A flow cytometer capable of using electronics to analyze a large dynamic range while avoiding and/or correcting traditional limitations of acquisition electronics. The invention allows for measuring signal characteristics, which may include but are not limited to linear peak, integral, logarithmic peak, and pulse width. Other system parameters may also be generated by the invention to indicate timing or status information. Accurate and precise measurements may be performed by correcting for input errors if needed, and by transforming the input signal to produce a more easily measured form.