Keysight / Agilent / HP 5328A Universal Counter

The Keysight/Agilent/HP 5328A Universal Counter is a modular instrument for precision frequency, period, time interval, ratio, and totalize measurements. The ROM-controlled measurement cycle delivers 8- or 9-digit LED display output with display storage and leading zero blanking. Its modular architecture accommodates optional interfaces and frequency extension modules, making it suitable for electronics testing, calibration, and laboratory research requiring sub-nanosecond time resolution and multi-megahertz frequency capability.

– Technical Specifications

Frequency Measurement
• Standard: DC to 100 MHz
• Option 030: 512 MHz on Channel C
• Option 031: 1300 MHz on Channel C

Time Interval Measurements
• Single shot resolution: 100 ns
• Averaging resolution: Better than 10 ps for repetitive intervals as short as 100 ps
• Standard range: 10 ns to 10⁷ s
• Averaging range: 0.1 ns to 1 s

Period Measurement
• Standard range: 100 ns to 10 s, 10 µs resolution
• Period average range: 100 µs to 10 s, 0.01 ps resolution

Time Base
• Standard: 10 MHz with <3×10⁻⁷ per month stability
• Option 010: High stability time base

DVM Option (020/021)
• Ranges: ±10 V, ±100 V, ±1000 V DC with autorange
• Sensitivity: 10 µV to 100 mV depending on measurement time
• Accuracy: 0.004 % with filter
• Input impedance: 10 MΩ nominal
• Maximum input: ±1100 V Hi to Lo; ±500 V Lo to chassis ground

– Key Features

• Switchable x1 and x10 attenuators on each input
• Trigger lights indicate signal level relative to trigger threshold
• Armed measurement modes via rear panel switch
• Marker outputs to 100 MHz for real-time oscilloscope monitoring
• Ratio measurement (B/A) and totalize function included
• Burst and CW measurement capability to 100 MHz

– Typical Applications

Electronics testing, frequency calibration, timing verification, and precision interval measurement in research environments requiring sub-nanosecond resolution.

– Compatibility & Integration

Option 011 provides HP-IB (Hewlett-Packard Interface Bus) connectivity for remote programming and automated data transfer. The counter functions as both listener and talker on the bus.