The HP/Agilent 5316B Universal Counter measures frequency, period, time interval, ratio, and totalized events across multiple input channels. Built on a Multiple Register Counter (MRC) architecture, it delivers high-resolution measurements with excellent RFI immunity for laboratory and field applications.
## Technical Specifications
**Measurement Capabilities**
• Frequency: 0.1 Hz to 100 MHz (Channels A and B); extendable to 1 GHz with optional Channel C
• Period measurement of input signals
• Time interval: single-shot (100 ns resolution), averaging (10 ps resolution), and delay mode
• Ratio measurement (A/B)
• Totalize and gated totalize (A gated by B)
**Frequency Resolution**
• Below 10 MHz: reciprocal counting yields 7 digits in 1 second using period-to-frequency conversion
• Above 10 MHz: conventional counting
**Input Channels A and B**
• Frequency range: DC coupled 0–100 MHz; AC coupled 30 Hz–100 MHz
• Sensitivity: 10 mV rms (to 10 MHz), 25 mV rms (to 100 MHz), 75 mV peak-to-peak pulse (5 ns minimum width)
• Adjustable sensitivity to 500 mV rms nominal
• Dynamic range: 60 mV–5 V peak-to-peak (to 10 MHz); 150 mV–5 V peak-to-peak (10–100 MHz)
• Input impedance: 500 kΩ nominal, <70 pF shunt capacitance
**Signal Conditioning**
• AC/DC coupling selection
• Variable attenuator for sensitivity control
• Switchable 100 kHz low-pass filter on Channel A
• Trigger level: ±2.5 Vdc adjustable, positive/negative slope selectable
**Gate Time**
• Variable 60 ms to 10 seconds (or one period, whichever is longer)
• Short gate range: 500 µs to 30 ms
**Time Base**
• Internal 10 MHz standard
## Key Features
• Multiple Register Counter architecture for extended counting and computing capability
• Reciprocal counting technique for precise low-frequency measurements
• Three distinct time-interval modes accommodating single-shot and averaging applications
• Selectable coupling and trigger configuration for signal conditioning
• Optional 1 GHz capability via Channel C (Option 003)
## Typical Applications
Frequency and period characterization, precision time-interval analysis, signal ratio measurement, event counting, and gated measurement scenarios in laboratory and production environments.
## Compatibility & Integration
Channels A and B support standard 50 kΩ source impedance. Optional Channel C integration extends measurement range for microwave and RF applications.
