The HP 53181A is a 12 GHz frequency counter engineered for high-resolution frequency and time interval measurements in telecommunications, aerospace, and metrology applications. It delivers 10 digits/second frequency resolution, 500 ps time interval resolution, and fast acquisition for demanding test automation workflows. Channel 1 covers DC to 225 MHz; optional Channel 2 extends measurements to 1.5 GHz, 3 GHz, 5 GHz, or 12.4 GHz depending on configuration.
Technical Specifications
Frequency Measurement
• Channel 1: 0.1 Hz to 225 MHz
• Channel 2 (Option 015): 100 MHz to 1.5 GHz
• Channel 2 (Option 030): 100 MHz to 3 GHz
• Channel 2 (Option 050): 200 MHz to 5 GHz
• Channel 2 (Option 124): 200 MHz to 12.4 GHz
Resolution
• Frequency/period: 10 digits/second
• Time interval: 500 ps
• RMS jitter: 50 ps
Measurement Capabilities
• Frequency, period, ratio, peak voltage
• Time interval, pulse width, rise/fall time, phase angle, duty cycle, totalize
Sensitivity (Sinusoid)
• DC to 100 MHz: 20 mVrms to ±5 Vac
• 100 to 200 MHz: 30 mVrms to ±5 Vac
• 200 to 225 MHz: 40 mVrms to ±5 Vac
Input Impedance
• 1 MΩ (30 Hz to 225 MHz, AC coupled)
• 50 Ω (DC coupled)
Timebase Stability (10 MHz)
• Standard: <3 × 10⁻⁷/month
• Option 010: <1.55 × 10⁻⁸/month
• Option 012: <3 × 10⁻⁹/month
Power
• 100–120 Vac ±10%; 50, 60, 400 Hz ±10%
• 220–240 Vac ±10%; 50 Hz
– Key Features
• Dual-channel architecture with configurable upper frequency limits
• N-type connectors on 12.4 GHz channel; BNC on lower-frequency options
• Selectable impedance and AC/DC coupling for flexible signal conditioning
• Multiple timebase options for stability-critical metrology
– Typical Applications
• RF and microwave frequency validation
• Telecommunications signal characterization
• Precision timing and phase measurements
• Aerospace component testing
– Compatibility & Integration
Channel 2 is available exclusively on the 53181A. Channel 3 support requires 53131A or 53132A models.
