Hi Keith, If you have not done so, please read Microchip's application note AN588: PICmicro Microcontroller Oscillator Design Guide. This should address most of your questions. There are a lot of things to think about when choosing a crystal if you want to have a solid design over temperature, voltage, and time. It's definitely not as simple as throwing any crystal and load capacitors at the PIC and you're all set. Always observe and follow the crystal manufacturer's specs and follow Microchip's advice in the data sheets as well. When buying crystals or resonators, look carefully at the operating temperature specs. Ensure that it is rated to operate in the temperature your end-product will be subjected to. Best regards, Ken Pergola -- http://www.piclist.com hint: PICList Posts must start with ONE topic: [PIC]:,[SX]:,[AVR]: ->uP ONLY! [EE]:,[OT]: ->Other [BUY]:,[AD]: ->Ads