Microelectromechanical system (MEMS) oscillators are timing devices designed and developed to replace quartz crystal oscillators. The Global MEMS Oscillator Market is in its early stages of growth, but is expected to grow quickly at a CAGR of 61.9 percent from 2014-2018, as the technology sees increased uptake.
TechNavio analysts have taken a look at a few reasons why MEMS are edging-out traditional quartz as the oscillator of choice.
Multiple Advantages
MEMS oscillators, which consists of resonators, and clock and timing generators can be combined and easily packaged on silicon substrates, they are smaller in size, very reliable, and have better mechanical shock, vibration resistance, and sustainability at high temperatures.
Vendors are now developing high-frequency stable MEMS oscillators at 25 ppm, yet another major advantage expected to increase the penetration rate of MEMS oscillators during the forecast period.
Increased Adoption in Mobile Devices
The market has also witnessed increased usage of MEMS oscillators for various applications in mobile devices. A typical mobile device usually contains 3-5 timing devices, with the number of applications increasing consistently.
Mobile devices are also becoming thinner to increase their portability, and MEMS oscillators occupy much less space compared to quartz crystal oscillators. Popular features of MEMS oscillators, such as high-frequency stability, shock and vibration resistance, and low power consumption, make them the perfect choice for integration in mobile devices.
Decline in ASP of MEMS Oscillators
Increased adoption and improved manufacturing technologies have led to a decline in the average selling price (ASP) of MEMS oscillators. New vendors entering the market have come up with innovative technologies to produce MEMS oscillators at low cost, and increased competition among vendors entering the market is expected to lead to a decline in the ASP of MEMS oscillators.
Rapid Advances in Technology
Continuous funding and increased focus on MEMS oscillators by several investors has helped the technology advance by leaps and bounds. Low noise jitter, increased frequency stability, and reduced power consumption are some of the features helping MEMS edge-out quartz oscillators. Technological advances in MEMS make these devices cost-effective, energy-saving and better in performance.
Increased R&D Spending
The Global MEMS Oscillator market has witnessed increased R&D spending for the development and commercialization of MEMS oscillators. Considering the immense market potential, several vendors are now making investments to facilitate the mass production of MEMS oscillators.
Increased focus on R&D and establishing partnership networks has helped vendors to introduce inexpensive solutions and products with more accuracy and better integration ability.
