Tektronix FCA3103 Standard Timebase Frequency Counter/Analyzer, 3 GHz, 3-Channel

The Tektronix FCA3103 is a 3-channel frequency counter and analyzer that delivers precision timing and frequency measurements from DC to 3 GHz. Built around a standard timebase, this instrument performs 12-digit frequency resolution with single-shot time resolution of 50 ps, enabling detailed characterization of signal behavior across channels A, B (DC to 300 MHz), and Channel C (DC to 3 GHz). The FCA3103 executes 12 automated measurement functions—frequency, period, ratio, time interval, pulse width, phase angle, duty cycle, and voltage metrics—while supporting advanced analysis modes including measurement statistics, histograms, trend plots, Allan deviation, and zero dead-time measurements. Data throughput reaches 250k samples/s to internal memory (up to 3.75M samples) or 15k samples/s over USB/GPIB in block mode, with up to 650 individually triggered measurements per second. The instrument offers external arming with selectable start delay for burst signal analysis, plus limit-qualifying and hysteresis compensation for time interval work. Compact at 90 mm (H) × 210 mm (W) × 395 mm (D) and weighing 2.7 kg, it connects via USB and GPIB (IEEE-488.2) with full SCPI-compatible programmability. Phase resolution reaches 0.001° and voltage resolution is 3 mV or better. An optional 5×10⁻⁸ high-stability oven timebase is available for enhanced accuracy. The rear panel includes external reference input, 10 MHz reference output, and external arm input connectors. Included software comprises LabVIEW SignalExpress TE Limited Edition and TimeView trial; optional TimeView software (TVA3000) enables modulation domain analysis.

– Technical Specifications

• Frequency Range: Channels A & B: DC to 300 MHz | Channel C: DC to 3 GHz | Manual Trigger Mode: 300 MHz to 400 MHz
• Time Resolution: 50 ps (single-shot)
• Frequency Resolution: 12 digits/second (displayed to 14 digits)
• Phase Resolution: 0.001°
• Voltage Resolution: 3 mV or better
• Data Transfer Rate (Internal Memory): 250k samples/s (up to 3.75M samples)
• Data Transfer Rate (USB/GPIB Block Mode): Up to 15k samples/s
• Measurement Throughput: Up to 650 individually triggered measurements/s
• Timebase Options: Standard; optional 5×10⁻⁸ high-stability oven timebase
• Power Requirements: 90–265 Vrms, 45–440 Hz (automatic adjustment)
• Dimensions: 90 mm (H) × 210 mm (W) × 395 mm (D)
• Weight: 2.7 kg

– Key Features

• Automated measurements: frequency, period, ratio, time interval, time interval error, pulse width, rise/fall time, phase angle, duty cycle, max/min/peak-to-peak voltage, totalize
• Advanced analysis: measurement statistics, histogram, trend plot, Allan deviation, zero dead-time frequency/period, limit-qualifying, hysteresis compensation
• External arming with selectable start delay for repetitive burst signals
• Rear-panel connectors for external reference input, 10 MHz reference output, external arm input
• GPIB (IEEE-488.2) and USB connectivity with SCPI-compatible programmability

– Typical Applications

• Electronics testing and characterization
• Telecommunications signal analysis
• Research and development measurements
• Automated test systems (plug-and-play GPIB replacement)

– Compatibility & Integration

USB and GPIB interfaces enable integration into ATE systems. Included software: LabVIEW SignalExpress TE Limited Edition and TimeView trial. Optional TimeView software (TVA3000) supports modulation domain analysis.