Frequency Counter Recommendation
 

Can you guys recommend a a couple of decent FC's for AM-FM work. I don't need anything fancy, 250HZ tops or less would probably be fine. Will be using with my Heath signal generator, Tektronix scope and other test equipment for basic radio work.

Cost is a concern and would like to keep it under $100 to my door if possible. I was thinking about a Fluke 1910A/1911A, but perhaps other choices might be better.

Thanks much.

HP made a line of really nice counters that'll set you back a hundred bucks on the 'bay - the 5328A is a nice counter that is sometimes offered cheap. Manuals and parts are easy to find for that counter as well.

Fluke is tough to support - their old stuff is full of unobtanium FETs and obscure parts.

Also, don't be afraid to look for the less pro stuff: Sencore, B&K, and Leader.

Ramsey Electronics and others make some nice little "hobby" counters, mostly based on Intersil ICM7216 counter chips. I've got one of the Ramsey's tied to my audio oscillator (my HP 5345 is used for real work...) and it does fine +/- 30 hz or so. Real stable after a warmup.

Hope this helps,

I just ordered this. http://www.pongrance.com/ddfc-cc.html
Hasn't come yet, so I can't speak to its virtues, but it should meet my needs if it is as advertised, and the price is pretty reasonable.
No affiliation.
Paul