Pendulum Instruments · Frequency Counters & Analyzers
CNT-102B
Blind-panel 2-channel frequency analyzer with rear inputs, built for test systems at a lower unit cost.
CNT-102B is the 2-channel blind-panel model of the CNT-100 series, made for test systems rather than the bench. Both channels measure in parallel on one timebase, so one unit replaces two conventional counters at a lower price and with a longer MTBF. There is no display: control is by SCPI or web interface, inputs sit on the rear panel, and a 19 inch rack kit is available for ATE integration.
Overview
CNT-102B is the screenless 2-channel version of the Pendulum CNT-100 series for customers who build the counter into a test system. The two parallel channels measure both signals at the same time, and the built-in modulation domain analyzer (MDA) captures fast frequency or phase changes in real time. The base channels cover up to 400 MHz; an optional third RF channel C reaches 3, 10, 15, 20 or 24 GHz. Time resolution is 14 ps as delivered and 7 ps by software license, and measurement speed can be raised from 1 million to 20 million results per second. Without the display and front inputs, CNT-102B costs less per unit and is more reliable, while keeping the same measurement core as the bench-top models. With the 19 inch 2U rack adapter you fit two units, four counters, in one rack slot, which suits automated test systems and production lines. Check the channel count before ordering: moving from two to four channels later means a different instrument, not an upgrade.
Key specifications
| Input channels | 2 parallel input channels (optional 3rd RF channel C) |
|---|---|
| Base frequency range | Up to 400 MHz (optional RF channel up to 24 GHz) |
| Time resolution | 14 ps standard (7 ps with software license) |
| Measurement speed | 1M samples/s (20M samples/s with software license) |
| Measurement functions | Frequency analysis, modulation domain analysis (MDA), phase comparison, TIE time interval error |
| Control | SCPI commands / web interface (blind panel, no display) |
| Input location | Rear inputs, for rack integration and cabling |
| Interfaces | Ethernet; GPIB (optional); WLAN (external Wi-Fi dongle required); USB (RNDIS) |
| Timebase options | TCXO standard; optional OCXO (Option 30 at 50 ppb/year, Option 40 at 15 ppb/year) |
| Rack option | Option 22/90 (one unit), 22/04 (one unit beside a half-19 inch 2U unit) and 22/05 (two units side by side) 19 inch rack kits |
Features
Built for the test rack
No display, rear inputs, control by SCPI or web interface. It drops straight into an ATE system and replaces conventional counters at a lower cost and higher reliability.
Two channels in parallel
Frequency, time, phase and TIE are measured on both inputs at once, so one unit stands in for two counters, with a longer MTBF than screened models.
Modulation domain analyzer (MDA)
The built-in MDA captures very fast frequency or phase/time changes in real time, covering FM, FSK, BPSK, PWM and PPM style modulation.
RF input up to 24 GHz
Beyond the 400 MHz base channels, an optional 3rd RF input channel takes measurements up to 24 GHz.
Resolution and speed grow with you
Time resolution goes from 14 ps to 7 ps by license, and measurement speed from 1M to 20M samples/s.
Lower cost, rack ready
No screen means a lower unit price and better reliability, and the 19 inch 2U rack adapter makes it easy to integrate into test systems and production lines.
Typical applications
System integration
Automated test system (ATE) integration
Blind panel, rear inputs and the 19 inch rack option let CNT-102B mount directly in a test cabinet under SCPI control from a host. Two parallel channels mean one unit replaces two counters, saving rack space and cabling on production test lines.
Production test
Oscillator and frequency component acceptance
CNT-102B measures two DUTs at the same time. With the speed upgrade to 20M samples/s and a longer MTBF, it completes final production test at a lower unit cost and lower cost per part.
R&D analysis
Frequency dynamics and modulation verification
The built-in modulation domain analysis (MDA) records frequency transients and synthesizer switching continuously, and handles FM, FSK, BPSK, PWM and PPM time-frequency analysis, so engineers can pin down design problems during RF and PLL development.
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 license options
Downloads
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