FCT-8M 32.768kHz SMD RTC Crystal for MCU/RTC
SMD 8.0 x 3.8 mm, 32.768kHz, AEC-Q200 Available
FEATURE
Product Description
FCT-8M — 32.768 kHz SMD Tuning Fork Crystal (3.8×8.0 mm)
FCom Fuji Crystal FCT-8M is a production-ready 32.768kHz tuning fork RTC crystal in an industry-standard 3.8×8.0mm SMD package. Built for automated pick-and-place and reflow soldering, it offers multiple load capacitance options to match mainstream MCU/RTC designs in low-power timekeeping and always-on clock domains.

Overview
FCT-8M 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. Its industry-standard 3.8×8.0mm SMD package helps reduce redesign risk and accelerates qualification when migrating from legacy 32k crystals.
- Stable time base for always-on and deep-sleep domains.
- CL options aligned with mainstream reference designs.
- SMT and reflow ready for volume manufacturing.
For a broader view of tuning fork timing crystals and selection logic, you may also reference our portfolio pages.
- Tuning Fork Crystals Overview
- Frequency Crystals Portfolio
- What Are Timing Devices?
- 32.768 kHz RTC Crystal Guide for Industrial, Auto & Medical
- Why 32,768 Hz Rules: From Quartz Watches to RTCs
- Tuning-Fork vs AT-cut: Choosing the Right Quartz for Low Power
- MC-306 (32.768 kHz) NRND Drop-In Replacement / Design Guide
- MC-146 (32.768 kHz) NRND Drop-In Replacement / Design Guide
- RTC Crystal Family – Industrial / Automotive / Medical
Key Features
Engineering Highlights
- Nominal frequency: 32.768 kHz.
- CL options: 6 / 7 / 9 / 12.5 pF (custom on request).
- Low drive requirement suitable for battery-powered systems.
- ESR control supports reliable RTC start-up when matched to the IC.
- Operating temperature: -40~90 °C.
Production & Procurement
- Industry-standard 3.8×8.0mm footprint.
- Optimized for automated placement and reflow soldering.
- RoHS & REACH documentation available with controlled revisions.
- Lot traceability and CoC support for project qualification.
Design Tips
Load Capacitance Selection
- Match CL to the effective load seen at the RTC/MCU pins.
- Account for internal capacitor settings and PCB parasitics.
- When uncertain, validate with two adjacent CL options during EVT.
Start-up Validation
- Verify oscillation across temperature corners and battery range.
- Confirm cold-start and wake-from-deep-sleep stability.
- Review ESR margin against the IC’s negative resistance guideline.
Drive Level Control
- Keep drive within the specified maximum (typ. 1.0 µW) to protect long-term stability.
- Excess drive may accelerate aging and frequency drift.
- Follow chip vendor recommendations for oscillator gain settings.
Electrical Specifications
| Parameter | Symbol | Specification | Unit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nominal Frequency | F | 32.768 | kHz | at 25±5°C |
| Frequency Tolerance (options) | FT | ±5 / ±10 / ±20 | ppm | |
| Operating Temperature | Topr | -40 to +90 | °C | Shown as -40~90°C in ordering |
| Load Capacitance | CL | 6 / 7 / 9 / 12.5 or specified | pF | |
| Drive Level (Max.) | DL | 1.0 | µW | |
| Equivalent Series Resistance (Max.) | ESR | 50 | kΩ | |
| Shunt Capacitance (Typical) | C0 | 1.6 | pF | |
| Temperature Coefficient (Parabolic) | — | -0.035 ± 0.01 | ppm/°C² | |
| Insulation Resistance | — | ≥ 500 | MΩ | DC100V ±15V |
| Aging (Typical) | — | ± 3 | ppm | First year |
Stability vs Temperature
Like most tuning fork RTC crystals, FCT-8M exhibits a predictable parabolic frequency-temperature characteristic. System-level time accuracy depends on the selected tolerance grade, CL matching, oscillator margin and the end-product’s real thermal profile.
- Use tighter tolerance options for stricter OS time budgets.
- Validate frequency offset at your real CL and layout.
- Consider calibration/compensation strategies in wide daily temperature swings.
Recommended Applications
Stable low-power RTC timing for always-on sensing and intermittent wake-up.
Reliable time base for low-duty-cycle wireless sensors and controllers.
Long-life timekeeping with mature 3.8×8.0mm supply ecosystem.
Package
FCT-8M adopts an industry-standard 3.8×8.0mm SMD tuning fork crystal package designed for automated assembly and reflow soldering. This mature footprint helps simplify cross-vendor qualification and minimizes redesign risk for RTC and low-power MCU platforms.
- Package size: 3.8 × 8.0 mm (SMD)
- Automation-ready for high-volume SMT
- Suitable for mainstream RTC/MCU reference designs
Resources

Get Pricing & Samples
Selection Checklist
- Model FCT-8M
- Frequency 32.768 kHz
- CL 6 / 7 / 9 / 12.5 pF
- Tolerance ±5 / ±10 / ±20 ppm
- Temp Range -40~90°C
Procurement-Friendly Part Description (Example)
| Field | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Series | Product family | FCT-8M |
| Frequency | Nominal frequency | 32.768k |
| CL | Load capacitance | CL12.5 |
| Tolerance | Frequency tolerance | 10ppm |
| Temp Range | Operating range | -40~90 |
Selection Path / Upgrade Options
- Explore the broader family for different footprints and supply ecosystems: RTC Crystal Family
- Related 32.768kHz SMD RTC crystals: FCT-2M, FCT-3M, FCT-6M
- Design & selection references: Industrial/Automotive/Medical RTC Guide and Tuning-Fork vs AT-cut
RFQ Information
| Recommended Order Information | |
|---|---|
| Model | FCT-8M |
| Frequency | 32.768 kHz |
| CL | 6 / 7 / 9 / 12.5 pF (target) |
| Tolerance | ±5 / ±10 / ±20 ppm (target) |
| Temperature Range | -40~90°C |
| Annual Volume | ____ pcs |
| Target First-Build Date | ____ |
FAQ
Is FCT-8M footprint-compatible with common 32k SMD crystals?
FCT-8M follows an industry-standard 3.8×8.0mm SMD form factor. For best results, verify pad dimensions, orientation and electrical limits against your MCU/RTC reference circuit.
How can I improve first-pass oscillation start-up?
- Place the crystal close to the RTC/MCU pins and keep traces short.
- Avoid routing near high-frequency clocks, DC/DC switches, RF sections or high-current loops.
- Maintain a clean ground reference and symmetric routing.
- Ensure actual drive level and effective load match the crystal spec.
Can FCom provide special CL or tighter tolerance versions?
Yes. The parameters on this page reflect common options. FCom can support custom CL, tighter tolerance, or project-specific reliability combinations upon engineering review.
What about MOQ, lead time, samples, packaging, and test reports?
This product is quoted on request. Contact FCom for MOQ and lead time, sample availability, packaging options, and test/report needs. Custom CL and special screening can be supported upon review.
Contact FCom Fuji Crystal
If you are evaluating a 32.768kHz RTC solution or need a stable, production-ready supply option with responsive engineering support, reach out to FCom for samples, pricing and design-in assistance.
ISO9001: Certificate / Announcement | ISO14001: Certificate / Announcement
For application engineering support (layout review, start-up margin checks, CL validation), contact technical support via Contact.
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