Anritsu MF1603A Frequency Counter, 0.1 MHz – 3 GHz

The Anritsu MF1603A is a precision frequency counter engineered for measurements from 0.1 MHz to 3 GHz across telecommunications, electronics design, and RF testing environments. It delivers fast acquisition and 1 Hz measurement resolution through reciprocal and vernier techniques, enabling 10-digit display in 1 second. The instrument measures frequency, period, pulse width, and totalizing functions with selectable gate times from 0.01 s to 10 s.

Its 10 mVrms sensitivity and 50-ohm input impedance accommodate signals up to 5 Vrms maximum.

Technical Specifications

• Frequency Range: 0.1 MHz to 3 GHz


• Measurement Functions: Frequency, period, pulse width, totalizing (up to 100 MHz)


• Period Measurement Range: 10 ns to 1000 s


• Pulse Width Resolution: 10 ns single-shot; 300 ps average measurement mode


• Sensitivity: 10 mVrms


• Input Impedance: 50 ohms


• Maximum Input Voltage: 5 Vrms


• Measurement Resolution: 1 Hz


• Gate Time: 0.01 s to 10 s (selectable: 0.01 s, 0.1 s, 1 s, 10 s, and additional ranges <0.4 ms to <20 s)


• Display: 11-digit seven-segment green LED


• Power Supply: 100–240 VAC, 50/60 Hz (or AC85–132 V / AC170–250 V)

Key Features

• Signal Masking: SIG MASK enables period measurement through noise (5 μs to 1600 s); GATE MASK delays measurement start by 1 μs to 16 s


• Burst Signal Measurement: Dedicated capability for burst signal characterization


• ppm Display & Arithmetic: Results displayed in ppm, ratios, deviations, or derived units via sum, difference, product, and quotient operations


• Panel Preset Memory: Storage and recall of nine measurement configurations


• High-Resolution Acquisition: Reciprocal and vernier measurement techniques yield 10-digit resolution in 1 second

Typical Applications

• RF system diagnostics and component testing


• Calibration procedures in production environments


• Frequency validation in telecommunications and electronics design


• Pulse characterization and burst signal analysis

Compatibility & Integration

• Optional GP-IB Interface: Configures automated measurement and monitoring systems


• Reference Oscillator Options: Available with selectable aging specifications (e.g., 5 × 10⁻⁹/day)


• Optional Pre-Amp: Available for enhanced signal sensitivity