Definition of Oscillator
Merriam-Webster defines an oscillator as a mechanism--electronic, mechanical or natural--that repeatedly fluctuates back and forth between two states, limits or points based on changes in energy to produce an output wave form or signal for a purpose.
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Etymology
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Oscillator comes from the Latin term "oscillare," meaning to swing or rock.
The Basic Oscillator
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The simplest type is mechanical, called a simple harmonic oscillator. It consists of an object attached to a linear spring that moves back and forth.
When static, the object is at equilibrium, but possesses potential---positional or conditional---energy. When displaced, the object's energy converts to kinetic---motion---energy, and the opposing restoring force of elasticity triggers an attempted return to equilibrium. However, momentum acquired during motion creates inertia, causing the object to overshoot equilibrium and increase the intensity of the elasticity. This constant interplay between elasticity and inertia produces the oscillating wave forms.
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The Electronic Oscillator
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An electronic oscillator is a circuit that produces a repetitive signal by utilizing a very sensitive amplifier whose output is attached to an electronic filter---or to a quartz crystal---which is fed back to the input of the amplifier at the same rate, creating a feedback loop that produces positive feedback, allowing the signal to regenerate and sustain itself.
Basic Function
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All oscillators, regardless of type, are devices that utilize a controlled back-and-forth movement of energy to generate a continuous wave form---or signal---for a purpose. Most often, these signals act like timers or pacemakers, allowing a mechanism to operate properly and stably.
Types
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Some mechanical oscillators include: pendulums, swings and stringed instruments. Electronic ones include: alternating current circuits or crystal oscillators--the latter utilized in clocks, computers, radios and mobile phones. The best known biological oscillator is the circadian oscillator, which regulates daily rhythms in the body using light.
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References
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