Summary of 50 MHz range frequency counter using ATtiny45 microcontroller
This article describes a wide-range frequency meter project utilizing an AT90S231 microcontroller capable of measuring frequencies up to 50 MHz. The system features a six-digit multiplexed seven-segment display for output and employs two cascaded 74HC590 high-speed 8-bit counters to process incoming pulses. To ensure accuracy across varying frequencies, the microcontroller dynamically adjusts the counting interval. The firmware is written in C language.
Parts used in the Wide-Range Frequency Meter:
- AT90S231 microcontroller
- Six-digit multiplexed seven segment displays
- Two external 74HC590 high-speed 8-bit counters
- C firmware code
A wide range frequency meter is an useful tool for an electronics lab. This projects describes a frequency meter based on AT90S231 microcontroller that can measure input frequencies up to 50 MHz. The measured frequency is displayed on 6 digit multiplexed seven segment displays.
It uses two external high-speed 8-bit counters (74HC590) in cascade to count the incoming pulses. Depending upon the input frequency, the counting interval for the external counter circuit is changed by the microcontroller for getting better accuracy. The firmware for AT90S231 is provided in C.
For more detail: 50 MHz range frequency counter using ATTiny45 microcontroller
- What is the maximum frequency this project can measure?
The project can measure input frequencies up to 50 MHz. - How is the measured frequency displayed?
The frequency is displayed on 6 digit multiplexed seven segment displays. - Which microcontroller is used in this design?
An AT90S231 microcontroller is used for the frequency meter. - What components are used to count incoming pulses?
Two external high-speed 8-bit counters (74HC590) are used in cascade. - Does the counting interval remain fixed?
No, the counting interval is changed by the microcontroller depending upon the input frequency. - In which programming language is the firmware written?
The firmware for the AT90S231 is provided in C. - What is the primary purpose of this tool?
It serves as a useful tool for an electronics lab to measure frequency.
