[time-nuts] Counter Internal Oscillator Importance with External Reference?

[Tom Knox]

Hi All;

How important is the standard, medium, or high stability reference in counters like the 53230A, or FCA3120 when locked to an ultra low phase noise external reference? Particularly when making measurements and adjustments on other ultra high performance references?

I know Agilent sold 53132A counters with an option (H01 I believe) that bypassed the internal reference completely when and external reference is applied, but I think standard configuration on most counter is to discipline the internal reference.

Thanks for your thoughts.

Thomas Knox