Agilent Technologies 53200 RF and universal frequency counter/timer series

Agilent Technologies has introduced the 53200 RF and universal frequency counter/timer series, said to be the first frequency counters with LXI class C compliance.

The series is built with standard computing I/O for ease of connectivity and data collection. The combination of high-speed measurement and built-in analysis provides functionality previously unavailable in basic frequency counter/timers.

The series has base bandwidth of 350 MHz with options to extend to 15 GHz. Measurement reading speed has increased by more than twice from the previous generation. The resolution performance is up to 12 digits/s continuous-count gap free frequency resolution and 20 ps single-shot time interval resolution, giving what is claimed to be the highest capabilities in its class.

LXI/ethernet and USB 2.0 are standard features, making it quick and simple to connect to a PC test system instrument or a network. The series includes internal memory of 1 M readings and supports a USB memory stick, making storing and retrieving data from the counter fast and easy.

A large 4.3″ graphical display offers viewing for fast trigger and instrument set-up and the series has built-in post measurement analysis, internal reading memory and fast data transfer speeds, expanding the capabilities beyond the typical general-purpose frequency counter.

Maths and statistical information, including basic modulation domain analysis, simple jitter analysis, Allan deviation and histograms, allow engineers in design and manufacturing to view the history of their measurements quickly and see the quality and performance of their signal.

The optional battery supports remote usage and maintenance of accurate measurements by keeping the timebase warm at all times. The series is SCPI compatible with the company’s current generation of RF/universal frequency counters (53131A, 53132A, 53181A). An optional GPIB interface is available to meet any legacy system compatibility requirements.