HP / Agilent 70310A Precision Frequency Reference

The HP/Agilent 70310A Precision Frequency Reference is a plug-in module for HP 70000 Modular Measurement System mainframes that delivers highly stable 10 MHz and 100 MHz reference signals for calibration, telecommunications, and precision measurement applications. Built around a vibration-isolated, ovenized quartz oscillator, the module provides excellent long-term stability and tight frequency accuracy essential for narrow-span tuning and rapid signal identification. The 70310A operates as either a standalone frequency standard or as a slave reference locked to a master element within the HP 70000 MMS architecture, such as the HP 70900A Local Oscillator.

– Technical Specifications

• Reference outputs: 10 MHz, 100 MHz
• Internal oscillator: Vibration-isolated, ovenized quartz
• Output phase-locking: Phase-locked to internal ovenized oscillator
• Stability: Excellent over time and temperature
• External reference input: 10 MHz rear-panel connector
• External power option: 40-volt DC input for continuous oscillator temperature stabilization during system shutdown

– Key Features

The rear-panel 10 MHz input accepts external house standards—such as Rubidium oscillators or GPS-synchronized time standards—for enhanced frequency precision when standalone oscillation is insufficient. The 40-volt DC provision maintains thermal stability of the internal oscillator independent of main system power, critical for applications demanding uninterrupted frequency accuracy.

Option 001 provides one or two independent four-output distribution amplifiers supporting 5 MHz to 300 MHz signal distribution. Option 002 eliminates the internal oscillator and external power pack, converting the module to a phase-locking interface requiring permanent connection to an external 1 MHz, 2 MHz, 5 MHz, or 10 MHz reference signal.

– Typical Applications

• Calibration and standards laboratories
• Telecommunications test environments
• Systems requiring stable, traceable frequency references
• Multi-channel measurement setups benefiting from distributed reference signals

– Compatibility & Integration

The 70310A integrates into HP 70000 MMS mainframe architectures. Front-panel HP-HIL connectors support the Agilent 46021A or 98203C HP-HIL keyboard for system command entry and program control. Extended service options include 2-year warranty extension (Option W30), additional documentation sets (Option 910), and service verification software packages (Option 915).