The HP/Agilent 5382A is a direct-counting frequency counter delivering precise measurement across 10 Hz to 225 MHz with an 8-digit LED display. This portable instrument integrates selectable gate times (0.1 s, 1 s, 10 s) to optimize measurement resolution, coupled with a three-position input attenuator (×1, ×10, ×100) for signal conditioning across dynamic ranges. The front-panel interface provides intuitive control of measurement parameters, while rear-panel connectors enable external time base synchronization and ratio measurements. An optional temperature-compensated crystal oscillator (Option 001) elevates frequency stability when required.
## Technical Specifications
• **Frequency Range:** 10 Hz to 225 MHz
• **Display:** 8-digit LED
• **Sensitivity:** 25 mV rms (30 Hz to 10 MHz); 50 mV rms (10 Hz to 225 MHz), sinewave
• **Input Impedance:** 1 MΩ with < 40 pF capacitance
• **Accuracy:** ±1 Count ± Time Base Accuracy
• **Gate Times:** 0.1 s (10 Hz resolution), 1 s (1 Hz resolution), 10 s (0.1 Hz resolution)
• **Input Attenuator:** ×1, ×10, ×100 positions
• **Maximum Input Levels:** 200 V DC + Peak AC (×1); 250 V rms 40 Hz–1 MHz (×10); 5 V rms 50–225 MHz (×100)
• **Internal Time Base:** 10 MHz standard; Option 001 upgrades to temperature-compensated oscillator
• **Power Supply:** 100–240 V AC, 48–440 Hz selectable; ~30 VA maximum consumption
• **Operating Temperature:** 0 °C to 40 °C
• **Dimensions:** 89 mm H × 160 mm W × 248 mm D; 2.2 kg net
## Key Features
• BNC input connector with high input impedance minimizes loading effects
• Rear-panel external time base input supports precision synchronization and ratio mode operation
• Three attenuator settings accommodate signal levels from millivolts to hundreds of volts
• Selectable gate times enable trade-offs between measurement speed and frequency resolution
• Dual-voltage power input rated for worldwide deployment
## Typical Applications
• RF and microwave oscillator frequency verification
• Signal generator output validation and calibration
• Precision frequency stability assessment across extended gate windows
• Ratio and time base comparison measurements
## Compatibility & Integration
The 5382A interfaces with external frequency references and signal generators (PTS synthesizers, Farnell generators) via standard BNC and rear-panel connectors, enabling integration into automated test systems and precision measurement setups.
