[time-nuts] Vintage Frequency Measurement

[Dr. David Kirkby (Kirkby Microwave Ltd)]

On 12 February 2017 at 06:08, Scott Stobbe <scott.j.stobbe at gmail.com> wrote:

> I was inspired recently coming across a Lampkin 105 frequency meter, as to
> how  frequency measurement was done before counters.
>
> Certainly zero-beating a dial calibrated oscillator, would be one approach.
>
> Is there a standout methodology or instrument predating counters?
>

How about the diffraction grating? Natural ones have probably existed
billions of years, but they were made by man in the 18th century. These are
still in use today in instruments like optical spectrum analyzers.

The wavemeter must have been around a long time too. These are still used
at THz wavelengths.


Dave.