FCT-6M 32.768kHz 6.9×1.4mm RTC Crystal for IoT
SMD 6.9 x 1.4 mm, 32.768kHz, AEC-Q200 Available
FEATURE
Product Description
FCT-6M — 32.768 kHz SMD Tuning Fork Crystal (6.9×1.4 mm)
Long-narrow 6.9×1.4×1.3mm SMD tuning fork crystal for RTC and always-on time base domains. CL options align with mainstream MCU/RTC reference designs, with controlled ESR and low maximum drive.
Overview
FCT-6M is a 32.768 kHz tuning fork crystal intended for real-time clock (RTC) and low-power time base functions in MCUs, PMICs and dedicated RTC ICs. The 6.9×1.4mm SMD package targets narrow PCB keep-outs and compact product envelopes while maintaining practical CL options and controlled ESR for robust oscillation start-up.
For design engineers
- Common CL options (6 / 7 / 9 / 12.5 pF) to match mainstream RTC/MCU oscillator networks.
- ESR ≤ 65 kΩ and max drive 1.0 µW to support start-up and long-term stability.
- Predictable parabolic temperature behavior for practical timekeeping error budgeting.
For procurement & program teams
- Standardized 6914 SMD format for automated placement and reflow workflows.
- RoHS & REACH documentation and lot traceability available for qualification packages.
- Clear RFQ checklist (volume, CL, tolerance grade, temperature range) to accelerate quoting.
Key Features
Engineering highlights
- Nominal frequency: 32.768 kHz
- Operating temperature: -40 to +85 °C
- Load capacitance (CL): 6 / 7 / 9 / 12.5 pF (custom on request)
- Frequency tolerance options: ±5 / ±10 / ±20 ppm (defined range depends on ordering option)
- ESR (max): 65 kΩ
- Drive level (max): 1.0 µW
- Shunt capacitance (typ.): 0.8 pF
- Aging (typ.): ±3 ppm (first year)
Production & procurement
- Package: 6.9 × 1.4 × 1.3 mm, 4-pad SMD (pick-and-place and reflow compatible)
- Compliance: RoHS & REACH documentation available with controlled revisions
- Quality support: CoC, lot traceability, and qualification support on request
- Automotive screening: AEC-Q200 availability can be evaluated based on your program needs
Test conditions reminder: unless otherwise specified, frequency values are typically measured at 25 ± 5°C with defined load capacitance (CL) per datasheet.
Design Tips
Load capacitance selection
Match the crystal’s CL to the effective load at the RTC/MCU pins. A common approximation is:
- Include internal capacitor settings (if your IC provides them) plus PCB stray capacitance.
- When uncertain, validate two adjacent CL options during EVT to reduce first-pass risk.
Start-up validation & ESR margin
- Check oscillation start-up across temperature corners and battery range.
- Review ESR margin against your IC’s negative resistance guideline.
- Confirm cold-start and wake-from-deep-sleep behavior on your final PCB stack-up.
Drive level control
- Keep drive within the specified maximum (1.0 µW) to protect long-term stability.
- Excess drive may accelerate aging and frequency drift.
- Follow MCU/RTC vendor guidance for oscillator gain or bias settings.
Layout guidance for a cleaner 32k domain
- Place the crystal as close as possible to the RTC/MCU pins; keep traces short and symmetric.
- Avoid routing near DC/DC switches, fast clocks, RF traces, or high-current loops.
- Maintain a clean ground reference; do not route crystal traces across split ground planes.
- Use an appropriate local bypass strategy per your IC reference design.
These tips are intentionally concise for a product page. If you share your RTC/MCU part number and schematic, FCom can provide deeper review guidance for qualification.
Electrical Specifications
| Parameter | Symbol | Specification | Unit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nominal Frequency | F | 32.768 | kHz | Test condition: 25 ± 5°C, RH 40%–70% |
| Frequency Tolerance (at 25°C) | FT | ±5 / ±10 / ±20 | ppm | Option: specified over -20~70°C or -40~85°C |
| Operating Temperature | Topr | -40 to +85 | °C | Ordering option dependent |
| Load Capacitance | CL | 6 / 7 / 9 / 12.5 (or specified) | pF | Custom CL on request |
| Drive Level (Max.) | DL | 1.0 | µW | Control drive for stability |
| Equivalent Series Resistance (Max.) | ESR | 65 | kΩ | Verify start-up margin vs IC |
| Shunt Capacitance (Typical) | C0 | 0.8 | pF | Typical value |
| Temperature Coefficient (Parabolic) | — | -0.035 ± 0.01 | ppm/°C² | Parabolic curve near turnover |
| Insulation Resistance | — | ≥ 500 | MΩ | DC100V ±15V |
| Aging (Typical) | — | ± 3 | ppm | First year |
Stability vs Temperature
Like most tuning fork RTC crystals, FCT-6M exhibits a predictable parabolic frequency-temperature characteristic around its turnover temperature (typically near 25°C). System-level time accuracy depends on the selected tolerance grade, CL matching, oscillator margin, and the end-product’s real thermal profile.
Practical accuracy levers
- Choose tighter tolerance options (e.g., ±5 ppm) if your time budget is strict.
- Validate frequency offset at your actual CL and PCB parasitic conditions.
- Consider firmware calibration/compensation in wide daily temperature swings.
Engineer note
A simplified model often used for tuning fork crystals is:
Use this model for first-order budgeting only; confirm with your system measurements and the latest datasheet.
Recommended Applications
Consumer & compact electronics
- Wearables and health devices requiring always-on timekeeping
- Smart home and IoT nodes with deep-sleep and periodic wake-up
- Portable data loggers and battery-powered controllers
Why these specs matter: controlled ESR and low max drive help keep start-up robust while preserving long-term stability in battery-operated products.
Telecom & narrow-layout systems
- Small mobile telecommunication devices and compact timing modules
- Systems with slim PCB design requirements and constrained keep-out areas
- Products requiring stable RTC behavior over -40 to +85°C
Why these specs matter: long-narrow 6914 footprint helps routing in dense layouts while keeping CL options aligned to common RTC oscillator networks.
Application guides (selection & design)
Package & Dimensions
FCT-6M uses a long-narrow 6.9×1.4×1.3mm SMD package designed for automated assembly. For pad layout and orientation, refer to the mechanical drawing and confirm the pin-1 marker in your pick-and-place flow.
Key mechanical data
| Item | Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Package size | 6.9 × 1.4 × 1.3 mm | Long-narrow SMD (4-pad) |
| Electrode arrangement | 4-pad | Use drawing for pad numbering/orientation |
| Assembly | Pick-and-place + reflow | Confirm profile per latest datasheet |

Ordering Code / Options
Common ordering options
- Frequency: 32.768 kHz
- CL: 6 / 7 / 9 / 12.5 pF (custom on request)
- Tolerance grade: ±5 / ±10 / ±20 ppm (at 25°C)
- Temperature range: -20~70°C or -40~85°C (confirm by option)
- Screening / compliance pack: CoC, RoHS/REACH, lot traceability (on request)
Selection Path / Upgrade Options
- RTC Crystal Family (Industrial / Automotive / Medical)
- FCT-2M 32.768kHz Tuning Fork Crystal
- FCT-3M 32.768kHz Tuning Fork Crystal
- FCT-8M 32.768kHz Tuning Fork Crystal
If you share your RTC/MCU part number and target accuracy, FCom can recommend the best CL/tolerance combination and validate oscillator margin.
Downloads
Datasheet
Certifications
Resources
Download
What to verify in your design review
- Target CL option and the effective CL at your RTC pins
- ESR margin vs the RTC/MCU negative resistance guideline
- Drive level under worst-case gain settings and temperature
- Start-up behavior during cold-start and wake-from-sleep
If you share your MCU/RTC part number, oscillator network, and target accuracy budget, FCom can help review margins.
Get Pricing & Samples
RFQ / sample request checklist
- Model: FCT-6M
- Frequency: 32.768 kHz
- CL target: 6 / 7 / 9 / 12.5 pF (or specify)
- Tolerance target: ±5 / ±10 / ±20 ppm
- Temperature range: -20~70°C or -40~85°C (confirm)
- Annual volume: ____ pcs
- Target first-build date: ____
- RTC/MCU part number: ____ (helps engineer review ESR/drive margins)
For formal procurement packages, please request: RoHS/REACH statements, CoC, and lot traceability requirements.
Procurement-friendly part description (example)
| Field | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Series | Product family | FCT-6M |
| Frequency | Nominal frequency | 32.768k |
| CL | Load capacitance | CL12.5 |
| Tolerance | Frequency tolerance grade | 10ppm |
| Temp range | Operating range | -40~85 |
FAQ
How do I choose CL for FCT-6M?
Select CL to match the effective load at the RTC/MCU pins: CL ≈ (C1×C2)/(C1+C2) + Cstray. Account for internal capacitors and PCB parasitics. When uncertain, validate two adjacent CL options during EVT.
What ensures reliable start-up?
Verify ESR margin vs your IC’s negative resistance guideline across temperature and supply corners. Keep traces short/symmetric and away from switching nodes. Confirm drive level stays below the specified maximum.
Is FCT-6M reflow compatible?
Yes—FCT-6M is supplied in an SMD package intended for pick-and-place and reflow soldering. For production release, confirm the latest datasheet and your assembly profile with FCom.
Can I request custom options?
Yes. Custom CL values, tighter tolerance, or project-specific reliability combinations may be supported upon review. Share your RTC/MCU, target accuracy budget, temperature range, and annual volume in your RFQ.
Do you publish pricing online? How do I get a quote?
Pricing is provided by RFQ because it depends on CL option, tolerance grade, screening, packaging, and annual volume. Send your checklist via email RFQ or the contact page for a formal quote.
What are typical MOQ and lead time?
MOQ and lead time depend on the exact option (CL/tolerance/temperature) and current production schedule. FCom supports sampling for evaluation and volume supply for production—share your target date and annual volume to confirm.
Can I request samples before mass production?
Yes. Samples are available for engineering validation. Include your RTC/MCU part number, target CL, and temperature range so we can recommend the best option for your oscillator margin.
What documents can you provide for qualification?
RoHS/REACH statements, CoC, lot traceability, and qualification support can be provided upon request. If you need specific test reports, list them in your RFQ.
Contact
If you are evaluating a 32.768kHz RTC solution—or need procurement support for qualification and documentation—please reach out.
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