Chapter 2 Operating Your Frequency Counter

Setting the Resolution and Measurement Rate

 

Resolution Setting Example

 

For the following example, use the 10 MHz output from the reference

 

timebase as the input to Channel 1.

 

1 Press the Resol key to enter the resolution-setting mode.

GPIB

The current resolution setting is displayed (the current value and the

Resol

 

indicator between the arrow keys are flashing to indicate that you can use

Enter

the up- and down-arrow keys to change the setting).

2Press the up-arrow or down-arrow key to decrease or increase the resolution.

You can press these keys as many times as necessary to locate the setting you want to use. The available resolution settings are 1 Hz (the default setting), 10 Hz, 100 Hz, 1 KHz, 10 KHz, 100 KHz, and 1 MHz.

3Press the Enter key to activate your setting and exit the resolution-setting mode.

The setting you chose is now in effect. The number of digits displayed for the measurement is adjusted accordingly; you can observe the affect on measurement speed by monitoring the flash rate of the Gate indicator.

NOTE

The measurement resolution has a direct effect on the amount of time the

 

Counter requires to complete a measurement. Measurements made at the

 

Counter’s maximum resolution setting (1 Hz) are noticeably slower than

 

at lower resolutions. This is especially noticeable when the Counter is set

 

to average a number of measurements.

 

 

2

Operating Guide

2-15

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Agilent Technologies 53152A, 53150A Resolution Setting Example, Press the Resol key to enter the resolution-setting mode

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.