Tektronix MCA3040^

The Tektronix MCA3040 is a high-performance microwave counter and analyzer that combines frequency measurement, time interval analysis, and power metering in a single instrument. Operating to 40 GHz with 12-digit frequency resolution and 100 ps single-shot time resolution, it delivers precise signal characterization across CW and burst modes. The dual-channel 300 MHz general-purpose input, 50 Ω and 1 MΩ measurement inputs, and comprehensive analysis capabilities make it suitable for radar, satellite communication, wireless systems, and microwave circuit design.

– Technical Specifications

• Maximum Frequency: 40 GHz
• Frequency Resolution: 12 digits/s (14-digit display)
• Time Resolution: 100 ps single-shot
• Measurement Channels: 1 microwave analysis channel (CW or burst modes) plus 2 × 300 MHz general-purpose channels
• Voltage Resolution: 3 mV
• Power Measurement Range: −35 dBm to +10 dBm
• Power Measurement Time Resolution: 0.01 dBm at 100 ms
• Input Impedance: 1 MΩ / 20 pF or 50 Ω (VSWR ≤ 2:1)
• Sensitivity: 15 mVrms at 200 MHz; 25 mVrms at 200 MHz–300 MHz
• Acquisition Time: 25 ms (automatic) or zero (manual)
• Event Count Totalize: 250,000
• Trigger Sources: Internal, External, Automatic (×10/×1 range)
• AC Input: 90–265 VRMS, 45–440 Hz, <40 W
• Dimensions: 395 × 210 × 90 mm
• Weight: 3.63 kg

– Key Features

• Dead time-free frequency and period measurements
• Automated measurement functions: frequency, period, ratio, time interval, time interval error, pulse width, rise/fall time, phase angle, duty cycle, voltage extrema, peak-to-peak voltage
• Measurement statistics, histograms, and trend plots
• Multi-measurement display with auxiliary measurements
• External arming input for synchronization
• 10 MHz reference oscillator output

– Typical Applications

Radar signal analysis, satellite communication testing, wireless communication characterization, microwave circuit design and verification.

– Connectivity & Integration

USB device and GPIB interfaces with full SCPI compatibility. GPIB emulation mode enables Plug-and-Play replacement in existing ATE systems. Includes limited-edition SignalExpress software; professional edition and TimeView™ modulation domain analysis software available as options. Optional ultra-high stability oven time base provides 1.5×10⁻⁸ frequency stability.