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Oscillator start-up timer
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<p>An oscillator start-up timer (OST) is a module used by some <a href="/facts/Microcontroller/MKrnAhnm">microcontrollers</a> to keep the device reset until the <a href="/facts/Crystal_oscillator/QhhohzPu">crystal oscillator</a> is stable. When a crystal oscillator starts up, its frequency is not constant, which causes the <a href="/facts/Clock_signal/9UfTzGHx">clock</a> frequency to be non-constant. This would cause timing errors, leading to many problems. An oscillator start-up timer ensures that the device only operates when the oscillator generates a stable clock frequency. The <a href="/facts/PIC_microcontroller/NrRJCqHS">PIC microcontroller</a>'s oscillator start-up timer holds the device's reset for a 1024-oscillator-cycle delay to allow the oscillator to stabilize. </p>