WATSON FC-130 User Manual

FC - 130
Frequency CCounter
INTRODUCTION
The Watson FC-130 hand-held frequency counter is our most popular counter. Even advanced features such as
field strength measurement are incorporated. It is a compact, true pocket size, test instrument designed for
ease of use and dependable performance. Supplied as a complete package with internal NiCad pack, AC wall
charger and 7 section telescopic antenna.
Frequency range:
Weight:
Size:
Impedance:
Case:
Battery:
Power:
Timebase:
CONTROLS
1) POWER SWITCH - This slide switch turns the counter on and initiates a 2 second test of all LCD segments.
2) RANGE SWITCH - This should be switched to the 300MHz position for frequencies between 1MHz and
300MHz and switched to the 3GHz position for frequencies between 10MHz and 3GHz.
3) HOLD BUTTON - This will stop the counter from counting and hold the current display.
4) GATE BUTTON - This has four positions and selects the gate or measurement time. A longer gate time means counting for a longer
period and results in higher accuracy.
5) CALIBRATION - A calibration adjustment opening, marked “CAL” is located on the front panel of the counter. This opening permits
access to the trimmer capacitor that provides about a 10 PPM adjustment range of the time base oscillator. When calibrating, use the
slow gate time for maximum resolution and read a stable signal of known frequency before adjusting the trimmer for correct frequen-
cy display. Calibrate at 4.1943MHz or higher as the higher the calibration frequency the more accurate the counter will be.
WARRANTY
Watson guarantees the counter and accessories for one year against defects in manufacture. This warranty does not cover items that
have been modified, subject to unauthorized repairs, misuse or abuse. This warranty does not cover damage caused by excessive
power levels applied to signal input. Never make a direct connection between the counter and a transmitter.
1MHz-3GHz
210g
80(H) (excluding antenna) x 68(W) x
31(D) mm
50 Ohms (BNC socket)
Stamped aluminium with black
anodized finish
Internal 4 x AA 600mAh NiCad pack
9 VDC 300mA
<1 PPM typical at room temperature
FEATURES
* 10 digit Liquid Crystal Display
* Low power consumption
(Average 6 hour battery life)
* Supplied with NiCad pack, AC wall charger
and telescopic whip antenna.
* Hold button to lock display
* Low battery indicator
* Ultra sensitive synchronous detector
16 section bargraph to show RF signal strength
* High speed 300MHz direct counter with 0.1Hz resolution
* 4 selectable gate speeds
1MHz - 3GHz
WATERS & STANTON PLC - 22 MAIN RD, HOCKLEY, ESSEX SS5 4QS
ENQUIRIES: 01702 206835 ORDERS: 08000 73 73 88 E-MAIL: sales@wsplc.com WEB: www.wsplc.com
SPECIFICATIONS

WATSON FC-130 Specifications

General

Brand	WATSON
Model	FC-130
Category	Cash Counter
Language	English

Summary

Introduction to Watson FC-130

Specifications of the Frequency Counter

Key Features of the Frequency Counter

10-Digit LCD Display

Features a 10-digit liquid crystal display for clear readings.

Low Power Consumption

Offers low power consumption with an average battery life of 6 hours.

Hold Function

Includes a hold button to lock the current display reading.

Low Battery Indicator

Provides a low battery indicator to alert users.

Ultra-Sensitive Detector

Features an ultra-sensitive synchronous detector for enhanced signal reception.

RF Signal Strength Bargraph

A 16-section bargraph visually indicates RF signal strength.

High-Speed 300MHz Counter

Offers a high-speed 300MHz direct counter with 0.1Hz resolution.

Selectable Gate Speeds

Includes 4 selectable gate speeds for measurement time control.

Operating Controls

Power Switch Operation

Slide switch to turn the counter on, initiating a 2-second LCD test.

Range Switch Settings

Selects frequency range: 300MHz for 1MHz-300MHz, 3GHz for 10MHz-3GHz.

Hold Button Function

Stops the counter and holds the current display reading.

Gate Button Usage

Selects gate/measurement time for longer periods and higher accuracy.

Calibration Procedure

Adjusts time base oscillator using trimmer for accurate frequency display.

Warranty Information

Hints and Tips for Operation

NiCad Battery Operation

Details on charging, deep cycling, and maintenance of NiCad batteries.

Signal Input Considerations

Guidance on signal input, random counts, and maximum input levels.

Antenna Selection Advice

Recommendations for using the supplied telescopic antenna and alternatives.

Reception Distance Factors

Explains factors affecting reception distance from transmitters.

RF Signal Strength Bargraph Levels

Typical signal levels corresponding to bargraph segments.

Input Sensitivity Specifications

Provides typical input sensitivity values for different frequencies.

Frequency Display Resolution

Shows resolution based on range and gate time settings.