Here's some information from Fox Electronics web site (FAQ) that should help you (pertinent excerpts below): http://foxonline.com/techfaqs.htm#a4 4. The load capacitance (CL) of my parallel resonant crystal is rated at 20pF. How do I calculate the value of the load capacitors used in my parallel resonant oscillator circuit? Use this formula to approximate the value of capacitors needed: CL=((C1 x C2) / (C1 + C2)) + Cstray Cstray is the stray capacitance in the circuit, typically 2-5pF. If the oscillation frequency is high, the capacitor values should be increased to lower the frequency. If the frequency is low, the capacitor values should be decreased, thus raising the oscillation frequency. When CL =20pF, C1 and C2 will be approximately 27-33pF each, depending on the amount of stray capacitance. 11. What happens if I operate a crystal over its maximum drive level spec? Exceeding the maximum drive level (power dissipation) of a crystal can lead to an increased rate of aging, Drive Level Dependency (DLD) problems, increased number and intensity of activity dips that can stop oscillation and, at very high drive levels, breakage of the crystal blank. Best regards, Ken Pergola -- http://www.piclist.com#nomail Going offline? Don't AutoReply us! email listserv@mitvma.mit.edu with SET PICList DIGEST in the body