Chapter 2 Operating Your Frequency Counter

Summary of the Measurement Sequence

2

NOTE

Summary of the Measurement Sequence

1.Turn on the Main ~ Power switch on the back panel, and then press and release the POWER button on the front panel.

The internal Reference Oscillator receives power only when the

Main ~ Power switch is on. Therefore, the frequency of the reference signal may drift until the oscillator stabilizes. Specifications for the stability of the standard internal timebase and the optional Oven Timebase are provided in Chapter 3.

2.Connect the input signal to the appropriate input connector (Channel 1 or Channel 2).

3.Connect an external reference signal to the External Reference connector on the back panel (if desired).

4.Press the Chan Select key to select the input channel (if necessary).

5.Press the Display Power key if you need to measure power (Channel 2 only).

6.Press the frequency and/or power Offset On/Off keys to enable offset measurements (if desired), and then use the Freq Offset (Shift + Rate) and/or Pwr Offset (Shift + Avg) keys to enter the offset values.

7.Use the Resol, Rate, and Avg keys to configure the display.

8.Use the Menu (Shift + Reset/Local) key to set the reference-oscillator source, to select the Channel 1 low-pass filter, to configure the Counter’s response to frequency modulation, to enable and configure Power Correction, and/or to select a previously saved set of user settings.

9.If you intend to operate the counter remotely using the GPIB, use the GPIB (Shift + Resol) key to configure the GPIB.

10.If you intend to operate the counter remotely using the serial interface, use the Menu (Shift + Reset/Local) key to adjust the serial port Baud rate.

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Operating Guide

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Agilent Technologies 53150A, 53152A, 53151A manual Summary of the Measurement Sequence

53151A, 53150A, 53152A specifications

Agilent Technologies, renowned for its cutting-edge electronic measurement equipment, produced a range of high-performance frequency counters, among which the 53150A, 53151A, and 53152A models stand out. These versatile instruments are designed to cater to various measurement applications in telecommunications, aerospace, and research and development.

The Agilent 53150A is a high-performance frequency counter that operates on a wide frequency range, capable of measuring frequencies up to 2.7 GHz. This model features a 10 Hz to 2.7 GHz measurement capability with a time interval resolution of 100 ps, making it ideal for accurately capturing fast signals. Additionally, it offers a built-in statistical analysis feature that enables users to perform precise measurements, minimizing uncertainty in data collection.

Equally impressive, the Agilent 53151A enhances capabilities further by introducing advanced measurement functions. This model supports frequency and time interval measurements up to 3.5 GHz and includes an additional mode for measuring CW frequency and period. The enhanced resolution of 50 ps allows users to capture even finer variations in measured signals. The 53151A also features a user-friendly graphical display, simplifying data visualization and interpretation.

The Agilent 53152A pushes performance to new heights with frequency measurements extending up to 7 GHz. This model incorporates a high-speed external timebase for increased accuracy and uses advanced signal processing technology to ensure reliable measurements, even in noisy environments. One of the standout features of the 53152A is its capability to interface with a variety of devices, enabling remote measurements and integration into automated testing environments.

All three models employ state-of-the-art technology and boast characteristics that enhance their usability. They feature multi-channel capability, allowing simultaneous measurements, which is critical for complex applications. Their robust design and compact form factor make them suitable for both laboratory and field use, ensuring versatility in different working environments.

In summary, Agilent Technologies’ 53150A, 53151A, and 53152A frequency counters combine exceptional measurement accuracy, a wide frequency range, and advanced functionalities tailored for professionals across various scientific and engineering disciplines. Whether measuring signal frequency, time intervals, or conducting statistical analyses, these models are engineered to meet the demanding requirements of today’s high-tech world.