Counters, Timers & Ratemeters

• Essential electronics for pulse counting, timing, and rate measurement in radiation systems
• Supports high-frequency counting up to 250 MHz (model dependent)
• Measures total counts, elapsed time, and real-time count rates
• Available as single, dual, quad, and multi-function systems
• Includes counter/timer combinations and multichannel scalers (MCS)
• High-precision crystal-controlled timing for accurate measurements
• Models with computer control (RS-232 / CCNIM) for automation and data logging

Wide range of instruments:

• Counters
• Timers
• Rate meters
• Multichannel scalers

Counters, timers, and ratemeters are fundamental electronic instruments used in radiation detection and nuclear measurement systems to quantify and analyze detector signals.

Counters measure the total number of pulses received over a defined period
Timers measure elapsed time or define counting intervals
Ratemeters provide real-time measurement of pulse rates (counts per second)
Multichannel scalers (MCS) record counts over time to generate time-based histograms

These instruments are widely used in conjunction with detectors such as HPGe, scintillation detectors, and silicon detectors, enabling precise measurement of radiation intensity, decay rates, and event timing.

ORTEC offers a comprehensive range of solutions, from basic standalone counters to advanced multi-function systems that integrate counting, timing, and rate measurement into a single platform.

Advanced models provide features such as high-speed counting (up to hundreds of MHz), programmable presets, auto-recycle operation, and computer-controlled data acquisition, making them suitable for both laboratory and field applications.

Product Type: Counter / Timer / Ratemeter / Multichannel Scaler
Functions:

• Pulse counting (event counting)
• Time measurement (elapsed or preset)
• Count rate measurement (counts per second)
• Time-resolved counting (MCS mode)

Counting Capacity: Up to 8 decades (0 to 99,999,999 counts typical)
Maximum Counting Rate:

• Up to 100 MHz (typical models)
• Up to 250 MHz (high-speed models)

Time Base:

• Crystal-controlled clock (high-accuracy timing)
• External time base option available

Measurement Modes:

• Preset time counting
• Preset count timing
• Continuous / auto-recycle counting

Ratemeter Range: Up to 10⁷ counts per second
Interfaces:

• NIM standard modules
• RS-232 / CCNIM (computer control)

Display: LED digital display (8-digit typical)

• Radiation counting and activity measurement
• Nuclear physics experiments
• Detector calibration and testing
• Time-resolved spectroscopy
• Coincidence and timing measurements
• Environmental radiation monitoring
• Laboratory and accelerator-based experiments
• Educational and training systems