SpecAtlasHub

5342A

Keysight Technologies (Agilent HP)Frequency

The HP / Agilent 5342A is a high-performance automatic microwave frequency counter capable of measuring continuous wave signals up to 18 GHz. It features a sensitive -25 dBm input, an 11-digit LED display, and dual inputs for both low-frequency and microwave measurement tasks. The instrument leverages harmonic heterodyne converter technology to provide fast, accurate readings.

Frequency MeasurementMicrowaveRF and Microwave

Specifications

General

ParameterValue
InterfacesHP-IB (Option 011)
Display11-digit LED

Input 1 (Microwave) Characteristics

ParameterValue
Frequency Range500 MHz to 18 GHz
Sensitivity-25 dBm (500 MHz to 12.4 GHz); -20 dBm (> 12.4 GHz)
Maximum Input Level+7 dBm
Impedance50 Ω
CouplingAC to instrument, DC to 50 Ω termination
Connector TypeType-N (female)
Maximum FM Tolerance50 MHz peak-to-peak

Timebase & Reference Oscillator

ParameterValue
Internal Reference Frequency10 MHz

Measurement Characteristics

ParameterValue
Frequency Resolution1 Hz to 1 MHz (selectable)

Available Options & Accessories

ParameterValue
Amplitude Measurement OptionOption 002
Extended Frequency OptionOption 005 (up to 24 GHz)
High Stability Timebase OptionOption 001 (Oven Controlled Crystal Oscillator)
Digital-to-Analog Output OptionOption 004

Performance

ParameterValue
Acquisition Time (Automatic Mode)< 530 ms
Acquisition Time (Manual Mode)< 80 ms

Inputs & Outputs

ParameterValue
External Timebase Input Frequency10 MHz
Timebase Output Frequency10 MHz
Low Frequency Input Range (Input 2)10 Hz to 520 MHz
Low Frequency Input Sensitivity (Input 2)50 mV rms
Low Frequency Input Impedance (Input 2)50 Ω or 1 MΩ (selectable)
Microwave Input Damage Level (Input 1)+25 dBm (peak), 5 Vdc

Internal Timebase

ParameterValue
High Stability Timebase Aging Rate (Option 001)< 5 × 10⁻¹⁰ / day (after 24-hour warm-up)

Technology

Harmonic Heterodyne Converter

Applications

Microwave Frequency Measurement