Upgraded Algorithm for Implementing the Electronic Counting Frequency Meter Method for Measuring Frequency Deviation

The ways of reducing the error of measurement methods of frequency deviation and expanding the measurement ranges of frequency deviation are considered. The possibilities of reducing the error of the electronic counting frequency meter method using digital signal processing algorithms are investigated. Digital signal processing algorithms are implemented in software developed by the authors on a modern spectrum analyzer. The algorithm for digital signal processing with the spectrum analyzer is described. Using a mathematical model embedded in the calculation algorithm of the developed software, the measurement error of frequency deviation is estimated. The possibility of using the electronic counting frequency meter method with the help of digital signal processing algorithms of the spectrum analyzer has been experimentally investigated. We consider the error sources in the classical method of the electronic counting frequency meter and possible ways of their elimination. Comparisons of the proposed implementation of the electronic counting frequency meter method with the classical method, which is implemented in the State Primary Standard of the unit of frequency deviation GET 166-2020, are carried out. The proposed implementation of the method has expanded the measurement range of frequency deviation towards small values in comparison with the classical method of electronic counting frequency meter. Limitations and prospects of application of the investigated method in reference means of measuring frequency deviation based on analog-to-digital converters are considered.