The Keysight 53230A is a 350 MHz universal frequency counter/timer engineered for precision measurement of frequency, time interval, and modulation characteristics. It delivers 12 digits/second frequency resolution and 20 ps single-shot time interval resolution, supporting measurement rates up to 75,000 readings/sec for frequency and 90,000 readings/sec for time interval. The instrument combines baseband capability (1 mHz to 350 MHz) with optional microwave channels extending to 6 GHz or 15 GHz, enabling analysis across RF and pulse domains.
Technical Specifications
Measurement Range & Resolution
• Frequency: 1 mHz to 350 MHz baseband; optional 6 GHz or 15 GHz channels
• Frequency resolution: 12 digits/second
• Time interval resolution: 20 ps (single-shot)
• Input impedance: 1 MΩ || <25 pF or 50 Ω (switchable)
• Sensitivity: 20 mVrms DC to 100 MHz; 40 mVrms above 100 MHz
Measurement Functions
• Frequency, period, frequency ratio, time interval, single period
• Pulse width, rise/fall time, duty cycle, phase
• Max/min/peak-to-peak voltage, totalize
• Jitter measurement, stability analysis (Allan Variance)
• Pulse/burst characterization: carrier frequency, PRI, PRF, pulse width
• Timestamp and modulation domain analysis
Data Acquisition
• 1M reading memory standard; up to 5M readings with data logging to non-volatile storage
• Event timestamping to 1 MSPS
• Continuous measurement capability up to 1 million samples
Display & Interface
• 4.3-inch color TFT WQVGA (480 × 272) with LED backlight
• Graphical outputs: trend plot, cumulative histogram
• Connectivity: LXI-C/LAN, USB; optional GPIB
• Rear panel parallel inputs available (Option 201)
Physical & Environmental
• Dimensions: 103.8 mm H × 261.1 mm W × 303.2 mm D
• Weight: 3.9 kg
• Operating temperature: 0 to 55 °C
• Power consumption: 90 VA operating, 6 VA standby
– Key Features
• High-speed simultaneous measurement on multiple channels
• Configurable front/rear panel inputs with SMA or Type N connectors
• Ultra high-stability OCXO timebase option (Option 010)
• Portable operation with internal lithium-ion battery/charger (Option 300)
• USB Flash storage for data export
– Typical Applications
• RF device characterization and jitter analysis
• Telecommunications signal validation
• Pulse timing and modulation measurements
• Phase coherence and stability assessment
• Research metrology and calibration
– Compatibility & Integration
LXI-compliant architecture enables seamless integration into automated test systems via Ethernet or USB. GPIB control available as option. Supports concurrent multi-channel measurements with synchronized timestamping across all active inputs.
