Pendulum Instruments · Multi-Channel Frequency Analyzers
CNT-102
Two channels in parallel, gap-free, with flagship-grade frequency analysis at an entry-level budget
CNT-102 gives you the measurement architecture of the CNT-104S generation with two channels instead of four. If your measurements never need four signals at once, this is the version that does not charge you for channels you will not use. Both channels run independently and in parallel with no dead time, at 14 ps time resolution and up to 13 digits per second of frequency resolution. We see it in everyday R&D frequency measurement, phase or delay comparison between two signals, and projects with a firm budget cap that still will not compromise on resolution. Before ordering, make sure two channels really are enough: moving from two to four later means a different instrument, not an upgrade.
Overview
In practice the difference between two and four channels is not the count but whether they can measure at the same time. A single-channel instrument compares two signals by measuring twice and subtracting, and any drift in between ends up in the result. The two channels of CNT-102 run in parallel on one shared timebase, so between-signal quantities such as phase difference, delay and jitter are valid by construction. Measurement is gap-free as well, so a brief anomaly cannot fall into a sampling gap. The standard channels cover DC to 400 MHz; a third RF channel is optional and can be configured for 3, 10, 15, 20 or 24 GHz, letting one instrument handle baseband and microwave signals together. In short, it is the flagship measurement core in a smaller configuration: resolution is not reduced, only channel count and price. It suits users whose needs are clear and who do not need headroom for future possibilities.
Key specifications
| Standard input channels | 2 channels (independent, parallel) |
|---|---|
| Standard frequency range | DC to 400 MHz |
| Optional RF input (3rd channel) | Up to 24 GHz (3 / 10 / 15 / 20 / 24 GHz selectable) |
| Time resolution | 14 ps |
| Frequency resolution | Up to 13 digits/s |
| Measurement rate | 1,000,000 results/s (to internal memory); 170,000 measurements/s (block mode) |
| Input impedance | 1 MΩ / 40 pF or 50 Ω (switchable) |
| Sensitivity | 15 mVrms (up to 100 MHz) / 25 mVrms (100 to 200 MHz) / 35 mVrms (200 to 350 MHz) / 50 mVrms (350 to 400 MHz), preamp on |
| Timebase options | TCXO (standard, 1 ppm/year); optional OCXO (Option 30 at 50 ppb/year, Option 40 at 15 ppb/year) |
| Interfaces | Gigabit Ethernet (standard); USB 2.0 (hardware ready); WiFi (external USB dongle) |
| Display | 5 inch color touch screen |
| Dimensions / weight | 210 × 90 × 395 mm (W × H × D) / net 3 kg |
Features
Two channels in parallel
Both signals are sampled at the same time, so phase difference and delay are measured directly, not derived by subtracting two separate readings.
No discount on resolution
14 ps time resolution and up to 13 digits per second of frequency resolution, the same class as the higher models.
Gap-free measurement
Continuous sampling leaves no gaps, so a short frequency jump or anomaly cannot slip between samples unnoticed.
Microwave as an option
The third channel covers 3 to 24 GHz, so baseband and microwave signals are handled on one instrument.
A clear budget trade-off
What you give up is channel count, not measurement quality. When two signals are all you need, you do not pay for four.
Remote and automated
Gigabit Ethernet and a built-in web server come standard, with SCPI support, so integrating into an automated test system needs no extra interface card.
Typical applications
Metrology and calibration
Two-channel synchronized phase comparison of atomic clocks
When a calibration lab compares two atomic clocks or frequency standards, CNT-102 takes both signals in parallel with no switch or re-cabling, and delivers both time interval data sets on one time reference, which largely removes switching error from the comparison.
Production test
One instrument in place of two counters on the line
In electronics manufacturing and QA test, the two independent channels of CNT-102 measure frequency or time interval at two test points at once. One unit replaces two conventional counters and lowers the hardware cost of an automated test system without giving up throughput.
R&D verification
Oscillator and PLL modulation domain analysis and stability verification
RF engineers designing VCOs, PLLs or synthesizers use the modulation domain analysis of CNT-102 to capture frequency jumps, phase drift and lock settling time in real time, with FM, FSK and BPSK dynamic verification, to find oscillator design faults quickly.
Options and configuration
Tick the options you need. We compile the configuration into a list and carry it into the quote request form.
Standard equipment (included)
Hardware options
Software options
Downloads
Need pricing, specifications or lead time for CNT-102?
Also available for rent: CNT-102 is part of the Pendulum rental program, for project peaks, calibration backup and pre-purchase trials. Rental inquiry →