Tektronix VX4223 Universal Timer / Counter

The Tektronix VX4223 is a microprocessor-controlled universal timer/counter module designed as a single-slot C-size VXI instrument for precision timing and frequency measurements. Operating under VXIbus System Specification Version 1.3, it delivers high-resolution counting and timing functions across multiple input channels with frequency coverage extending to 1.3 GHz.

– Technical Specifications

Module Configuration
• Single-slot C-size VXI module
• Microprocessor-controlled architecture
• VXIbus System Specification Version 1.3 compliant
• Requires VXIbus Slot 0 Resource Manager control

Frequency Measurement
• Input A: Up to 160 MHz
• Input B: Up to 100 MHz
• Input C (Option 01): Up to 1.3 GHz with 40 MHz to 1.3 GHz bandwidth and 50 Ω impedance

Input Configuration
• Inputs A and B: Front panel BNC connectors
• Input A: Accepts signals from VXIbus backplane SUMBUS lines
• Input C: 50 Ω fixed impedance (Option 01 required)
• Input D: External arming capability

– Key Features

Measurement Functions
• Period measurement at Input A
• Frequency ratio measurement (A/B, C/B with Option 01)
• Totalize functions: Total A by B, Total B by A, and manual totalize (up to 10¹² events maximum per function)
• Time interval measurement between trigger events
• Rise and fall time measurement at Input A
• Pulse width measurement with 5 ns minimum range
• Phase difference measurement between inputs (A relative to B and B relative to A) with 20 ms range

Advanced Capabilities
• External arming via Input D or VXI trigger bus
• Selectable arming conditions through alternate command set
• External frequency standard input for reference locking

– Typical Applications

Precision frequency and timing characterization, signal ratio analysis, event counting and gating, phase relationship measurements, and pulse parameter validation in automated test environments.

– Compatibility & Integration

Designed for VXI chassis architectures, the VX4223 integrates with backplane trigger and SUMBUS resources while maintaining independent front-panel connectivity for direct signal measurement applications.