EIP 575 Source-Locking Microwave Counter

The EIP 57x Series Source-Locking Microwave Counters provide fully automatic control in phase locking virtually any swept signal source to the same accuracy and long-term stability as the time-base oscillator in the counter. This ability to stabilize the frequency of nearly any sweep generator often eliminates the need for an expensive, synthesized signal generator of a single-function, stand-alone "lockbox." Source locking operates in 10-kHz increments, from 10 MHz to the maximum operating range of the counter (18 GHz for the 575, 26.5 GHz for the 578, and 110 GHz for the 578 equipped with the optional frequency-extension package). Over this range, the counter acts as a system controller, exercising broadband control in phase locking the signal source to the desired frequency.

In a GPIB-based system, the 57x series offers new efficiency in controller programing. First, the signal source need not be equipped for GPIB control; even if the source has GPIB capability, programming steps can be eliminated by letting the counter control the frequency directly over the entire microwave range. Second, a single command to the counter locks the source; since the counter does its own monitoring and correction, the controller need not check the frequency or issue correction commands. The ability to rapidly step and lock the signal source also saves time.