HP 5328A 2-Channel Universal Frequency Counter LED Digital Voltmeter Opt 010 021

HP 5328A 2-Channel Universal Frequency Counter LED Digital Voltmeter Opt 010 021

The Hewlett-Packard 5328A is a benchtop/rackmount universal frequency counter and digital voltmeter in a single integrated instrument. It measures frequency, period, period average, time interval, time interval average, and frequency ratio across two independent input channels, displaying results on a bright 9-digit LED readout with display storage and leading zero blanking. The built-in Digital Voltmeter (DVM) section adds DC voltage measurement capability, making this a versatile lab and production measurement platform. Options 010 and 021 are confirmed installed, as indicated by the rear panel labels.

Specifications & What's Included

• Manufacturer: Hewlett-Packard (HP)
• Model: 5328A Universal Counter
• Options installed: Option 010, Option 021 (confirmed on rear panel)
• Number of input channels: 2 (Channel A and Channel B)
• Measurement functions: Frequency, Period, Period Average, Time Interval, Time Interval Average, Ratio B/A
• Display: 9-digit LED with display storage and leading zero blanking
• Status indicators: OVFL (overflow), RMT (remote), GATE
• Per-channel controls: Level adjust, Slope selector (A/+, A/−), Attenuator (1:1, 10:1, 100:1), AC/DC coupling, Preset
• Marker output: Oscilloscope marker output per channel (BNC)
• Digital Voltmeter section: DCV Range selector, Trigger Level, Sample Rate, Filter, Read A / Read B switches
• Frequency resolution switch: visible on front panel
• Side panel connectors: ARM, STORAGE, OSC ports; 4 BNC connectors
• Rear panel: IEC AC inlet, switchable voltage selector
• AC input voltage: 100 / 120 / 220 / 240V AC (switchable)
• AC frequency: 48–66 Hz
• Power consumption: 150 VA maximum
• Dimensions: 18.5" W × 18" D × 3.5" H
• What's included: HP 5328A counter unit only — no manual, cables, or accessories

Applications

The HP 5328A belongs to Hewlett-Packard's long-running 5300-series universal counter family, instruments that were standard fixtures in RF and electronics labs from the late 1970s through the 1990s. Universal counters of this type are used wherever precise frequency, period, or time-interval measurements are needed — RF circuit development and alignment, oscillator calibration, digital timing verification, and production test. The integrated DVM section reduces bench clutter by combining voltage and frequency measurement in one chassis. Option 010 typically adds a high-frequency channel extension and Option 021 adds GPIB (HP-IB) remote control capability, making the 5328A programmable for automated test systems. The HP-IB interface aligns with the IEEE-488 bus standard, allowing the counter to be controlled by a host computer or integrated into an ATE rack. Today these counters remain valued in legacy lab environments, vintage electronics repair, and educational settings, and by collectors of classic HP test gear.