[time-nuts] Very slow freq. counter / event counter

[Tom Van Baak]

Andrea,

This chip does what you want: http://leapsecond.com/pic/picpet.htm
Input frequency is 0.01 Hz to 100 Hz. Output is microsecond time-stamp and event-count over RS232.
You use a PC to log and process the data (into frequency, period, counts, etc.).
I use it for all sorts of low frequency work.

But you'd have to add the 5V power supply and binding post to meet your "laboratory instrument" requirement.

/tvb

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Andrea Baldoni" <erm1eaae7 at ermione.com>
To: <time-nuts at febo.com>
Sent: Friday, April 18, 2014 10:17 AM
Subject: [time-nuts] Very slow freq. counter / event counter


> Hello.
> 
> In the lab, I would like to have an event counter that can double as
> frequency/period counter, with maximum clock rate in the order of the tens
> of Hz or so, better with TIC function (aka "chronometer"). Resolution need
> not be better than 1/100s, counts to 9999, but the input should be simple and
> permissive, something like 0-5V or 0-12V, or short-to-activate.
> 
> I own a Racal-Dana 1995 than can count periods to 1700s, but can't be used
> as event counter and the inputs are delicate, needing care and attenuators.
> 
> I also have an Agilent 34401 that can count frequency; the input is very
> versatile but, for whatever reason they limited the lower frequency to 3Hz
> so it can't measure slow signals. It also can't be used as event counter
> or as TIC.
> 
> I know there are some industrial timer/counters (for example the chinese Sommy
> /Autonics CT series) but I would like more to have a laboratory instrument,
> with binding post in the front, mains power, etc...
> A vintage would be good also, just maybe not so vintage to use dekatron tubes :)
> (nixie are ok, but it should not weight a ton or shipping to Italy would be
> prohibitive)
> 
> Someone has a suggestion?
> 
> Best regards,
> Andrea Baldoni