Oscillators: stability, tuning, noise

A short review of oscillator noise theory development is presented. Two types of harmonic oscillators are considered in the review: quartz crystal oscillators and voltage controlled oscillators. Development of the noise theory in connection with steady-state operation theory and stability theory is discussed from the early stages to modern state. Three basic characteristics are considered for each type of the oscillator output power, tuning range, PM-AM noise. Connections between these characteristics for each type of the oscillators are considered and discussed. Methods of the oscillators noise analysis are classified. The advantages and shortcomings of each method are analyzed and the areas of their application for oscillator development and design are discussed.