TinyGTC ZC407 frequency counter
Details
The TinyGTC ZC407 is a handheld, high-accuracy and affordable frequency counter. Since this counter is portable, it is versatile and the high time resolution of 40ps ensures highly accurate measurement results. The counter has a wide range of functions and can measure frequency, time, phase, and count without gaps. Due to the continuous measurements, the TinyGTC delivers reliable results for ADEV measurements, which is a unique feature. Moreover, the frequency counter can be locked to a GPS location to sync the internal clock to a GPS time signal (UTC). This ensures a high long-term accuracy of the measurements.
The TinyGTC has a clear 4" touchscreen which shows all relevant information for operation. Furthermore, there is a USB interface with which the counter can be operated remotely, or to read out measurements with a connected device. The frequency counter has a micro SD card slot, which can use cards up to 32GB to store measurement data. The developer has set up an extensive wiki page with all the necessary information and specifications. This wiki can be found here.
Due to its small size and low cost, the TinyGTC is not as well protected against overloading as larger, more expensive counters. Please read the How not to damage your TinyGTC guide for tips on how to prevent damage to your device.
Why choose the TinyGTC ZC407?
Eleshop has full confidence in the ZC407, an instrument that provides laboratory-grade precision through its 40ps FPGA architecture, gapless measurement capabilities, and GPS-disciplined stability.
Model overview
| Model | ZC407 | ZC412 |
|---|---|---|
| Max. frequency | 7 GHz | 12 GHz |
| Price |
Specifications
| Input coupling | Input A and B: DC REF input: AC |
| SMA connections | |
| SMA A | 0 – 7 GHz (DC, 1 MΩ // 25 pF or 50 Ω) |
| SMA B | 0 – 350 MHz (DC, 1 MΩ // 2 pF or 50 Ω) |
| SMA OUT | 0.1 Hz – 100 MHz, 3 Vpp AC coupled square wave or pulse, 50 Ω |
| SMA REF | Optional external reference input AC, 10 MHz +5 dBm to +15 dBm or output 8 kHz – 250 MHz, 3 Vpp AC coupled square wave, 50 Ω |
| SMA GPS | Active GNSS antenna input, permanent +3 V bias |
| Input impedance | 1 MΩ / 2 pF 50 Ω optional |
| Time resolution | 40 ps |
| Trigger level | 0 – 3.5 V |
| Display | 4" touchscreen |
| Functions | Frequency, time, phase, count |
| Power supply | Built-in rechargeable battery |
| Max. input voltage | ± 3.5 Vdc; 3.5 Vpp or 16 dBm in 50 Ω |
| Interfaces | USB, OUT pulse or square wave, EXT Ref in/output, active GPS antenna, A and B measurement inputs |
Accessories
The TinyGTC ZC407 comes by default with:
- 32 GB micro SD card
- USB cable
- SMA Tee
- 2 short SMA cables
- Active GPS antenna
Pros and cons
- Gapless measurement
- 40 ps resolution
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