Is the 32.768 Khz crystal oscillator on the NRF8001 really necessary if I don't care too much about current consumption?

[polishdude20]

I see the NRF8001 doesn't necessarily require the 32.768 Khz oscillator to function. My understanding is it's useful to preserve power. If I'm not worried about power draw of the device, is it fine to leave out the crystal and use the internal oscillator? Or does an external oscillator offer more than just power savings?

[Simonr]

Hi

That is correct. The external 32.768kHz crystal is useful to preserve power. You can also find external crystals that are more accurate than the internal RC oscillator if that is relevant to your design. The RC oscillator operates within ±250 ppm while there are some external oscillators that are as accurate as ±20 ppm. If this is not relevant to your application, it is fine to leave the 32.768 kHz crystal out of your design.

Best regards,

Simon