Abstract
This paper demonstrates that digital signal processing techniques can enhance the quality of phase modulation measurements produced by a time-stamp (phase digitizing) frequency counter. A typical time-stamp counter utilizes a digital divider to reduce signal frequency to the desired sample rate. Unfortunately, division also reduces phase modulation to the point where useful information may be obscured by counter measurement uncertainty (jitter). An analogy between an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) and a time-stamp counter predicts that the counter induced modulation can be modeled as random noise which is white in phase. The noise magnitude is directly related to the instrument's resolution specification. Fourier analysis, subject to some restrictions, can compute the power spectra of phase or frequency modulation, revealing even low level responses. A number of techniques can be used to reduce the amount of counter induced noise that appears on time domain plots of phase and frequency modulation. Experimental data, generated by a prototype counter, illustrates the type of results that can be expected from Fourier analysis and various noise reduction techniques.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: IEEE Transactions on Instrumentation and Measurement
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
