Page 1 Keysight 34420A Nano Volt/ Micro Ohm Meter User’s Guide...
Page 2 Declaration of Conformity set forth specifically in writing else- understood and met. where in the EULA. Keysight shall be Declarations of Conformity for this under no obligation to update, revise or product and for other Keysight prod- otherwise modify the Software.
Page 3: Safety Symbols
Certification Keysight Technologies certifies that this product met its published specifications at the time of shipment from factory. Keysight Technologies further certifies that its calibration measurements are traceable to the United States National Institute of Standards and Technology, to the extend allowed by that organization’s calibration facility, and to the calibration facilities of other INternational Standards Organization members.
Page 4 Failure to comply with these precautions or with specific warnings elsewhere in this manual violates safety standards for design, manufacture, and intended use of the instrument. Keysight Technologies assumes no liability for the customer’s failure to comply with these requirements.
Page 5 Environmental Conditions The 34420A is designed for indoor use and in an area with low condensation. The table below shows the general environmental requirements for this instrument. Environmental cond ition Requirement Operating condition – 0 °C to 55 °C Temperature Storage condition –...
Page 6: Waste Electrical And Electronic Equipment (Weee) Directive
To return this unwanted instrument, contact your nearest Keysight Service Center, or visit http://about.keysight.com/en/companyinfo/environment/takeback.shtml for more information. Sales and Technical Support To contact Keysight for sales and technical support, refer to the support links on the following Keysight websites: – www.keysight.com/find/34420A (product-specific information and support, software and documentation updates) –...
Page 7 The 34420A is a 71/2 digit, high performance nanovolt, micro-ohm meter. Its combination of bench-top and system features makes this meter a versatile solution for your testing requirements now and in the future. Convenient bench-top features – Built-in math operations including thermistor, thermocouple and RTD temperature measurements –...
Page 8: Safety Considerations
1 Input channel select 5 Menu operation keys 2 Measurement function keys 6 Range/number of digits displayed keys 3 Math operation keys 7 Single trigger/autotrigger/auto hold key 4 Filter select key 8 Shift / local key Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 9: Measurement Category
1:PROBE TYPE ) 2: UNITS ) 3: RTD TYPE ) 4:RTD Ro ) 5:T/C TYPE ) 6: COLD JUNCT ) 7:JUNCT C: MATH MENU 1: STATS ) 2: NULL VALUE ) 3: SCALE GAIN ) 4 : SCALE OFST D: TRIGger MENU 1: READ HOLD ) 2: TRIG DELAY ) 3: N SAMPLES Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...

Page 10: Environmental Conditions
1: SECURED ) [1: UNSECURED] ) [2:CALIBRATE] ) [3: CHART ZERO] ) [4 : CHART GAIN] ) [5: INJECTED I] ) 6:CAL COUNT ) 7:MESSAGE The commands enclosed in square brackets ([ ]) in the CAL MENU are "hidden" NOTE unless the meter is UNSECURED for calibration. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 11: Regulatory Information
Automatic reading hold is enabled. Fil t The analog and/or the digital filter is enabled. Turns on when reading memory is enabled. To review the display annunciators, hold down the key as you turn on the Shift meter. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 12: Regulatory Markings
4 Chart recorder output terminal (Analog out) 8 RS-232 interface connector Use the front-panel Input / Output Menu to: – Select the GPIB or RS-232 interface – Set the GPIB bus address – Set the RS-232 baud rate and parity Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 13: Sales And Technical Support
Chapter 8 lists the meter’s specifications and describes how to interpret these specifications. If you have questions relating to the operation of the meter, call NOTE 1-800-452-4844 in the United States, or contact your nearest Keysight Technologies Sales Office. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
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Page 15: Table Of Contents
........35 Front-Panel Operation Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
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Page 20 ......288 Cleaning the Connector Contacts ......297 Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 21 ......... .299 Obtaining Parts For the Input Connector ..... . .300 Specifications Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
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Page 23 Keysight 34420A Nano Volt/Micro Ohm Meter User’s Guide Quick Start Quick Start To Prepare the Meter For Use If the Meter Does Not Turn On To Adjust the Carrying Handle To Make Input Connections To Measure Voltage To Measure Temperature With Thermistors...
Page 24: Quick Start
The rear cover of this book is a fold-out Quick Reference Guide. On this cover NOTE you will find a quick summary of various meter features. Inside the rear cover is a diagram of the front panel menu options. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 25: To Prepare The Meter For Use
If the self-test is successful, “PASS” is displayed on the front panel. If the test is not successful, “FAIL” is displayed and the ERROR annunciator turns on. See the Service Guide for instructions on returning the meter to Keysight Technologies for service.
Page 26: If The Meter Does Not Turn On
Use the following steps to help solve problems you might experience when turning on the meter. If you need more help, see the Service Guide for instructions on returning the meter to Keysight Technologies for service. 1 Verify there is ac power to the meter.
Page 27 3 Rotate the line-voltage selector 4 Replace the fuse-holder assembly until the correct voltage appears in in the rear panel. the window. Install the correct fuse and verify that the correct line voltage appears in the window. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 28: To Adjust The Carrying Handle
Quick Start To Adjust the Carrying Handle To adjust the position, grasp the handle by the sides and pull outward. Then, rotate the handle to the desired position. Bench-top viewing positions Carrying Position Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 29: To Make Input Connections
The connector and cable are an integral part of the measurement system. For NOTE the highest accuracy, use the copper cable and connectors supplied by Keysight Technologies. The conductors may require occasional cleaning to remove oxides. Cleaning the conductors is described on page 297.
Page 30 Quick Start Using a Custom Cable Refer to page 299 for additional information about building custom input cables. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 31: To Measure Voltage
Maximum resolution: 0.1 nV (on 1 mV range) Independent NULL for each channel Channel 1 LO to Channel 2 LO isolated to 150 Vpeak. Scan mode alternates between input channels every 3 seconds or every NOTE measurement, whichever is longer. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 32: To Measure Temperature With Thermistors
Quick Start To Measure Temperature With Thermistors Thermistor type: 5 kW Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 33: To Measure Temperature With Rtds
Quick Start To Measure Temperature With RTDs 4-wire, type: a = .00385 (DIN/IEC 751) or a = .00391 = 4.9 W to 2.1 kW Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 34: To Measure Temperature With Thermocouples
Reference: external thermistor, external fixed value, or internal thermistor. Channel 2 only. When using the internal thermistor as the temperature reference, you should NOTE make a custom cable to connect the thermocouple wire directly to the input terminals (see page 299). Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 35: To Select A Range
(auto or manual) for each channel independently. When manually ranging, the selected range is local to the active channel; the meter remembers the range when you switch between channels. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 36: To Set The Number Of Digits
– The number of digits shown is dependent upon integration time and filter settings. The meter will not allow you to show more digits than the practical measurement capability of the meter. You can, however, reduce the number of digits shown. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 37: To Set The Integration Time
4½). Integration Time is local to the selected function. This means that you can select NOTE the integration time for each function independently. The meter remembers integration time when you switch between functions. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 38: Front-Panel Display Formats
-045.230 mV 5½ digits are displayed. “½” digit 7 digits This is the 1 ohm range, 0.133,256,7 W 7½ digits are displayed. “½” digit O.VLD mV This is an overload indication on the 1 mV range. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 39: To Rack Mount The Meter
Instructions and mounting hardware are included with each rack-mounting kit. Any System II instrument of the same size can be rack-mounted beside the 34420A meter. Remove the carrying handle, and the front and rear rubber bumpers, before rack-mounting the meter.
Page 40 To rack mount two instruments side-by-side, order lock-link kit 5061-9694 and flange kit 5063-9212. To install one or two instruments in a slid ing support shel f, order shel f 5063-9255, and slide kit 1494-0015 (for a single instrument, also order filler panel 5002-3999). Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 41 Keysight 34420A Nano Volt/Micro Ohm Meter User’s Guide Front-Panel Operation Front-Panel Operation Front-Panel Menu Reference A Front-Panel Menu Tutorial To Select an Input Channel To Select a Range To Set or Change the Number of Digits To Set the Integration Time...
Page 42: Front-Panel Operation
It does, however, give you a good overview of the front-panel menu and the most common front-panel operations. See Chapter 3, "Features and Functions" starting on page 65, for a complete discussion of the meter’s capabilities and operation. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 43: Front-Panel Menu Reference
Sets the nominal (0°C) value for the RTD in use. 5: T/C TYPE Selects the type of thermocouple in use. 6: COLD JUNCT Sets the source of the temperature reference junction. 7: JUNCT TEMP Allows direct entry of reference junction temperature. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 44 1: READ HOLD Selects the reading hold sensitivity band. 2: TRIG DELAY Specifies a time delay between the trigger and the start of the measurement. 3: N SAMPLES Sets the number of samples taken per trigger. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 45 Selects either the GPIB or RS-232 remote interface. 3: BAUD RATE Sets the baud rate for RS-232 operation. 4: PARITY Selects even, odd, or no parity for RS-232 operation. 5: LANGUAGE Selects interface language, either SCPI or Keithley 181. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 46 Reads the first 11 characters of a calibration string, if any, entered from the remote interface. [1] The commands enclosed in square brackets ( [ ] ) are “hidden” unless the meter is UNSECURED for calibration. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 47: A Front-Panel Menu Tutorial
– To turn off the menu at any time without saving changes, press any function If you become confused or get lost at any point during the tutorial, simply turn NOTE off the menu and start over again with step 1 for that example. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 48 NOT saved. Press (Menu Enter) to save changes made on the parameter level. Auto/Man VOLTS ONLY - The requested function is only available for voltage measurements. UNAVAILABLE - The action requested is NOT allowed in the present configuration. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 49 2 Move across to the SYS MENU choice on this level. There are six menu group choices available on the menus level. Each choice has a letter prefix for easy identification (A: , B: , etc.). E: SYS MENU Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 50 The first parameter choice is ON for the COMMA command (the comma setting is stored in non-volatile memory and ON is the factory setting). 6 Move across to the OFF choice. There are two parameter choices for COMMA. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 51 This returns you to the COMMA command, which was the last command used before you exited the menu in the Example 1. 9: COMMA 2 Move down to the COMMA parameter choices. The first parameter choice is OFF (the current setting from Example 1). Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 52 6½ digits displayed. Connect the four-wire short to the meter input. 1 Turn on the menu. On/Off Shift You enter the menu on the menus level. The MEAS MENU is your first choice on this level. A: MEAS MENU Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 53 For this example, you will first set the null value to –0.300000 volts. 0.000,000,0 V ˄ When you see the flashing “ ^ ” on the left side of the display, you can abort the edit and return to the “commands” level by pressing ∧ Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 54 You decrement or increment each digit independently. Neighboring digits are not affected. – 0.300,000,0 V 9 Move the flashing cursor over to the units location. Notice that the units are flashing on the right side of the display. – 0.300,000,0 V Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 55 NULL on. You can then edit this number as described. This is the end of the front-panel menu tutorial. The remainder of the chapter NOTE discusses several of the most common front-panel operations. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 56: To Select An Input Channel
Channel Scan mode alternates between input channels every 3 seconds or every NOTE measurement, whichever is longer. If you are using the scan mode, turn off all the input filters (both digital and analog), see page Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 57: To Select A Range
(auto or manual) for each channel independently. When manually ranging, the selected range is local to the active channel; the meter remembers the range when you switch between channels. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 58: To Set Or Change The Number Of Digits
– The number of digits shown is dependent upon integration time and filter settings. The meter will not allow you to show more digits than the practical measurement capability of the meter. You can, however, reduce the number of digits shown. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 59: To Set The Integration Time
4½). Integration Time is local to the selected function. This means that you can select NOTE the integration time for each function independently. The meter remembers integration time when you switch between functions. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 60: To Make Null (Relative) Measurements
– After enabling null, you can edit the stored null value by pressing Shift (Menu Recall). This takes you to the “NULL VALUE” command in the MATH MENU (only if null is enabled). Go down to the “parameter” level, and then edit the displayed value. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 61: To Store Minimum And Maximum Readings (Stats)
(Menu On/Off) returns to Shift the measurement display and continues stats operations. – The stored values are cleared when you turn stats on, turn off the power, or perform either a remote interface reset or preset. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 62 – The average and standard deviation are of all readings taken since stats was enabled (not just the average of the stored minimum and maximum). The count is the total number of readings taken since stats was enabled. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 63: To Trigger The Meter
Ext Trig terminal. The meter is triggered on the negative edge of a TTL pulse. The front-panel key is disabled when in remote. Single Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 64: To Use Reading Hold
Go down to the “parameter” level, and then select a value: 0.01%, 0.10%, 1.00%, or 10.00% of reading. – The sensitivity band is stored in volatile memory; the meter sets the band to 0.10% of reading when power has been off or after a remote interface reset. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 65: To Make Voltage Ratio And Difference Measurements
If null is used on either input channel, the ‘Null’ annunciator will flash when the difference function is selected. If you null the difference, the ‘Null’ annunciator will be steady. [1] The difference null is only available from the front panel. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 66: To Use Reading Memory
3 Turn on the menu. On/Off Shift A: MEAS MENU 4 Move across to the SYS MENU choice on this level. B: SYS MENU 5 Move down to a level to the RDGS STORE command. 1: RDGS STORE Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 67 After a brief pause, the reading number is removed and all reading digits are shown. The stored readings are displayed with their units (m, m, k, etc.) when appropriate. For example: Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 68 The readings are stored horizontally on the “parameter” level. If you press when you first get to the “parameter” level, you will see the last reading and you will know how many readings were stored. 12 Turn off the menu. On/Off Shift EXITING Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 69: Features And Functions
Keysight 34420A Nano Volt/Micro Ohm Meter User’s Guide Features and Functions Features and Functions General Measurement Configuration Voltage Measurement Configuration Resistance Measurement Configuration Temperature Measurement Configuration Math Operations Null (Relative) Operation Reading Hold Triggering System-Related Operations Voltmeter Complete Terminal External Trigger Terminal...
Page 70 37, you may want to read it now. Chapter 4, "Remote Interface Reference" starting on page 129, lists the syntax for the SCPI (Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments) commands available to program the meter. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 71 . Triangle brackets ( <> ) indicate that you must substitute a value for the enclosed parameter. The actual command string you send to the meter should not include any of the conventions indicated above. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 72: General Measurement Configuration
The digital filter may be used for any measurement type. The analog filter is only available for thermocouple temperature measurements and voltage measurements on the 1 mV, 10 mV, or 100 mV ranges. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 73 See page 184 Chapter 4. You should check the state of this bit for each reading to ensure the digital filter count has not reset (filter reset operation is described in the next section). Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 74 – Use the analog filter only when line power noise (50/60 Hz) is causing an overload (OVLD) condition. See page – The analog filter is available for voltage and thermocouple temperature measurements. The analog filter is not available for resistance measurements. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 75: Integration Time
(the minimum number of digits shown is 4½). Digital Fil ter Off Digital Fil ter On NPLC Max Digits Shown Max Digits Shown 0.02 4½ 5½ 5½ 6½ 6½ 7½ 6½ 7½ 6½ 7½ 7½ 7½ 7½ 7½ 7½ 7½ Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 76: Reducing Measurement Noise
Averaging can be performed in the meter by using either the digital filter or by using the statistics (Stats) mode of operation. Measurement noise characteristics of the meter closely match theoretical gaussian noise distributions. The graph on the next page shows typical input Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 77 (see page 54). You can also set the integration time in the MEASurement menu with the 2: INTEGRATE command. Enable the digital filter and set the filter reading average as described on page Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 78: Number Of Digits Displayed
The meter will not allow you to show more digits than the practical measurement capability of the meter. You can, however, reduce the number of digits shown. The minimum number of digits available is 4½. (See the table on page 71). Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 79 7½ digits are displayed. “½” digit 6 digits This is the 1 mV range, 0.216,569 mV 6½ digits are displayed. “½” digit 5 digits This is the 100 mV range, –045.231 mV 5½ digits are displayed. “½” digit Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 80: Ranging
CONFigure subsystems. For example: CONF:VOLT:DC 10.0 Sets the 10 Volt DC range Range can be set directly with the SENSe subsystem. For example: SENS:VOLT:DC:RANGe 0.001 Sets the 1 mV DC range SENS:RES:RANGE:AUTO Sets auto ranging on 2-wire resistance measurements Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 81: Overload Detection
Features and Functions Overload Detection The 34420A uses both an analog and digital method to generate an overload condition and display the OVLD message. An understanding of the cause of the overload can help you make more accurate measurements. Digital Overload Detection The digital overload detect occurs when the magnitude of the measurement is greater than 120% of the Range.
Page 82: Voltage Measurement Configuration
Choose the scan mode to alternately show the CH1 and CH2 readings. Disable the digital filter when using the scan mode. In scan mode, the meter alternates between the CH1 and CH2 readings every 3 seconds or for each measurement (whichever is longer). Scan Shift Channel Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 83 – Remote operation: use the following commands to measure or configure a difference or ratio measurement. Set each channel to the appropriate range and null conditions using: [SENSe1:|SENSe2:] VOLTage:DC :RANGE <range> :NULL:STATe {OFF|ON} :NULL:VALue {<value>|MIN|MAX} [1] The difference null is only available from the front panel. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 84 Features and Functions Then use the following commands to measure the ratio or difference: MEASure:VOLTage:DC :RATIO? :DIFFerence? CONFigure:VOLTage:DC :RATIO :DIFFerence [SENSe:]FUNCtion "VOLTage:RATio" [SENSe:]FUNCtion "VOLTage:DIFFerence" Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 85: Resistance Measurement Configuration
Not Available 10 kW 100 mA 10 mA Not Available 10 mA 5 mA Not Available 100 kW 5 mA 5 mA Not Available 1 MW [a] Offset Compensation is not applied to measurements on these ranges Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 86 – Front Panel operation: set low power mode under the 4: LOW POWER W command in the MEASure menu. – Remote operation: use the following command to set the low power ohms mode: SENSe:FRESistance:POWer:LIMit {OFF|ON} Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 87 Set the voltage limit under the 6: LoV LIMIT W command in the MEASure menu. – Remote operation: the following command enables or disable the low voltage limit mode: SENSe:FRESistance:VOLTage:LIMit {OFF|ON} Set the limit with the following command: SENSe:FRESistance:VOLTage:LIMit:VALue {<value>|MIN|MAX} Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 88: Temperature Measurement Configuration
– The measurement units set are stored in non-volatile memory. – Front Panel Operation: Set the units under the 2: UNITS command in the TEMPerature menu. – Remote operation: Set the units using the following command: UNIT:TEMPerature {C|F|K} Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 89: Rtd Measurements
– Front Panel operation: Set THERM as the transducer type under the 1: PROBE TYPE command in the TEMPerature menu. – Remote operation: use the following commands for temperature measurements with a thermistor: CONFigure:TEMPerature THER, DEF,[,1,<resolution>] MEASure:TEMPerature? THER, DEF,[,1,<resolution>] SENSe:FUNCtion "TEMPerature" SENSe:TEMPerature:TRANsducer:TYPE THER Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 90: Thermocouple Measurements
–1 °C to 55 °C. – Remote operation: use the following commands for temperature measurements using thermocouples: CONFigure:TEMPerature TC,{B|E|J|K|N|R|S|T}[,1,<resolution>] MEASure:TEMPerature? TC,{B|E|J|K|N|R|S|T}[,1,<resolution>] SENSe: FUNCtion "TEMPerature" TEMPerature:TRANsducer :TYPE TC :TCouple :TYPE {B|E|J|K|N|R|S|T} :RJUNction:TYPE {FIXed|INTernal|THERmistor} :RJUNction {<reference>|MIN|MAX} Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 91: Math Operations
CALCulate command subsystem. First, select the math operation you want to use CALCulate:FUNCtion SCALe Then, set the values for gain and offset. CALCulate:SCALe:GAIN <gain> CALCulate:SCALe:OFFSet <offset> Finally, enable the selected math function by turning the math state on: CALCulate:STATe ON Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 92 When you have finished collecting readings, obtain the desired statistics: CALCulate:AVERage :MINimum? :MAXimum? :AVERage? :SDEViation? :PTPeak? :COUNt? After reading the statistics, supply another trigger to continue taking measurements and collecting statistics. Measurements are not taken while reading the results. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 93 The null value parameter in the command tells the meter not to store the individual readings. The meter does, however, accumulate statistics on the readings. This method removes the 1024 reading limitation and you can calculate statistics on any number of readings. See page 166 for more information. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 94: Null (Relative) Operation
Additionally, when using the difference function, an additional difference null can be applied (the difference null is only available from the front panel). See page 79 for a description of how null is applied to difference and ratio functions. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 95 SENS:RES:NULL ON SENS:RES:NULL 0.10 You can use the first reading as a null value from the remote interface by first setting the function, range, and resolution and then executing the following command: [SENSe:]NULL [{OFF|ON|ONCE}] Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 96: Reading Hold
– For certain applications, it may be useful to use reading hold with reading memory. See also “Reading Memory” on page 103. – Front Panel operation: After enabling reading hold, you can select a different sensitivity band by pressing (Menu Recall). Shift 1: READ HOLD Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 97: Triggering
– Then, you must make sure that the meter is ready to accept a trigger from the specified trigger source (this is called the wait-for-trigger state). – Finally, to make the measurement, you must provide an INITiate, READ?, or MEASure command. The diagram on the next page shows the meter’s triggering system. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 98 Features and Functions Triggering Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 99: Trigger Source Choices
‘Trig’ annunciator turns on when the meter is waiting for a trigger. Pressing the key also allows the meter to accept triggers on the Ext Trig Single terminal. The front-panel key is disabled when in remote. Single Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 100 The ‘Trig’ annunciator turns on when the meter is waiting for an external trigger. The front-panel key is disabled when in remote. Single – Remote operation: Use the following command to enable external trigger. TRIGger:SOURce EXTernal Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 101 – You can also trigger the meter from the GPIB interface by sending the IEEE-488 Group Execute Trigger (GET) message. The meter must be in the wait-for-trigger state. The following statement shows how to send a GET from a Hewlett-Packard controller. TRIGGER 722 (group execute trigger) Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 102: The Wait-For-Trigger State
If you have set the meter to infinite sampling (TRIGger:COUNt INFinity), the NOTE device clear is the only way to halt the measurements. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 103: Number Of Samples
(MAX) or can be set to be INFinity. When the trigger count is set to be infinite, use the READ? command to collect the readings. Send a device clear to stop the measurements. See page 203 for information about device clear. TRIGger:COUNt {<value>|MIN|MAX|INFinity} Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 104: Trigger Delay
Set the delay time in the 2: TRIG DELAY command of the TRIGger menu. If an automatic trigger delay is enabled, “AUTO” is displayed momentarily before the actual number of seconds is displayed. AUTO Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 105 AUTO DELAY is reached, then press Enter AUTO DELAY – Remote operation: You can use the following command to set the trigger delay. TRIGger:DELay {<seconds>|MIN|MAX} You can use the following command to set an automatic trigger delay. TRIGger:DELay:AUTO {OFF|ON} Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 106: Automatic Trigger Delays
100 kW 4 ms 6 ms 1 MW 40 ms 60 ms – Temperature: NPLC < 1 NPLC ≥1 Trigger Delay Trigger Delay 1.0 ms 1.5 ms THERmistor 1.0 ms 1.5 ms ThermoCouple 1.0 ms 1.5 ms Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 107: System-Related Operations
– Remote interface operation: The INITiate command uses reading memory to store readings prior to a FETCh? command. You can query the number of stored readings in memory by sending the DATA:POINts? command from the remote interface. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 108: Error Conditions
First error in queue Error code – Remote interface operation: use the following command to read the errors. SYSTem:ERRor? Errors have the following format (the error string may contain up to 80 characters). –113, "Undefined header" Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 109: Self-Test
– If the complete self-test is successful, “PASS” is displayed on the front panel. If the self-test fails, “FAIL” is displayed and the ERROR annunciator turns on. See the 34420A Service Guide for instructions on returning the meter to Keysight for service.
Page 110: Display Control
DISPlay:TEXT <quoted string> clear the message in the display DISPlay:TEXT:CLEar The following statement shows how to display a message on the front panel from a Hewlett-Packard controller. OUTPUT 722; "DISP:TEXT ’HELLO’" Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 111: Comma Separators
– Front-panel operation: read the revisions under the 11: REVISION command in the SYStem menu: X.X-X.X-X.X – Remote operation: use the following command to read the revision: returns *IDN? “KEYSIGHT TECHNOLOGIES,34420A,0,X.X-X.X-X.X” Be sure to dimension a string variable with at least 40 characters. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 112: Scpi Language Version
– The following command returns the SCPI version. SYSTem:VERSion? Returns a string in the form “YYYY.V” where the “Y’s” represent the year of the version, and the “V” represents a version number for that year (for example, 1994.0). Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 113: Voltmeter Complete Terminal
Voltmeter Complete Terminal The rear-panel VM Comp (voltmeter complete) terminal provides a low-true pulse after the completion of each measurement. Voltmeter complete and external trigger (see below) implement a standard hardware handshake sequence between measurement and switching devices. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 114: External Trigger Terminal
(external trigger) terminal. To use this terminal from the remote interface, you must select the external trigger source (TRIGger:SOURce EXTernal). You can use a simple switch to generate an external trigger using the Ext Trig input as shown below. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 115: Chart Output (Analog Output)
0.001 span - - - - - - - - - - - 0.001 1.00 When chart null is set to 0, the value can be considered the gain and chart output = gain * reading. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 116 7: CHART NULL command where you can manually edit the null value. – Remote operation: use the following commands to enable and set the chart output values. OUTPut {OFF|ON} OUTPut:REFerence :OFFSet {<number>|MIN|MAX} :OFFSet:NULL :SPAN {<number>|MIN|MAX} :SPAN? :VALue {<number>|MIN|MAX} :GAIN? Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 117: Chart Rollover
The result, on a strip chart, is a step from one limit to the opposite limit, effectively shifting the chart range and center values. By counting the steps and noting their direction, the actual measurement values can be deduced. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 118 If the actual measured temperatures ranged from 20° C to 100° C, a strip chart recorder might look like the one shown. The actual measurements recorded could be reconstructed by cutting and pasting the chart between the rollovers. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 119: Remote Interface Configuration
119). The only programming language supported on RS-232 is SCPI. – Front Panel operation: set the interface under the 2: INTERFACE command in the I/O menu. See also “To Select the Remote Interface” on page 207. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 120: Gpib Address
Hewlett-Packard controllers generally use address “21”. – Front Panel operation: set the address under the 1: GPIB ADDR command in the I/O menu. See also “To Set the GPIB Address” on page 205. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 121: Baud Rate Selection (Rs-232)
“To Set the Baud Rate” on page 209. – Remote operation: use the following commands to set the baud rate: SYStem:COMMunicate:SERial:BAUD <baud> If you change the baud rate over the remote interface, you may lose control of the meter. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 122: Parity Selection (Rs-232)
“To Set the Parity” on page 211. – Remote operation: use the following commands to set the parity: SYStem:COMMunicate:SERial:PARity {EVEN|ODD|NONE} If you change the parity over the remote interface, you may lose control of the meter. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 123: Programming Language Selection
– Front Panel operation: set the programming language under the 5: LANGUAGE command in the I/O menu. See also “To Select the Programming Language” on page 213. – Remote operation: use the following command to set the language: SYStem:LANGuage <language> Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 124: Connection To A Terminal Or Printer (Rs-232)
If you are using the RS-232 interface for connection to a printer, you may wish to use the Talk Only mode. This mode is enabled by setting the GPIB address to 31. page 204 for more information. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 125: Calibration
If you secure the meter from the remote interface and the secure code you use NOTE does not have the first two characters “KT” and the next 6 characters as digits, you cannot unsecure the meter from the front panel. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 126 1: UNSECURED – Remote operation: use the following command: CALibration:SECure:STATe {OFF|ON},<code> To unsecure the meter, send the above command with the same code used to secure. For example, CAL:SEC:STAT OFF, KT034420 Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 127 1: SECURED – Remote operation: use the following command: CALibration:SECure:STATe {OFF|ON},<code> To secure the meter, send the above command with the same code as used to unsecure. For example, CAL:SEC:STAT ON, KT034420 Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 128: Calibration Count
– The calibration count increments up to a maximum of 32,767 after which it wraps-around to 0. – Front-Panel operation: read the calibration count under the 3: CAL COUNT command in the CALibrate menu. – Remote operation: use the following command: CALibration:COUNt? Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 129: Calibration Message
4: MESSAGE command in the CALibrate menu. – Remote operation: use the following command to store a calibration message: CALibration:STRing <quoted string> The following statement shows how to store a calibration message from a Hewlett-Packard controller. OUTPUT 722; "CAL:STR ’CAL 9-1-94’" Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 130: Defaults, Power-On And Reset States
[b] Integration Time, Null, and Range are independent in each function. CONFigure or MEASure commands will only affect the Integration Time, Null, or Range for the function used. [c] You should ensure the digital filter is turned off when using the remote interface. See page Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 131 RTD R °C Temperature Units Chart Out 1 mV Chart Span 0.00 V Chart Offset Comma [a] The digital filter is ON following a Front Panel PRESET. The digital filter is OFF following a Remote Interface PRESET. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 132 Readings Store [a] The meter may change the set resistance measurement range when voltage limited measurements are enabled. [b] Analog filter available for voltage and thermocouple measurements on the 1 mV, 10 mV, and 100 mV ranges. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 133 Keysight 34420A Nano Volt/Micro Ohm Meter User’s Guide Remote Interface Reference Command Summary Simplified Programming Sequence MEASure? and CONFigure Defaults Setting the Function, Range, and Resolution Selecting the Input Channel Special Resistance Measurement Commands Temperature Measurement Commands Null (Relative) Commands...
Page 134 Remote Interface Reference To Set the Baud Rate To Set the Parity To Select the Programming Language To Select the Programming Language Alternate Programming Language Compatibility SCPI Compliance Information IEEE-488 Compliance Information Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 135: Remote Interface Reference
– “Using Device Clear to Halt Measurements” on page 203 – “TALK ONLY for Printers” on page 204 – “To Set the GPIB Address” on page 205 – “To Select the Remote Interface” on page 207 Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 136 216 – “IEEE-488 Compliance Information” on page 219 If you are a first-time user of the SCPI language, refer to these sections to become familiar with the language before attempting to program the meter. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 137: Command Summary
Triangle brackets ( <> ) indicate that you must substitute a value for the enclosed parameter. The actual command string you send to the meter should not include any of the conventions indicated above. First-time SCPI users, see page 198. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 138 [SENSe:] | SENSe1: | SENSe2: VOLTage[:DC]:NULL[:STATe] {OFF | ON} VOLTage[:DC]:NULL[:STATe]? VOLTage[:DC]:NULL:VALue {<value> | MIN | MAX} VOLTage[:DC]:NULL:VALue? ROUTe :TERMinals {FRONt | FRONt1 | FRONt2} :TERMinals? [1] <channel> is one of: {FRONt | FRONt1 | FRONt2 | 1 | 2} Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 139 :NPLCycles {0.02 | 0.2 | 1 | 2 | 10 | 20 | 100 | 200 | MIN | MAX} :NPLCycles? [MIN | MAX] [SENSe:] FRESistance | RESistance :NULL[:STATe] {OFF | ON} :NULL[:STATe]? :NULL:VALue {<value> | MIN | MAX} :NULL:VALue? [SENSe:] FRESistance | RESistance :OCOMpensated {OFF | ON} :OCOMpensated? Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 140 TEMPerature:NULL[:STATe] {OFF | ON} TEMPerature:NULL[:STATe]? TEMPerature:NULL:VALue {<value> | MIN | MAX} TEMPerature:NULL:VALue? [SENSe:] TEMPerature:NPLCycles {0.02 | 0.2 | 1 | 2 | 10 | 20 | 100 | 200 | MIN | MAX} TEMPerature:NPLCycles? {MIN | MAX} Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 141 Math Operation Commands CALCulate :FUNCtion {AVERage | SCALe} :FUNCtion? [:STATe] {OFF | ON} [:STATe]? CALCulate :AVERage:MINimum? :AVERage:MAXimum? :AVERage:AVERage? :AVERage:COUNt? :AVERage:PTPeak? :AVERage:SDEViation? CALCulate :SCALe:GAIN {<gain>} :SCALe:GAIN? :SCALe:OFFSet {<offset>} :SCALe:OFFSet? DATA :FEED RDG_STORE,[{"CALC" | ""}] :FEED? RDG_STORE :POINts? Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 142 :REFerence:OFFSet {<number> | MIN | MAX} :REFerence:OFFSet? [{MIN | MAX}] :REFerence:OFFSet:NULL :REFerence:SPAN [{<number> | MIN | MAX}] :REFerence:SPAN? [{MIN | MAX}] :REFerence:GAIN? :REFerence:VALue {<value> | MIN | MAX} System-Related Commands FETCh? READ? DATA :FEED RDG_STORE,[{"CALC" | ""}] :FEED? RDG_STORE :POINts? Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 143 Status Reporting Commands SYSTem:ERRor? STATus :OPERation:CONDition? :OPERation:ENABle <enable value> :OPERation:ENABle? :OPERation[:EVENt]? :QUEStionable:CONDition? :QUEStionable:ENABle <enable value> :QUEStionable:ENABle? :QUEStionable[:EVENt]? STATus:PRESet *CLS *STB? *ESE <enable value> *PSC {0 | 1} *ESE? *PSC? *ESR? *SRE <enable value> *SRE? *OPC *OPC? Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 144 :VALue <value> :VALue? Remote Interface Commands SYSTem :INTerface {GPIB | RS232} :INTerface? SYSTem :COMMunicate:SERial:BAUD <baud> :COMMunicate:SERial:BAUD? :COMMunicate:SERial:PARity {EVEN | ODD | NONE} :COMMunicate:SERial:PARity? SYSTem :LANGuage {SCPI | 181} :LOCal :REMote :RWLock L1X (SCPI language) L2X (181 language) Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 145 Remote Interface Reference IEEE-488.2 Common Commands *CLS *ESE <enable value> *ESE? *ESR? *IDN? *OPC *OPC? *PSC {0 | 1} *PSC? *RST *SRE <enable value> *SRE? *STB? *TRG *TST? *WAI Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 146: Simplified Programming Sequence
The default measurement parameters, common to all functions or channels, used by the meter are shown in the table on the next page. Using the digital filter is not recommended from the remote interface, NOTE page Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 147 Non-volatile memory parameters are not modified and the MEASure? or CONFigure commands use parameters in memory. See page 126. For example, the temperature units last set are stored in non-volatile memory and are not changed by a MEASure? or CONFigure command. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 148: Using The Measure? Command
Use the resolution parameter to specify the desired resolution for the measurement. Setting the resolution sets the integration time of the meter. The resolution parameter can be set to any number but the resulting integration time (NPLC) is one of the following: Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 149: Using The Read? Command
Readings are not stored in the meter’s internal memory when using the READ? command. Sending the READ? command is like sending the INITiate command followed immediately by the FETCh? command, except readings are not buffered internally. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 150: Using The Initiate And Fetch? Commands
The INIT and FETCh? commands use the meter’s memory. You can defeat the NOTE storing of readings, and still obtain the statistics on the readings using the DATA:FEED command. See page 166. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 151 The FETCh? command transfers the reading from internal memory to the output buffer. CONF:VOLT:DC 10, MIN, (@FRONt1) TRIG:SOUR EXT INIT FETC? bus enter statement Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 152 Note that resolution is common to both channels, the NPLC in effect will be the NPLC set by the last CONFigure command the meter receives. CONFigure:VOLT:DC 10, MAX, (@FRONt1) CONFigure:VOLT:DC 1, MAX, (@FRONt2) ROUTe:TERMinals FRONt1 READ? bus enter statement ROUTe:TERMinals FRONt2 READ? bus enter statement Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 153: The Measure? And Configure Commands
[{<range> | AUTO | MIN | MAX | DEF}][,{<resolution> | MIN | MAX | DEF}] This command presets and makes a difference measurement with the specified range and resolution. The reading is sent to the output buffer. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 154 This command does not initiate the measurement. For ratio measurements, the specified range applies to the signal connected to the Channel 1 terminals. Autoranging is selected for voltage measurements on the Channel 2 terminals. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 155 This command presets and configures the meter for temperature measurements using the specified probe type and resolution. This command does not initiate the measurement. DEF defaults to the last probe type set. CONFigure? This command queries the meter’s present configuration and return a quoted string. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 156: Setting The Function, Range, And Resolution
This command sets the range for the function specified. MIN selects the lowest range. MAX selects the highest range. [volatile memory] [{SENSe1: | SENSe2:}]VOLTage[:DC]:RANGe? [MIN | MAX] [SENSe:] FRESistance | RESistance :RANGe? {MIN | MAX} This command queries the function range setting. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 157 MAX selects the largest value accepted which gives the least resolution. [volatile memory] [SENSe1: | SENSe2:]VOLTage:[DC:]RESolution? [{MIN | MAX}] [SENSe:] FRESistance | RESistance :RESolution? [{MIN | MAX}] This command queries the resolution for the selected function. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 158 (the default is 10 PLC). MIN = 0.02. MAX = 200. [volatile memory] [SENSe1: | SENSe2:]VOLTage[:DC]:NPLCycles? {MIN | MAX} [SENSe:] FRESistance | RESistance :NPLCycles? {MIN | MAX} [SENSe:]TEMPerature:NPLCycles? {MIN | MAX} This command queries the integration time for the selected function. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 159: Selecting The Input Channel
Select channel 1 ROUTe:TERMinals FRONt1 Channel 1 measurement READ? Select channel 2 ROUTe:TERMinals FRONt2 Channel 2 measurement READ? You can determine which input channel is active with the query: ROUTe:TERMinals? The query returns either FRON1 or FRON2. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 160: Special Resistance Measurement Commands
This command enables or disables the 4-wire voltage limited resistance mode (see page 83). The voltage limit <value> parameter will be rounded to one of three values: 20 mV, 100 mV, or 500 mV MIN sets 20 mV and MAX sets 500 mV. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 161: Temperature Measurement Commands
(thermocouple), THER (Thermistor), or FRTD (four-wire RTD). The DEF (default) option sets the last probe type used. Set the thermocouple type in the second parameter. Set to DEF for thermistors. The optional parameter, 1, is a place holder to allow you to set the resolution. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 162 (INT), or can use a thermistor connected to channel 1 (THER). When type is set to FIX, use to set the SENSe:TEMPerature:TRANsducer:TCouple:RJUNction <value> reference temperature. [SENSe:]TEMPerature:TRANsducer:TCouple:RJUNction:TYPE ? This command queries for the type of reference junction being used for thermocouple measurements. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 163 This command queries for the RTD R value being used. UNIT:TEMPerature {C | CEL | F | FAR | K} This command sets the measurement and reporting units for temperature measurements. UNIT:TEMPerature? This command queries the temperature measurement reporting units. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 164: Null (Relative) Commands
Null must be enabled before the null value can be set. The null value set must be in the range of -300 °C to 2000 °C. Null is common to all temperature measurements, that is, enabling null for one probe type enables null for all probe types. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 165 This command enables or disables null for the active channel or function. OFF or ON disables or enables null using a value set in the null register. ONCE enables null and makes the next reading the null value. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 166: Input Filter Commands
70). You must use the STATus:OPERation:CONDition register to determine if the filter is settled with each reading taken. – The analog filter significantly slows the reading rate. The input filters are disabled following a remote interface reset (*RST) or preset (SYStem:PREset). Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 167 :DIGital:PRECharge? These commands enable or disable the digital filter precharge and query the digital filter precharge setting. Disabling the digital filter precharge prevents the filter from resetting based upon the measured value (see page 70 Chapter Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 168: Math Operation Commands
This command queries the present math function. Returns SCAL or AVER. CALCulate[:STATe] {OFF | ON} This command disables or enables the selected math function. [volatile memory] CALCulate[:STATe]? This command queries the state of the math function. Returns “0” (OFF) or “1” (ON). Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 169: Statistics Operation Commands (Average)
This command returns the standard deviation of all readings taken since math was enabled. The meter clears the value when math is turned on, when power has been off, or after a remote interface reset. [volatile memory] Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 170: Scale Operation Commands
This command queries the current gain. CALCulate:SCALe:OFFSet <offset> This command sets the offset of the readings scale according to y = mx + b. The offset is the b value. CALCulate:SCALe:OFFSet? This command queries the current offset. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 171: Triggering
– Then, you must make sure that the meter is ready to accept a trigger from the specified trigger source (this is called the wait-for-trigger state). The diagram on the next page shows the meter’s triggering system. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 172 Remote Interface Reference Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 173: The Wait-For-Trigger State
MEASure? READ? INITiate The meter requires approximately 20 ms of set-up time after you send a NOTE command to change to the "wait-for-trigger" state. Any external triggers that occur during this set-up time are ignored. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 174: Triggering Commands
After you set the trigger source, you still need to send an INITiate command to move the meter to the wait-for-trigger state. [volatile memory] TRIGger:SOURce? This command queries the present trigger source. Returns “BUS”, “IMM”, or “EXT”. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 175 “idle” state). Trigger count is ignored while in local operation. MIN = 1 and MAX = 50,000. [volatile memory] TRIGger:COUNt? [{MIN | MAX}] This command queries the trigger count. If you specify an infinity trigger count, the query command returns “9.90000000E+37”. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 176: Chart Output (Analog Out) Commands
:REFerence:VALue {<value> | MIN | MAX}] This command allows you to set a fixed value output. The value can be set in the range of ±3.00 V. MIN sets -3.00 V and MAX sets +3.00 V. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 177: System-Related Commands
11 characters in a message; any additional characters are truncated. [volatile memory] DISPlay:TEXT? This command queries the message sent to the front panel and returns a quoted string. DISPlay:TEXT:CLEar This command clears the message in the display. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 178 This command performs a complete self-test of the meter. Returns “0” if the self-test is successful, or “1” if the test fails. *IDN? This command reads the meter’s identification string (be sure to dimension a string variable with at least 40 characters). Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 179: The Scpi Status Model
The STATus:PRESet command will clear the questionable data enable register. To enable bits in an enable register, you must write a decimal value which corresponds to the binary-weighted sum of the bits you wish to enable in the register. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 180: What Is A Condition Register
A condition register actively indicates the current state of the instrument. Bits in the condition register are not latched, and change as the conditions within the instrument change. The event register latches the changes in the condition register bits. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 181: Scpi Status System
Remote Interface Reference SCPI Status System + See page 184 for information on the use of this bit. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 182: The Status Byte
(bits must be "enabled" in the enable register). 6 Request Service The meter is requesting service (serial poll). One or more bits are set in the Operational Event 7 Operational Status register (bits must be "enabled" in the enable register). Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 183: Using Service Request (Srq) And Serial Poll
Use the *OPC? command to guarantee that commands previously sent to the instrument have completed. Executing a serial poll before a *RST, *CLS, or other commands have completed can cause previous conditions to be reported. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 184: Using *Stb? To Read The Status Byte
– Clear the event registers with the *CLS (clear status) command. – Enable “operation complete” using the *ESE 1 command (standard event register). – Send your programming command string, and place the *OPC (operation complete) command as the last command. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 185: How To Use The Message Available Bit (Mav)
However, if too many messages are generated before the *OPC command executes (sequentially), the output buffer will fill and the meter will stop taking readings. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 186: The Standard Event Register
5 Command Error -101 through -158 in Chapter 6 Not Used Always set to 0. Power has been turned off and on since the last time the 7 Power On event register was read or cleared. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 187: The Questionable Data Register
2 Not Used Always set to 0. 3 Not Used Always set to 0. 4 Temperature Overload Range overload on temperature measurements. 5 Not Used Always set to 0. 6 Not Used Always set to 0. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 188: The Operational Status And Condition Registers
70 for information about the operation of the digital filter. You can read the operational status condition register to determine the digital filter state on a per measurement basis. You can read the operational status event Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 189 – You query the event register using STATus:OPERation:EVENt?. The operational status enable register is cleared when: – You turn on the power (*PSC does not apply). – You execute the STATus:PRESet command. – You execute the STATus:OPERation:ENABle 0 command. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 190: Status Reporting Commands
This command enables bits in the Questionable Data enable register. The selected bits are then reported to the Status Byte. STATus:OPERation:ENABle? This command queries the Questionable Data enable register. The meter returns a binary-weighted decimal representing the bits set in the enable register. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 191 *OPC This command sets the “operation complete” bit (bit 0) in the Standard Event register after the command is executed. *OPC? This command returns “1” to the output buffer after the command is executed. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 192 This command enables bits in the Status Byte enable register. *SRE? This command queries the Status Byte enable register. The meter returns a decimal value which corresponds to the binary-weighted sum of all bits set in the register. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 193: Calibration Commands
This command unsecures or secures the meter for calibration. The calibration code may contain up to 11 characters. [non-volatile memory] CALibration:SECure:STATe? This command queries the secured state of the meter. Returns “0” (OFF) or “1” (ON). Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 194 This command queries the calibration message and return a quoted string. CALibration:VALue <value> This command specifies the value of the known calibration signal used by the calibration procedure. CALibration:VALue? This command queries the present calibration value. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 195: Rs-232 Interface Configuration
– Parity and Data Bits: None / 8 data bits (factory setting) Even / 7 data bits, or Odd / 7 data bits – Number of Start Bits 1 bit (fixed) – Number of Stop Bits 2 bits (fixed) Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 196: Rs-232 Data Frame Format
If you cannot find the correct cable for your configuration, you may have to use a wiring adapter. If you are using a DTE-to-DTE cable, make sure the adapter is a "straight-through" type. Typical adapters include gender changers, null-modem adapters, and DB-9 to DB-25 adapters. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 197 DB-25 Serial Connection If your computer or terminal has a 25-pin serial port with a male connector, use the null-modem cable and 25-pin adapter included with the 34398A Cable Kit. The cable pin diagram is shown below. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 198: Connection To A Printer
To disable the DTR/DSR handshake, do not connect the DTR line and tie the DSR line to logic TRUE. If you disable the DTR/DSR handshake, also select a slower baud rate (300, 600, or 1200 baud) to ensure that the data is transmitted correctly. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 199: Rs-232 Troubleshooting
Make sure that your computer is set up for 1 start bit and 2 stop bits (these values are fixed on the meter). – Make sure to execute the SYSTEM:REMOTE command to place the meter in the REMOTE mode. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 200 The 34398A Cable Kit can be used to connect the meter to most computers or terminals. – Verify that you have connected the interface cable to the correct serial port on your computer (COM1, COM2, etc). Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 201: Rs-232 Interface Commands
LOCAL key. Sending or receiving data over the RS-232 interface when not configured for CAUTION REMOTE operation can cause unpredictable results. Always make sure the meter is configured for remote operation when using the RS-232 interface. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 202: An Introduction To The Scpi Language
If a command requires more than one parameter, you must separate adjacent parameters using a comma. Using Whitespace You must use whitespace characters, [tab], or [space] to separate a parameter from a command keyword. Whitespace characters are generally ignored only in parameter lists. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 203 They are required to perform the identical function for all instruments that are compliant with the IEEE-488.2 interface standard. The “ * ” commands are used to control reset, self-test, and status operations in the meter. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 204: Scpi Data Types
A string must begin and end with matching quotes; either with a single quote or with a double quote. You can include the quote delimiter as part of the string by typing it twice without any characters in between. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 205: Input Message Terminators
A <carriage return> followed by a <newline> is also accepted. Many programming languages allow you to specify a message terminator character or EOI state to be automatically sent with each bus transaction. Message termination will always set the current path back to the root-level. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 206: Output Data Formats
<80 ASCII character string Single reading (IEEE-488) SD.DDDDDDDDESDD<nl> Multiple readings (IEEE-488) SD.DDDDDDDDESDD,...,... <nl> Single reading (RS-232) SD.DDDDDDDDESDD<cr><nl> Multiple readings (RS-232) SD.DDDDDDDDESDD,...,...<cr><nl> S Negative sign or positive sign D Numeric digits E Exponent <nl> newline character <cr> carriage return character Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 207: Using Device Clear To Halt Measurements
IEEE-488 device clear message. The meter’s DTR (data terminal ready) handshake line will be true following a device clear message. See “DTR / DSR Handshake Protocol” on page 194 for further details. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 208: Talk Only For Printers
GPIB interface with a bus controller. If you select the RS-232 interface and then set the GPIB address to the talk only address (31), the meter will send readings over the RS-232 interface when in the local mode. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 209: To Set The Gpib Address
3 Move down a level to the GPIB ADDR command. 1: GPIB ADDR 4 Move down to the “parameter” level to set the address. Use the left/right and down/up arrow keys to change the address. 22 ADDR Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 210 Remote Interface Reference 5 Save the change and turn off the menu. Auto/Man ENTER The address is stored in non-volatile memory, and does not change when power has been off or after a remote interface reset. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 211: To Select The Remote Interface
4 Move down to the “parameter” level to select the interface. GPIB / 488 Use the left/right arrow keys to see the interface choices. Choose from the following: GPIB / 488 or RS-232. 5 Save the change and turn off the menu. Auto/Man ENTER Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 212 The interface selection is stored in non-volatile memory, and does not change when power has been off or after a remote interface reset. Remote Interface: you can set or query the interface using the following commands: SYStem :INTerface {GPIB | RS232} :INTerface? Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 213: To Set The Baud Rate
4 Move down to the “parameter” level to select the baud rate. Use the left/right arrow keys to see the baud rate choices. Choose from one of the following: 300, 600, 1200, 2400, 4800, or 9600 baud. 9600 BAUD Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 214 The baud rate selection is stored in non-volatile memory, and does not change when power has been off or after a remote interface reset. Remote Interface: you can set or query the baud rate using the following commands: SYStem:COMMunicate:SERial :BAUD <baud> :BAUD? Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 215: To Set The Parity
Use the left/right arrow keys to see the parity choices. Choose from one of the following: None (8 data bits), Even (7 data bits), or Odd (7 data bits). When you set parity, you are indirectly setting the number of data bits. EVEN: 7 BITS Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 216 The parity selection is stored in non-volatile memory, and does not change when power has been off or after a remote interface reset. Remote Interface: you can set or query the parity using the following commands: SYStem:COMMunicate:SERial :PARity {EVEN | ODD | NONE} :PARity? Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 217: To Select The Programming Language
3 Move down a level and then across to the LANGUAGE command. 5: LANGUAGE 4 Move down to the “parameter” level to select the language. Choose from one of the following: SCPI or KEITHLEY:181 SCPI 5 Save the change and turn off the menu. Auto/Man ENTER Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 218 The language selection is stored in non-volatile memory, and does not change when power has been off or after a remote interface reset. Remote Interface: you can set the programming language using the following commands: SYStem:LANGuage {SCPI | 181} (SCPI) (Keithley 181) Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 219: Alternate Programming Language Compatibility
– The digital filter, set to SLOW or MEDium, is used to emulate the Keithley input filter. – The meter is always set to 2 NPLC. – The 34420A has a maximum input range of 100 V. Be sure the test setup does not require a 1000 V range. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 220: Scpi Compliance Information
Remote Interface Reference SCPI Compliance Information The following commands are device-specific to the 34420A. They are not included in the 1994.0 version of the SCPI standard. However, these commands are designed with the SCPI format in mind and they follow all of the syntax rules of the standard.
Page 221 :NULL:VALue { <value> | MINimum | MAXimum } :NULL:VALue? :NPLCycles { <value> | MINimum | MAXimum } :NPLCycles? [ MINimum | MAXimum ] :TRANsducer:TYPE { DEFault | TCouple | THERmistor | FRTD} :TRANsducer:TYPE? :TRANsducer:TCouple:TYPE { DEFault | B|E|J|K|N|R|S|T } Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 222 :TRANsducer:FRTD:TYPE <type> :TRANsducer:FRTD:TYPE? [SENSe:] VOLTage[:DC] :NULL[:STATe] { OFF | ON | 0 | 1 } :NULL[:STATe]? :NULL:VALue { <value> | MINimum | MAXimum } :NULL:VALue? SYSTem :INTerface[:TYPE] { GPIB | RS232 } :INTerface[:TYPE]? :REMote :RWLock :LOCal Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 223: Ieee-488 Compliance Information
Local Lock Out Selected Device Clear Derial Poll disable Serial Poll Enable IEEE-488.2 Common Commands *CLS *RST *ESE <enable value> *SRE <enable value> *ESE? *SRE? *ESR? *STB? *IDN? *TRG *OPC *TST *OPC? *WAI *PSC {0 | 1} *PSC? Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 224 Remote Interface Reference THIS PAGE HAS BEEN INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 225 Keysight 34420A Nano Volt/Micro Ohm Meter User’s Guide Error Messages Error Messages Execution Errors Self-Test Errors Calibration Errors...
Page 226: Error Messages Error Messages
The error queue is cleared when power has been off or after a (clear status) *CLS command has been executed. – To read the error queue from the remote interface: SYSTem:ERRor? Errors have the following format (the error string may contain up to 80 characters): -113, "Undefined header" Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 227: Execution Errors
Example: READ? 10 -109 Missing parameter Fewer parameters were received than expected for the command. You omitted one or more parameters that are required for this command. Example: SAMP:COUN Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 228 A suffix for a numeric parameter contained too many characters. -138 Suffix not allowed A suffix was received following a numeric parameter which does not accept a suffix. Example: (SEC is not a valid SAMP:COUN 1 SEC suffix). Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 229 Init ignored command was received but could not be executed INITiate because a measurement was already in progress. Send a device clear to halt a measurement in progress and place the meter in the “idle” state. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 230 The reading retrieved may be invalid. -330 Sel f-test failed The meter’s complete self-test failed from the remote interface command). In addition to this error, more specific *TST? self-test errors are also reported. See also “Self-Test Errors” page 230. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 231 Command execution continues but all data is lost. -440 Query UNTERMINATED after indefinite response command must be the last query command within a *IDN? command string. Example: *IDN?;:SYST:VERS? Isolator UART framing error Isolator UART overrun error Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 232 Command not allowed in local The meter received a command while in the local mode for READ? RS-232 operation. You should always execute the command before sending other commands over SYSTem:REMote the interface. Command not allowed in current function Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 233 After being set to the low power resistance mode, the meter received a command that changed the settings to an mode or range not allowed. For example, after the low power mode has been enabled, a (2-wire Ohms) command is received. MEAS:RES Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 234: Self-Test Errors
A/D sync stuck A/D slope convergence failed Cannot calibrate rundown gain Rundown gain out of range Rundown too noisy Serial configuration read back failed DC gain x1 failed DC gain x10 failed DC gain x100 failed Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 235 Low Impedance DC gain X100 failed High Impedance DC gain X100 failed Cannot calibrate precharge Unable to sense line frequency I/O processor does not respond I/O processor failed sel f-test Hard ware overload comparator failed Bias current DAC test failed Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 236: Calibration Errors
Cal signal measurement out of range The specified calibration value ( ) does not match the CAL:VALue signal applied to the meter. No cal for this function or range Attempt to calibrate gain on 1 mV range. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 237 Cal checksum failed, DCV corrections Cal checksum failed, Low Power FRES corrections Cal checksum failed, RES corrections Cal checksum failed, FRES corrections Cal checksum failed, Low Voltage FRES corrections Cal checksum failed, GPIB address Cal checksum failed, internal data Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 238 Error Messages THIS PAGE HAS BEEN INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 239 Keysight 34420A Nano Volt/Micro Ohm Meter User’s Guide Application Programs Application Programs HP BASIC Language Programs RS-232 Operations with QuickBASIC Microsoft Visual Basic Language Program C Language Programs Microsoft Excel Macro Example...
Page 240: Application Programs
“HP BASIC Language Programs” on page 237 – “RS-232 Operations with QuickBASIC” on page 245 – “Microsoft Visual Basic Language Program” on page 247 – “C Language Programs” on page 254 – “Microsoft Excel Macro Example” on page 266 Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 241: Hp Basic Language Programs
ENTER @Meter;Value ! Enter value 120 ! 130 ! Select 4-wire ohms on the 10 ohm range with the least resolution; 140 ! OUTPUT @Meter;"MEAS:FRES? 10,MAX" ENTER @Meter;Rdg ! Enter reading PRINT Rdg ! Print reading Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 242: Hp Basic/Gpib Program Example 3
200 ! OUTPUT @Meter;"SENS1:VOLT:DC:NULL ON" ! Enable null on channel 1 OUTPUT @Meter;"SENS1:VOLT:DC:NULL:VAL ";Rdg_ch1 ! Store value in register 230 ! OUTPUT @Meter;"READ?" ! Take nulled reading; send to output buffer ENTER @Meter;Null_ch1 ! Enter nulled reading Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 243 ! Enable null on channel 2 OUTPUT @Meter;"SENS2:VOLT:DC:NULL:VAL ";Rdg_ch2 ! Store value in register 340 ! OUTPUT @Meter;"READ?" ! Take nulled reading; send to output buffer ENTER @Meter;Null_ch2 ! Enter nulled reading PRINT Null_ch2 ! Print nulled reading 380 ! Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 244: Hp Basic/Gpib Program Example 4
180 ! OUTPUT @Meter;"*SRE 32" ! Enable "Standard Event" bit in Status Byte ! to pull the IEEE-488 SRQ line OUTPUT @Meter;"*ESE 1" ! Enable "Operation Complete" to set ! "Standard Event" bit in Status Byte Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 245 OUTPUT @Meter;"TRIG:SOUR EXT" ! Select external trigger source OUTPUT @Meter;"INIT" ! Initiate measurement, wait for trigger, ! and send readings to internal memory OUTPUT @Meter;"*OPC" ! Set "Operation Complete" bit in ! Standard Event Register when complete Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 246 DIM Rdgs(1:5) ! Dimension array for readings COM @Meter ! Use same address as in main program OUTPUT @Meter;"FETC?" ! Transfer readings to output buffer ENTER @Meter;Rdgs(*) ! Enter readings PRINT Rdgs(*) ! Print readings STOP SUBEND Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 247 DISP "Getting "&VAL$(I)&" of "&VAL$(Num_points)&" measurements" OUTPUT Results$(I) USING "4D,A,8A,A,SD.12D";I,Separator$,TIME$(TIMEDATE),Separator$,FNGetdata(Address) 200 NEXT I 210 ON ERROR GOTO Save_file 220 CREATE Filename$,1 230 Save_file: ASSIGN @File TO Filename$ 240 OUTPUT @File;Results$(*) 250 ASSIGN @File TO * 260 DISP "Done" 270 END Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 248 460 OUTPUT Address;"CALC:FUNC AVER" !Take average of 470 OUTPUT Address;"CALC:STATE ON" !Num_samples 480 OUTPUT Address;"SAMPLE:COUNT "&VAL$(Num_samples) 490 OUTPUT Address;"TRIGGER:SOURCE IMM" 500 OUTPUT Address;"*ESE 1" !Enable register mask 510 OUTPUT Address;"*OPC" !for *OPC 520 OUTPUT Address;"INIT" 530 SUBEND 540 !************************************************************************ Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 249: Rs-232 Operations With Quickbasic
LINE INPUT #1, resp$ PRINT "SYST:VERS returned: ", resp$ ’ ’ Send a message to the meter’s display PRINT #1, "DISP:TEXT ’Keysight 34420A’ " ’ ’ Configure the meter for dc voltage measurements, 10 V range, ’ 0.1 V resolution, take 4 readings PRINT #1, "CONF:VOLT:DC 10, 0.1, ;:SAMP:COUN 4"...
Page 250 Application Programs ... continued LINE INPUT #1, resp$ PRINT "READ? returned: ", resp$ Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 251: Microsoft Visual Basic Language Program
82335B and GPIB control library. You must set up the GLOBAL.BAS to provide access to the GPIB.DLL. The GLOBAL.BAS file is included with the Keysight control libraries. In addition to the global declarations, the subroutine check_srq is also included in the GLOBAL.BAS file.
Page 252 = GpibOutputS(hGpib%, device&, null_stmt$, Len(null_stmt$)) Call check_srq null_stmt$ = "SENS1:VOLT:DC:NULL " + Str$(reading1!) errnum% = GpibOutputS(hGpib%, device&, null_stmt$, Len(null_stmt$)) Call check_srq errnum% = GpibOutputS(hGpib%, device&, reed$, Len(reed$)) errnum% = GpibEnter(hGpib%, device&, reading!) Text3.Text = Str$(reading!) Call check_srq Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 253 Trig_src$ = "EXT" range% = 10 nplc% = 100 Gain% = .001 Offset% = .5 samp_count% = 100 ReDim Readings!(samp_count%) Rem Clear out text boxes Text1.Text = "" Text2.Text = "" Text3.Text = "" Text4.Text = "" Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 254 = GpibOutputS(hGpib%, device&, cmd$, Len(cmd$)) Call check_srq cmd$ = "SAMP:COUN " + Str$(samp_count%) errnum% = GpibOutputS(hGpib%, device&, cmd$, Len(cmd$)) Call check_srq cmd$ = "TRIG:SOUR " + Trig_src$ errnum% = GpibOutputS(hGpib%, device&, cmd$, Len(cmd$)) Call check_srq Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 255 Call check_srq reed$ = "FETC?" errnum% = GpibOutputS(hGpib%, device&, reed$, Len(reed$)) errnum% = GpibEnterA(hGpib%, device&, Readings!(0), samp_count%) Text1.Text = Str$(Readings!(0)) Call check_srq Rem Close the instrument errnum% = GpibClose(hGpib%) End Sub Sub Command5_Click () form1.PrintForm End Sub Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 256 If errnum% <> NOERROR Then MsgBox ("Error = " + GpibErrStr$(errnum%)) End If If Status% = 1 Then errnum% = GpibSpoll(hGpib%, device&, Status%) If errnum% <> NOERROR Then MsgBox ("Error = " + GpibErrStr$(errnum%)) End If End If End Sub Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 257 Msg$ = " Card is not open " Case ECLOSE Msg$ = " Cannot close card " Case EHANDLE Msg$ = " Invalid handle for this ISC " Case Else Msg$ = " What? " End Select GpibErrStr$ = Msg$ End Function Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 258: C Language Programs
– If you are not compiling in the “large” or “huge” memory model, include the “CFUNC.H” header file in your program (the file is located on the GPIB Command Library disk that came with your GPIB Interface Card). Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 259 (see you C Language manual for more information). – Once compiled and linked, and executable file (.EXE) and object file (.OBJ) are created in the current directory. run the program by typing the file name with the .EXE extension. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 260: C/Gpib Example 1
/* Reset the meter, clear the error queue, and wait for commands to complete. A "1" is sent to the output buffer from the *OPC? command when *RST and *CLS are completed. */ float value; IOOUTPUTS(ADDR, "*RST;*CLS;*OPC?", 15); IOENTER(ADDR, &value); Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 261 /* Read the error queue */ IOENTERS(ADDR, message, &length); /* Enter error string */ while (atoi(message) != 0) /* Loop until all errors are read */ printf("Error %s in function %s\n\n", message, func_name); IOOUTPUTS(ADDR, "SYST:ERR?", 9); IOENTERS(ADDR, message, &length); Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 262: C/Gpib Example 2
/* Reset the meter, clear the error queue, and wait for commands to complete. A "1" is sent to the output buffer from the *OPC? command when *RST and *CLS are completed. */ float value; IOOUTPUTS(ADDR, "*RST;*CLS;*OPC?", 15); IOENTER(ADDR, &value); Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 263 /* Re-enable EOI and EOL for normal GPIB operation and send data */ IOEOI(ISC, 1);IOEOL(ISC, state, 2); IOOUTPUT(ADDR, rdg_ch1); /* Channel 2: Initiate measurement, transfer reading to output buffer, and store reading in variable */ IOOUTPUTS(ADDR, "ROUT:TERM FRON2", 15); IOOUTPUTS(ADDR, "READ?", 5); IOENTER(ADDR, &rdg_ch2); Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 264 /* Channel 2: Take nulled reading, transfer reading to output buffer, and print nulled reading */ IOOUTPUTS(ADDR, "ROUT:TERM FRON2", 15); IOOUTPUTS(ADDR, "READ?", 5); IOENTER(ADDR, &null_ch2); printf("Nulled Reading (Chan 2): %f\n", null_ch2); /* Call the function to check for errors */ check_error("meter_meas"); Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 265 /* Read the error queue */ IOENTERS(ADDR, message, &length); /* Enter error string */ while (atoi(message) != 0) /* Loop until all errors are read */ printf("Error %s in function %s\n\n", message, func_name); IOOUTPUTS(ADDR, "SYST:ERR?", 9); IOENTERS(ADDR, message, &length); /**************************************************************************/ Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 266: C/Gpib Program Example 3
*func_name); /**************************************************************************/ void main(void) /* Start of main() */ rst_clear(); /* Reset the instrument and clear error queue */ setup_status(); /* Set up 34420A status registers */ meter_meas(); /* Set up meter for measurement */ Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 267 IOOUTPUTS(ADDR, "*SRE 32", 7); /* Enable bit 0 in the Standard Event Register to interrupt the Status Byte (2^0 = 1) */ IOOUTPUTS(ADDR, "*ESE 1", 6); /* Call the function to check for errors */ check_error("setup_status"); Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 268 IOSTATUS(ISC, 1, &stat_cond); while (!stat_cond); /* Transfer readings from internal memory to the output buffer */ IOOUTPUTS(ADDR, "FETC?", 5); /* Enter readings and print */ IOENTERA(ADDR, readings, &numvalues); for (i = 0; i numvalues; i++) printf("%f \n", readings[i]); Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 269 /* Read the error queue */ IOENTERS(ADDR, message, &length); /* Enter error string */ while (atoi(message) != 0) /* Loop until all errors are read */ printf("Error %s in function %s\n\n", message, func_name); IOOUTPUTS(ADDR, "SYST:ERR?", 9); IOENTERS(ADDR, message, &length); /**************************************************************************/ Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 270: Microsoft Excel Macro Example
Microsoft® Excel spreadsheet. This example uses the Keysight “Instrument Tools for Windows” and the 82335B GPIB Interface. The “Instrument Tools for Windows” contains two programs to support GPIB operations, an Interactive GPIB program and a GPIB DDE Server.
Page 271: Macro Comments
– The macro uses the CALCulate:STATe OFF and CALCulate:STATE ON commands to reset the stats for each 15 minute interval. Without these commands in the while loop, the stats at each interval would be an accumulation of readings for all measurements. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 272 Application Programs Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 273 Application Programs Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 274 Application Programs THIS PAGE HAS BEEN INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 275 Keysight 34420A Nano Volt/Micro Ohm Meter User’s Guide Measurement Tutorial Measurement Tutorial Measurement Techniques and Sources of Error Cleaning the Connector Contacts Input Connector Obtaining Parts For the Input Connector...
Page 276: Measurement Tutorial
Measurement Tutorial Measurement Tutorial The 34420A is capable of making highly accurate voltage, resistance or temperature measurements. In order to achieve the greatest accuracy, you must take the necessary steps to eliminate potential measurement errors. This chapter is divided into two sections. The first section discusses the causes of measurement errors.
Page 277: Measurement Techniques And Sources Of Error
Ground Loops device-under-test, to the same common ground point. This will reduce or eliminate any voltage difference between the devices. Also make sure the meter and device-under-test are connected to the same electrical outlet whenever possible. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 278 A circuit may or may not be sensitive to injected current depending on the topology of circuit being measured by Injected Current the voltmeter, the impedance level of the circuit, and the common mode or normal mode rejection of the meter. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 279 RFI interference. RFI emissions from the meter meet international standards. If your application is extremely sensitive to RFI radiated from the meter, use a common mode choke in the input cable as shown. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 280 Noise Caused by Magnetic Fields If you are making measurements near magnetic fields, you should take the necessary precautions to avoid inducing voltages in the measurement connections. You should be especially careful when working near conductors carrying large currents. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 281 16.7 ms (20 ms) 60 dB 33.4 ms (40 ms) 90 dB 167 ms (200 ms) 95 dB 334 ms (400 ms) 100 dB 1.67 s (2 s) 105 dB 3.34 s (4 s) 110 dB Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 282 R small compared to R ground – If V is an ac voltage, keep R small compared to Z, and set the meter’s ground integration time (NPLC) to 1 or greater. See page Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 283 0, so does the error. Additionally, if V is at the power line frequency (50 Hz or 60 Hz), the noise can be greatly reduced by setting the meter’s integration time (NPLC) to 1 or greater. See page 277. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 284 Loading Errors Due to Input Resistance (dc volts) Measurement loading errors occur when the resistance of the device-under- test (DUT) is an appreciable percentage of the meter’s own input resistance. The diagram below shows this error source. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 285 You can adjust the input bias current to remove these errors. The bias current is automatically minimized during the zero calibration procedure (see Chapter 4 in the 34420A Service Guide). You should perform the zero calibration procedure if you are operating the meter at a temperature more than 5 °C from the calibration...
Page 286 LO terminal of the voltmeter, and no noise is added to the measurement. However with connection B, the injected current flows through the resistor R adding noise to the measurement. With connection B, larger values of R will make the problem worse. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 287: Resistance Measurements
1 Short the ends of the test leads together. The meter displays the test lead resistance. 2 Press from the front panel. The meter displays “0” ohms with the leads Null shorted together. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 288 The actual voltage drop across the resistor, and the calculated resistance are obtained by: First Reading - Second Reading = ( I * R + V ) - V = I * R Offset compensation can be used in 2-Wire or 4-Wire ohms measurements. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 289 1 mW 100 mA 10 mW 10 kW 100 mA 100 mW 10 mA 1 mW 100 kW 10 mA 10 mW 5 mA 2.5 mW 1 MW 5 mA 25 mW 5 mA 25 mW Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 290 Measurement Open Circuit Range Test Current Vol tage Vol tage (MV) (at Full Scale) 10 W 1 mA 10 mV 20, 100, or 500 mV 100 W 0.1 mA 10 mV 20, 100, or 500 mV Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 291 “dirty” surface films. Nylon and PVC are relatively poor insulators (10 ohms) when compared to PTFE insulators (10 W). Leakage from nylon or PVC insulators can easily contribute a 0.1% error when measuring a 1 MW resistance in humid conditions. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 292: Temperature Measurements
6 to 60 mV/°C Sensitivity Accuracy 0.01 to 0.1 °C 0.1 to 1 °C 0.5 to 5 °C Cost (approx) $20.00 to $100.00 ea $10.00 to $100.00 ea $1.00/foot Durability Fragile Fragile Rugged [a] Estimated cost in U.S. Dollars Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 293 Thermistors are, however, very non-linear, especially at high temperatures and function best below 100 °C. Because of their high resistance, thermistors can be measured using two wire measurement techniques. The meter supports 5000 W thermistors. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 294 T thermocouple can be calculated. One way to do this is to connect two type T thermocouples together to create only copper to copper connections at the meter’s input terminals, and to hold the second thermocouple at a known temperature. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 295 Since these two junctions will generate opposing voltages, their effect will be to cancel each other. However, if the input terminals are not at the same temperature, then an error will be created in the measurement. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 296 This empirical law states that a third metal (iron (Fe) in the example) inserted between two dissimilar metals will have no effect upon the output voltage provided the junctions formed are at the same temperature. Removing the reference thermocouple makes the connections much easier. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 297 Thermocouples come in a variety of types. The type is specified by a single letter. The following table shows the most commonly used thermocouple types and some key characteristics of each. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 298 Low temperature applications. Japanese White French Yellow Blue Nickel – Chromium Constantan U.S. Purple British Brown Blue Highest output voltage. -200 to 1000 °C ± 1 to 1.7 °C Black Highest resolution. Japanese White French Yellow Blue Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 299 -50 to 1760 °C ± 0.6 to 1.5 °C Beware of contamination. White Do not insert in metal tubes. Japanese White French Yellow Green Constantan = Copper–Nickel, Nicrosil = Nickel–Chromium–Silicon, Nisil = Nickel–Silicone–Magnesium, N/A = Not Available Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 300 If you use the internal thermistor, you should connect the thermocouple wire directly to the input connector (do not use the copper test leads or an isothermal block). See page 299. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 301: Cleaning The Connector Contacts
The recommended treatment uses DeoxIT™ and a small bottle of DeoxIT was included with the 34420A. Use the following procedure to apply DeoxIT to the connector terminals. 1 Remove the power cord from the meter.
Page 302 Measurement Tutorial The input connector may cause measurement problems if the coupling nut is not NOTE tightened properly, the connector keys are not aligned properly, or the clamping nut is not tightened properly. See the next page. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 303 Measurement Tutorial Input Connector Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 304 Measurement Tutorial Obtaining Parts For the Input Connector Use the following Keysight Technologies part numbers to obtain replacement input connectors and cables. Contact your nearest Keysight Technologies Sales Office for replacement. Part Number Description 34104A Low thermal input connector (blank)
Page 305 Keysight 34420A Nano Volt/Micro Ohm Meter User’s Guide Specifications For the specifications and characteristics of the 34420A Nano Volt/Micro Ohm Meter, refer to the datasheet at http://literature.cdn.keysight.com/litweb/pdf/ 5968-0161EN.pdf...
Page 306 Specifications THIS PAGE HAS BEEN INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK. Keysight 34420A User’s Guide...
Page 307 This information is subject to change without notice. Always refer to the Keysight website for the latest revision. © Keysight Technologies 1994 - 2017 Edition 3, September 1, 2017 Printed in Malaysia *34420-90001* 34420-90001 www.keysight.com...

Keysight 34420A User Manual

1 Quick Start

3 Features and Functions

4 Remote Interface Reference

5 Error Messages Error Messages

6 Application Programs

7 Measurement Tutorial

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