A second in a CITIZEN watch is born from the innovation of the crystal. As a member of the CITIZEN Group, CITIZEN FINEDEVICE has been producing crystal devices, the heart of accurate timekeeping in watches, since 1976. We continuously improve the efficiency of our production processes and support CITIZEN watches by achieving mass production.
CITIZEN FINEDEVICE’s 32.768kHz crystal is indispensable not only in the watch industry but also in time measurement and automation across various industries. CITIZEN FINEDEVICE, which has been producing accurate timekeeping crystal for many years, is highly regarded for its technological prowess and reliability.
Technological Prowess and Reliability of CITIZEN FINEDEVICE
CITIZEN FINEDEVICE has obtained ISO14001 and ISO9001 certifications, maintaining
high standards in both environmental (EMS) and quality (QMS) management. Particularly, having supplied CITIZEN watches for about 50 years, we boast unparalleled technology in 32.768kHz crystal device. Our crystal device achieves high precision and reliability through precise engineering and advanced cutting techniques.
The Appeal of the 32.768kHz “CM315D”
The “CM315D” is our most popular 32.768kHz tuning fork model. With dimensions of 3.2×1.5×0.9mm, it is an SMD type suitable for high-density mounting. Electronic devices are easier to design using power of 2. The reason for choosing the frequency of 32.768kHz is that this number is 2 to the 15th power (2^15). While it is possible to measure one second with a low frequency, if it is not a power of 2 like 10kHz, counting the vibrations becomes complex, making the design of electronic devices burdensome and difficult. This characteristic allows for a frequency deviation as minimal as +/-5ppm, enabling accurate time measurement and supporting various applications such as IoT devices, sensors, automation equipment, and smart meters.
High Precision and Stability
The “CM315D” offers high precision and stability, and its small size and energy efficiency make it suitable for battery-powered devices. It also excels in reliability and shock resistance, delivering stable performance even in harsh environments. This makes it a reliable choice for designers and usable in various industries.
Precise Engineering and Advanced Cutting Techniques
When a crystal unit is cut from artificial quartz rock, the characteristics obtained differ considerably according to the angle with respect to the crystallographic plane. To meet our customers’ stringent requirements, we employ a unique wire saw cutting technology. This advanced technology involves reciprocating a thin wire containing abrasive particles at high speed, resulting in less cutting surplus and improved productivity and cutting accuracy compared to traditional blade saws. By polishing the precisely cut wafers, we achieve high precision in shape and thickness.
Superior Surface Finish through Chemical Processing
CITIZEN FINEDEVICE’s technology also includes chemical processing, which uses the corrosive effects of chemicals to cut materials. This process is essential for refining surfaces and processing compact, high-precision crystal chips that are difficult to achieve with traditional machining. This fundamental technology is crucial for achieving the high precision and quality expected by our customers. Furthermore, advancements in technology have significantly improved polishing techniques. For example, while surface roughness was previously limited to a certain level, it is now possible to achieve a very smooth finish, further enhancing product performance and reliability.
Advanced Assembly Techniques for Optimal Performance
The assembly process is crucial for providing external electrical conduction to piezoelectric devices. Assembly precision greatly impacts the overall quality of the product. To support this, we incorporate advanced technologies such as reflow and laser into automated machinery, enabling mass production with minimal equipment. We also adopt various assembly methods depending on the product type. For example, the adhesive method enhances the damper effect to stabilize vibrations and ensure consistent performance.
Hermetic Seals to Ensure Longevity and Reliability
Sealing is an important step to prevent the degradation of product characteristics during the manufacturing process. We adopt the optimal sealing method for each product’s shape. The key to effective sealing is maintaining hermeticity, and our advanced technology is fully utilized in this process. Ensuring hermetic seals maintains the integrity and longevity of our products, enhancing reliability in various applications.
Continuously Evolving Technology
Currently, CITIZEN FINEDEVICE is also working on further improvements to the “CM315DL,” a Low ESR model of the “CM315D.” The “CM315DL” is ideal for products aimed at reducing standby power. Even with microcontrollers that have become smaller with faster processing, stable oscillation is possible. Due to its Low ESR, it remains resistant to frequency changes while maintaining low capacitance sensitivity. These features allow us to better meet your device needs. Our crystal technology is constantly evolving, delivering products that exceed your expectations.
CITIZEN FINEDEVICE’s 32.768kHz crystal devices, the “CM315D series” and “CM315DL series,” play an important role in time measurement and automation not only in the watch industry but also in IoT devices, sensors, automation equipment, and smart meters. Experience their exceptional performance and reliability. CITIZEN FINEDEVICE’s crystal devices are the optimal choice to lead your business to success. We spare no effort to ensure your business succeeds. Please try CITIZEN FINEDEVICE’s crystal devices and experience their exceptional performance and reliability.
