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32.768 kHz Tuning Fork Crystal (Crystal Oscillator) — RTC Timing Element

A 32.768 kHz quartz tuning-fork crystal that provides the standard real-time clock (RTC) reference for microcontrollers, RTC ICs, and low-power timing circuits. Available in compact SMD and cylindrical through-hole packages.

Product Overview

The 32.768 kHz frequency equals 2^15, which makes it ideal for binary clock dividers in RTC circuits — a single 15-stage divider produces a precise 1 Hz tick for clock and calendar counters. These quartz tuning-fork crystals are the foundation of timekeeping in watches, utility meters, IoT sensor nodes, and any battery-powered device that must keep time while asleep.

Newfly supplies verified tuning-fork crystals in industry-standard footprints, simplifying drop-in placement and second-source qualification for your BOM.

Key Features

  • – Nominal frequency: 32.768 kHz (2^15 Hz)
  • – Quartz tuning-fork crystal resonator (passive timing element)
  • – Ultra-low power consumption for RTC applications
  • – Available in SMD (3215 / 2012) and cylindrical through-hole packages
  • – Tight frequency tolerance for accurate timekeeping
  • – RoHS-compliant construction

Technical Specifications

Parameter Specification
Nominal Frequency 32.768 kHz
Load Capacitance 12.5 pF typical (9 pF / 6 pF variants available; verify ordering code)
Frequency Tolerance ±20 ppm typical (verify with manufacturer datasheet)
Frequency Stability ±20 ppm over operating temperature (verify grade)
Equivalent Series Resistance (ESR) ≤ 70 kΩ typical (verify with manufacturer datasheet)
Package SMD 3215 (3.2×1.5 mm) / 2012; Cylindrical 2×6 mm / 3×8 mm through-hole
Operating Temperature -40°C to +85°C typical (verify grade)
Compliance RoHS (verify with manufacturer datasheet)

Applications

– Real-time clock (RTC) reference source

– Microcontroller low-power timing

– Watches and wearable devices

– Smart utility meters

– IoT sensor nodes

– Medical and portable devices

Why Choose Newfly Electronics

– Verified sourcing from ISO9001-certified manufacturers

– MOQ flexibility with small-quantity and prototype sourcing support

– Alternative-part and cross-reference service for standard crystal frequencies

– Full-board BOM sourcing to consolidate your component purchasing

– RoHS / REACH documentation support for compliance filing

FAQ

Q: Why is 32.768 kHz used for RTC circuits?

A: 32768 = 2^15, so a 15-stage binary divider converts the crystal frequency into a precise 1 Hz signal — perfect for clock and calendar counters.

Q: Is this an active oscillator or a passive crystal?

A: It is a passive quartz tuning-fork crystal. Pair it with the oscillator circuit inside your RTC IC or MCU; if you need a self-contained clock, request an active oscillator module instead.

Q: Which packages are available?

A: Common SMD (3215 / 2012) and cylindrical through-hole (2×6 mm / 3×8 mm) footprints are available — specify your required package and load capacitance when ordering.