Keysight 53230A 350 MHz Universal Frequency Counter/Timer, 12 digits/s, 20 ps

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.