How To Use A Frequency Counter

Of the things you'll find on a technician's workbench, a frequency counter is one of the easiest to use. Their main purpose, measuring frequency, is done by setting a few front panel switches. Spending a few minutes with a frequency counter and a test oscillator will show you what you need to know.

Step 1

Connect oscillator to frequency counter using the BNC cable.

Step 2

Turn oscillator and frequency counter power on.

Step 3

Select a pure, unmodulated waveform from the oscillator: sine, triangle, or pulse.

Step 4

Set the oscillator's amplitude (output level) about halfway. Set its frequency to about 1000 Hz.

Step 5

Set the frequency counter to the lowest frequency range. Set its gate to one per second. If it has a frequency/period mode, set it to frequency.

Step 6

If the frequency counter has a "Hold" button, press it. The display should hold the same count. Press "Hold" again to resume normal operation.

Step 7

Change the counter's mode to "Period," if it has that mode. It should now display a time interval of about .001 seconds.

Step 8

Change the oscillator frequency. The counter should show the new frequency momentarily.

Step 9

Change the "Gate" setting. The display should update less often but with higher resolution.