A high impedance input buffer provides high gain and isolates the counter to minimize loading of the signal source. The 4-bit band select input enables the counter to directly display your operating band and supports programmable parameters on a per-band basis. These parameters are stored in nonvolatile EEPROM. The 16 character by 2 line display is a high contrast, super twisted nematic LCD that's easily viewable over a wide angle in modest lighting conditions. Three menu-driven pushbuttons are provided to support user programming. Operation is as simple as connecting power and a signal source.
Adding a high frequency prescaler ahead of the FCC-1 extends the nominal 50MHz input range into the GHz region. The FCC-1 will read the frequency directly because you can program the exact division ratio. You can also program the IF offset well into the VHF region for total flexibility. The display calculation allows for all combinations of VFO and IF frequencies.
The kit contains all of the necessary parts. There are no surface mount parts to contend with, so this is a kit suitable for builders with modest soldering experience. The board is solder-masked and has silkscreened component outlines for ease in assembly. The FCC-1 can be hardwired directly into your rig, or you can install your favorite connectors for flexibility.
With a future add-on board, the FCC-1 becomes a DDS frequency synthesizer that's capable of replacing conventional analog VFO's in many applications.
Features:
a.. 16 character by 2 line high contrast LCD
b.. 10 digit frequency display
c.. Band annunciator
d.. 3 pushbuttons for user programming
e.. 16 nonvolatile band memories for programmable parameters
f.. Programmable IF offset in 1Hz increments
g.. Programmable display calculation: Direct, VFO+IF, VFO-IF, IF-VFO
h.. Prescaler compensation
i.. Display averaging to reduce least significant digit dither
j.. Expandable to include a low power DDS VFO with shaft encoder
Specifications:
Dimensions 1.9" x 3.05" x 1.125" (HWD)
Weight 1.5 oz.
Power Supply 7.5-20VDC @ 20mA, typical, reverse polarity protected
Input Sensitivity 30mVrms typical - see Manual
Input Impedance 1Meg || 15pF
Input Frequency Range 500 Hz to >50 MHz
Display Frequency Range 1Hz to >2.1 GHz
Display Resolution 1Hz, 10Hz IF Offset 0 to >268 MHz, programmable per band
Prescale Factor 1 to 255, programmable per band
Gate Period 100 mS, 1 Sec
Band Select 4-bit CMOS level input, with internal pull-ups
Band Annunciator 160m,80m,60m,40m,30m,20m,17m,15m,12m,10m,6m,2m,1.25m,70cm,User,Direct
Controls LCD contrast, calibration, 3 pushbuttons
Inputs Power, Signal, Band Select, Keyline (future use)
Outputs Expansion Connector (future use)
More information is available at the
NorCal Website
