What are the benefits of using the external oscillator in high-gain mode?

[mwutley]

I'm using the MK20 series uC and trying to decide if I should set up the external oscillator in low-power or high-gain mode.

- Besides less power consumption, are there any other practical benefits to running in low-power mode?

- What are the benefits of high-gain mode? (i.e. is the oscillator more stable, easier to start up over a broad temperature range, etc.)

[bobpaddock]

I have no experience with the KM20 specifically.  In general terms low power oscillators tend to run at higher impedance opening them up to external influences such as EMI and board contamination issues that can show up in the field.  Been there done that. :-(

[mwutley]

Ahh makes sense. Thanks for the info!