Why is 10 MHz cited as the reference frequency?

[Ruebenn]

Hi all ,

I have a somewhat strange question in which i hope i can get some replies.
Of all the frequencies value out there , why does everyone only mention about the 10 MHz as the reference frequency?
I can think of the 10 MHz crystal structure but anything else ?
Appreciate the help and advise.

Rgds
Ruben

 

[Mikishots]

Hi all ,

I have a somewhat strange question in which i hope i can get some replies.
Of all the frequencies value out there , why does everyone only mention about the 10 MHz as the reference frequency?
I can think of the 10 MHz crystal structure but anything else ?
Appreciate the help and advise.

Rgds
Ruben

It's kind of a historic thing. 10 MHz crystals have a really good temperature coefficient and are therefore pretty darn stable in most temperatures. The frequency stability of the 10 MHz is more than double of what's required for modern telecomm systems.

 

[Hershal]

Mikishots is correct. It is interesting to note that 10MHz is typically the reference frequency for Time/Frequency, and 50MHz for RF/Microwave. The reasons are typically the same, stability is one of the main considerations, so a stable reference is possible.