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

[Javier Herrero]

On 18.04.2014 19:17, Andrea Baldoni wrote:
> 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?
Hello,

One alternative could be a HP 5334A/B. They can be found rather 
unexpensive, I think that it has all your required functionalities, and 
a wide input voltage range (+/-50V with x10 att on)

Regards,

Javier