HP / Agilent 53150A 20 GHz CW Microwave Frequency Counter

The HP/Agilent 53150A is a 20 GHz CW microwave frequency counter that combines high-resolution frequency measurement with simultaneous power acquisition through a single ultra-wideband input. Designed for telecommunications, radar, and satellite communications applications, it delivers 1 Hz resolution and 1 Hz to 1 MHz selectable measurement bandwidth. The instrument measures frequency on Channel 1 from 10 Hz to 125 MHz and on the microwave input from 50 MHz to 20 GHz, while simultaneously capturing power in dBm or Watts across the entire microwave band.

## Technical Specifications

**Frequency Measurement**
• Channel 1: 10 Hz to 125 MHz
• Channel 2 (Microwave): 50 MHz to 20 GHz
• Maximum resolution: 1 Hz
• Selectable resolution: 1 Hz to 1 MHz

**Power Measurement**
• Range: -20 dBm to +10 dBm (trigger level capability)
• Display units: dBm or Watts
• Analog peaking indicator for signal optimization

**Input Specifications**
• Channel 1: 40 mV rms (10-30 Hz); 25 mV rms (30 Hz–125 MHz); maximum 2 Vrms; 1 MΩ / 60 pF; BNC connector
• Channel 2: 50 Ω impedance; SMA/APC-3.5 connector; SWR 1.5:1 (50–250 MHz), 2.0:1 (0.25–10 GHz)

**Performance**
• Acquisition time: 100–140 ms
• Measurement time: 1/Resolution + 20 ms
• Sample rates: Fast (20 ms), Medium (250 ms), Slow (1 s)
• Accuracy: ±1 LSD ± residual stability ±(timebase error × frequency)

**Timebase Options**
• Standard timebase
• Option 001: High Stability Oven Timebase
• External reference: 1, 2, 5, 10 MHz

## Key Features

• Dual-channel architecture: low-frequency and microwave inputs
• Cable loss compensation with 10 independent frequency points
• Measurement averaging: 1–99 running average
• Frequency and power offset for relative measurements
• Trigger modes: Internal, External, Manual, or Bus

## Typical Applications

Telecommunications signal verification, radar frequency validation, satellite uplink/downlink measurements, and microwave component characterization.

## Compatibility & Integration

Fully programmable via GPIB (IEEE 488) and RS-232C interfaces. SCPI-compliant command set enables integration into automated test environments. Backlit LCD display; 4.4″ H × 13.1″ W × 14.6″ D; 17.6 lbs.