The Keysight (formerly Agilent) 53151A is a CW microwave frequency counter and power meter capable of measuring frequencies from 50 MHz up to 26.5 GHz. Built with an ultra-wideband single input, it offers simultaneous frequency and power measurement alongside an analog peaking indicator. Its rugged, lightweight design makes it highly suitable for both benchtop testing and field use, and it can be equipped with an optional internal battery and high-stability oven timebase.
Specifications
General
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Interfaces | GPIB (IEEE-488) and RS-232 |
| Display | Backlit LCD with analog peaking indicator |
Physical
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Power Supply | 90 to 264 VAC, 47 to 63 Hz, 50 VA max |
| Operating Temperature | 0 to +55 °C |
| Dimensions (W×H×D) | 213 x 88.5 x 300 mm |
| Weight | 4.0 kg (without battery) |
Microwave Input
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Frequency Range | 50 MHz to 26.5 GHz |
| Input Architecture | Ultra-wideband single input |
| Connector Type | 3.5 mm (m) |
Power Measurement
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Measurement Capability | Simultaneous frequency and power measurement |
Timebase / Reference Oscillator
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| External Reference Input Frequency | 1 MHz, 5 MHz, 10 MHz |
| Internal Reference Output Frequency | 10 MHz |
| Standard Timebase | TCXO |
| High-Stability Timebase Option | Oven timebase (Option 001) |
Interfaces & Data Handling
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Remote Interfaces | GPIB and RS-232 (Standard) |
Power Requirements
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| DC Input / Battery Option | Optional internal battery operation (Option 002) |
| Power Consumption | 50 VA max |
| AC Line Input | 90 to 264 VAC, 47 to 63 Hz |
Physical Characteristics
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Form Factor | Rugged, lightweight design for field use |
| Accessories | Optional soft carrying case |
Input 1 (Microwave)
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| FM Tolerance | 20 MHz p-p (up to 10 MHz rate) |
| Input 1 Damage Level | +27 dBm peak, 5 Vdc |
| Input 1 Maximum Operating Level | +5 dBm |
Input 2 (Low Frequency)
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Input 2 Frequency Range | 10 Hz to 125 MHz |
Measurement Performance
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Frequency Resolution | 1 Hz to 1 MHz (selectable) |
| Amplitude Measurement Resolution | 0.01 dB |
Timebase
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Standard Timebase Aging | < 1 x 10^-7 / month |
| Option 001 Timebase Aging | < 5 x 10^-10 / day |
Environmental
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Storage Temperature | -40 °C to +71 °C |
| Operating Altitude | Up to 4,600 m (15,000 ft) |
Measurement Characteristics
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Measurement Speed | Up to 50 readings/s via GPIB |
Compliance & Environmental
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Environmental Profile | MIL-PRF-28800F Class 3 |
Technology
CW Microwave Frequency Counter
Applications
Microwave frequency counting, power measurement, field and benchtop test