HP / Agilent 5316B Universal Counter

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.