Choosing the Right Oscillator for Wi-Fi 7 Applications
Choosing the Right Oscillator for Wi-Fi 7 Applications
With Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be) becoming the new connectivity standard, ultra-fast speeds and real-time multi-link transmission are reshaping the wireless landscape. It’s important to understand how to choose the right crystal oscillator for your next-generation Wi-Fi devices.
The Wi-Fi 7 Evolution: Higher Speeds, Higher Demands
Wi-Fi 7 introduces cutting-edge technologies such as 46 Gbps data rates, 4096-QAM modulation, and Multi-Link Operation (MLO). These innovations boost multi-device performance, spectrum efficiency, and bandwidth utilization. Applications range from 8K streaming and AR/VR to smart home systems, remote collaboration, and industrial automation.
To support these advancements, timing accuracy is more critical than ever. Crystal oscillators (XOs) provide the essential frequency source to ensure system synchronization and data integrity.
Which Crystal Oscillator Is Best for Wi-Fi 7?
When choosing the best crystal oscillator for a Wi-Fi 7 application, engineers must consider Wi-Fi 7’s advanced modulation and the high data rates that demand tighter phase noise and jitter performance. Poor phase noise or excessive jitter can lead to higher symbol error rates (SER), degraded signal quality, and overall instability in data transmission. The crystal oscillator necessary to enable optimal Wi-Fi system performance and filter out extraneous noise depends on the specific frequency band:
Key Timing Requirements for Wi-Fi 7 Modules
- 320 MHz Ultra-Wide Channels + 4096-QAM High-Density Modulation
A narrower margin for error requires ultra-low phase noise and highly stable frequency output. - Multi-Band Concurrent Transmission (2.4/5.0 /6.0 GHz)
Requires multiple output or differential signal oscillators (XO / TCXO) to drive synchronized channels. - Multi-User and Multi-Link Operation (MU-MIMO & MLO)
Demands exceptional jitter control and timing consistency, especially under high-frequency carrier operation.
What Happens If the Wrong
Oscillator Is Used in a Wi-Fi 7 System?
Choosing the wrong oscillator can lead to a variety of problems, potentially hindering the intended functionality of the device, including:
- Frequency drift causing dropped connections
- Multi-link desynchronization, reducing total throughput
- Increased RF interference, compromising module stability
- Elevated Bit Error Rates (BER)
Aker Technology: A Trusted Supplier of Crystal Oscillators for Wi-Fi 7
As a dedicated frequency component developer for wireless applications, Aker Technology delivers comprehensive XO and TCXO solutions tailored to the demanding requirements of Wi-Fi 7. Our oscillators provide high precision, low phase noise, and long-term frequency stability to ensure optimal timing performance for a variety of frequencies and applications.
| Model | Related Freq | Application |
|---|---|---|
| CMOS OSC | 26 / 40 / 52 MHz | IoT & Communication Modules |
| TCXO | 26 / 40 / 52 MHz | Laptops & Mobile Devices |
| Differential LVDS OSC Differential LVPECL OSC |
100 / 125 MHz | Routers, PCIe Interfaces & SerDes Links |
| SMD Type XTAL | 16/26/38.4/40/48/52/60/76.8/80/96 MHz | External Clocking for SoCs / MCUs |
The Wi-Fi 7 Boom Is Coming—Is Your Design Ready?
From 2025 to 2027, Wi-Fi 7 is expected to roll out globally across connected devices, including:
- Smart home appliances
- Cloud gaming platforms
- AI-powered electronics
- Industrial control and automotive connectivity modules
Contact us today to request samples and technical consultation for Wi-Fi 7–optimized crystal oscillator solutions—and take the lead in the next generation of wireless speed.
