FC1002
ACECO Frequency Counter
Introduction
The Aceco FC1002 hand-held frequency counter is a more practical counter, even advanced features such as field
strength measurement is incorporated. It is compact, truly pocket-sized, test instrument designed for ease of use and
dependable performance. Supplied as a complete with internal NiCd pack, AC wall charger and 7 section telescopic
antenna.
Specifications
Frequency range: 1 MHz - 3 GHz
Weight: 210 g
Size: 80 mm high x 68 mm wide x 31 mm deep
Impedance: 50 Ohms (BNC Socket)
Case: Stamped aluminum with black anodized finish
Battery: Internal 4 x AA 600 mAH NiCd pack
Power: 9 VDC 300 mA
Timebase: Less than 1 PPM at room temperature
Features
l 10 digit Liquid Crystal Display
l Low power consumption (Average 6 hour battery life)
l Supplied with NiCd pack, AC wall charger and telescopic antenna
l Hold switch to lock display
l Low battery indicator
l Ultra sensitive synchronous detector 16 section bargraph to show RF signal strength
l High speed 300 MHz direct counter with 0.1 Hz resolution
l 4 selectable gate speeds
Controls
1. Power Switch - This slide switch turns the counter on and initiates a 2 second test of all the LCD segments.
2. Range Switch - This should be switched to the 300 MHz position for frequencies between 1 MHz and 300 MHz and
switched to the 3 GHz position for frequencies between 10 MHz and 3 GHz.
3. Hold Button - This holds the current display and stops the counter from counting.
4. Gate Button - This selects the gate or measurement time. A longer gate time allows counting for longer period and
results in higher accuracy.
5. Calibration - The calibration adjustment opening is located on the front panel of the counter. This allows access to the
trimmer capacitor that provides about a 10 PPM adjustment range of the time base oscillator. This is not usually
necessary but to do so read a signal of a known frequency before adjusting the trimmer for correct frequency display.
If you calibrate at 4.1943 MHz or above then the counter will be more accurate.
Warranty
Aceco Electronics, Corp. guarantee the counter and its 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 the signal input. Never make any kind of connection
between the RF finder and a transmitter.
Hints and Tips
1. NiCd Operation
This frequency counter can operate for up to six hours from its fully charged NiCd batteries. They are charged when the
unit is plugged into the supplied AC/DC adapter. Full recharge will occur over 12 to 16 hours. Before recharging the
batteries you should be deep cycled occasionally by allowing them to completely discharge to maintain maximum battery
capacity. The NiCd batteries should last for several years. However, it is a good idea to check them every twelve months
for signs of corrosion or leakage. Always replace the whole set if any one cell fails.
2. Signal Input
When using the counter with an antenna for signal pick up, random frequencies may appear on the display. This is quite
normal and is caused by the high gain of the receiver circuits, which amplify noise in the absence of a strong readable
signal. Never get the unit too close to a transmitter as internal damage will result.
3. Antenna Selection
The supplied telescopic antenna is best for general purpose use. This is because its length can be adjusted to suit the
frequency required. Usually you will want a shorter antenna for UHF and a fully extended one for VHF / HF.
4. Reception Distance From Transmitter
The distance from which you will be able to receive frequencies will depend upon the type and location of the transmitting
antenna, transmitter output power and the frequency in use.
Some typical distances are:
Cordless Phone 0.3 meters
Cellular Phone 3 - 20 m
CB radio 2-8m
VHF Two Way Radio 3 - 30 m
UHF Two Way Radio 3 - 30 m
Input Sensitivity ( Typical )
Amplifier: 50 Ohm
Impedance: 50 Ohm VSWR less than 2:1
Range: 1 MHz - 3 GHz
Sensitivity: < 0.8mV at 100 MHz
< 6 mV at 300 MHz
< 7 mV at 1.0 GHz
< 100 mV at 2.4 GHz
Max. input: 15 dBm
RF Signal Strength Bargraph
Frequency 1st Segment Full Scale
27 MHz 7mV 100 mV
150 MHz 5 mV 90 mV
800 MHz 10 mV 200 mV
Frequency Display Resolution
Range Gate Time (Seconds) LSD Sample Display
300 MHz 0.0625 10 Hz 300.00000 MHz
0.25 1 Hz 300.000000 MHz
1.0 1 Hz 300.000000 MHz
4.0 0.1 Hz 300.0000000 MHz
3 GHz 0.0625 1000 Hz 3000.000 MHz
0.25 100 Hz 3000.0000 MHz
1.0 10 Hz 3000.00000 MHz
4.0 10 Hz 3000.00000 MHz
