 2 Phase Shift
Positive feedback is essential The feedback network in an
for sustaining oscillations, oscillator introduces a
amplifying the signal to specific phase shift, usually 0
compensate for losses within or 180 degrees, to ensure that
the circuit. the feedback signal is in
phase with the input signal.
Barkhausen Criterion
Definition Phase Condition Importance
The Barkhausen Criterion states that The total phase shift around the The Barkhausen Criterion ensures
for sustained oscillations, the loop feedback loop must be a multiple of that the oscillations are self-
gain (product of amplifier gain and 360 degrees. sustaining and do not decay over
feedback network gain) must be time.
equal to 1.
Types of LC Oscillators
Hartley Oscillator
Uses a tapped inductor for feedback .
Colpitts Oscillator
Uses a tapped capacitor for feedback .
Clapp Oscillator
Uses a series capacitor for increased frequency stability
.
