>     Now, this gadget needs to run at 20MHz, so I'm soldering the XTAL
> pins at those PCB holes made for the two LEDs. The thing is working
> very well, but I don't have where to place the two (15-33pF) XTAL
> capacitors on this PCB.
>
>     My question is: Can I just leave out those caps? I know the caps
>     are
> needed for giving the oscillator better stability, but if this little
> gadget are working ok without the caps, will it do any harm? Like
> someday this gadget wouldn't startup, or will it suddenly stop...

Hi Brusque,

May I suggest you use a couple of 1206 size SMD caps and put them
under the board. They should be about the right size to fit between
the crystal pads and solder together in the middle then link to
ground somewhere close on your PCB. Knowing how flakey micro
oscillators can be at the best of times if it were my design I would
be happier if the caps were there.

--
Brent Brown, Electronic Design Solutions
16 English Street, Hamilton, New Zealand
Ph/fax: +64 7 849 0069
Mobile/txt: 025 334 069
eMail:  brent.brown@clear.net.nz

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