EIP Microwave 540 Series
3 models with full specifications from EIP Microwave.
The EIP Microwave 540 Series consists of the 545A, 548A, and 548B high-performance microwave frequency counters. Designed for precise frequency and optional power measurements, these instruments are engineered for microwave laboratories, automated test systems, and production benches. The family features a common measurement architecture, including a standard 12-digit LED display and distinct input bands to cover a broad frequency range. From the 18 GHz ceiling of the 545A to the 26.5 GHz standard limits of the 548A and 548B—the latter of which supports expansion up to 110 GHz—this series provides options for varying frequency coverage, interfaces, and physical configurations. Engineers can choose the optimal model based on specific tracking speeds, acquisition time requirements, and frequency ranges.
- Band 1 Frequency Range
- 10 Hz to 100 MHz
- Display Type
- 12-digit LED
- Operating Temperature Range
- 0 to 50 °C
Models in this series
Common Measurement Architecture
Across the 540 series, the instruments share a three-band input design. Band 1 covers low frequencies from 10 Hz to 100 MHz with a sensitivity of 25 mV rms and an input impedance of 1 MΩ. Band 2 bridges the medium-frequency gap, covering 10 MHz to 1 GHz (or 1.0 GHz on the 548A) with a 50 Ω impedance. All three counters feature a 12-digit LED display, giving engineers high resolution for precise measurements.
The instruments also show high tolerance for modulated signals. For instance, the 545A and 548B have an FM tolerance of 20 MHz p-p up to a 10 MHz modulation rate, allowing them to track complex signals. Automatic amplitude discrimination of 10 dB is also shared between the 545A and 548B, enabling the counter to lock onto the strongest signal in a multi-signal environment.
Model Comparison and Frequency Coverage
The primary differentiator among the models is their frequency range in Band 3:
- EIP Microwave 545A: Covers 1 GHz to 18 GHz. It has an acquisition time of 250 ms and a tracking speed of 800 MHz/s. GPIB connectivity is available via Option 01.
- EIP Microwave 548A: Covers 1.0 GHz to 26.5 GHz. It includes a display hold toggle on the front panel and can be configured with an ovenized oscillator (Option 01) for an aging rate of less than 5 × 10^-10 per day.
- EIP Microwave 548B: Covers 1 GHz to 26.5 GHz, which is further expandable up to 110 GHz. It features a normal acquisition time of 200 ms and a center frequency mode acquisition time of 20 ms. GPIB is standard on this model.
Physical and Interface Variations
The physical footprint and weight vary across the series. The EIP Microwave 545A has dimensions of 425 mm × 88 mm × 356 mm and a weight of 9.1 kg. The EIP Microwave 548B is larger and heavier, measuring 413 mm × 140 mm × 457 mm and weighing 11.4 kg.
For power measurements, both the 545A and the 548A support optional power measurement capabilities via Option 02. On the 545A, Option 02 delivers a power measurement resolution of 0.1 dB with a typical accuracy of 0.5 dB. On the 548A, Option 02 enables power measurements in dBm from 1.0 GHz to 26.5 GHz.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the maximum frequency range of the EIP Microwave 548B?
- The EIP Microwave 548B covers 10 Hz to 26.5 GHz in its standard configuration, and its Band 3 frequency range can be expanded up to 110 GHz.
- Can the EIP Microwave 545A perform power measurements?
- Yes, the 545A can perform power measurements with Option 02, which provides a power measurement resolution of 0.1 dB and a typical accuracy of 0.5 dB.
- What is the difference in tracking speed between the 545A and the 548B?
- Both the 545A and the 548B feature the same tracking speed of 800 MHz/s.