Chapter 2 Operating Your Frequency Counter

Setting the Number of Averages

 

 

Setting the Number of Averages

 

 

You can set the Counter to take a variable number of frequency, power,

 

 

or voltage measurements and average them mathematically before

 

 

displaying the result. You can use this feature to determine the effective

 

 

measurement of a signal that is fluctuating. When measuring the

 

 

frequency of a fluctuating signal, you can also use averaging to retain

 

 

some of the precision of a maximum-resolution measurement.

 

 

The default number of averages is 1, which means that no averages are

 

 

performed, and the maximum setting is 99. Note that the tens position

 

 

(10 through 90) and the units position (0 through 9) are adjusted

 

 

separately, and that it is not possible to set the number of averages to 0.

 

 

 

NOTE

 

When a large number of averages is selected for a frequency measurement

 

 

in combination with a high resolution setting (e.g., 1 Hz), it takes a

 

 

considerable amount of time for the Counter to take the measurements,

 

 

compute the averages, and display an initial reading. For example, when

 

 

the number of averages is set to 60, and the resolution is set to 1 Hz, the

 

 

first reading is displayed after 60 seconds (approximately). Subsequent

 

 

computations do not require as much time, since the averaging function

 

 

computes a running average. However, the rate at which the display is

 

 

updated after the initial average computation is also slower than at lower

 

 

resolution settings.

 

 

Averages Setting Example

 

 

 

1 Press the Avg key to enter the averages-setting mode.

Pwr

Offset

Avg

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

 

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

+/–

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

2Press the up-arrow or down-arrow key to decrease or increase the value for the units position of the number of averages.

2

Operating Guide

2-17

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Agilent Technologies 53151A, 53152A, 53150A manual Setting the Number of Averages, Averages Setting Example
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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.
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