Agilent Technologies 34901A User Manual
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Agilent Technologies 34901A User Manual

Data acquisition/switch unit
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  • Page 1 (217) 352-9330 | Click HERE Find the Keysight / Agilent 34901A at our website:...
  • Page 2 A g i l e n t 3 4 9 7 0 A Data Acquisition/Switch Unit U s e r ’ s G u i d e Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com...
  • Page 3 Return the product to an and any information contained States and international copyright laws. Agilent Technologies Sales and Service herein, including but not limited to Office for service and repair to ensure the implied warranties of mer- Manual Part Number that safety features are maintained.
  • Page 4 Note: Unless otherwise indicated, this manual applies to all serial numbers. The Agilent Technologies 34970A combines precision measurement capability with flexible signal connections for your production and development test systems. Three module slots are built into the rear of the instrument to accept any combination of data acquisition or switching modules.
  • Page 5 The Front Panel at a Glance Denotes a menu key. See the next page for details on menu operation. State Storage / Remote Interface Menus 8 Advanced Measurement / Utility Menus 2 Scan Start / Stop Key 9 Low-Level Module Control Keys 3 Measurement Configuration Menu 10 Single-Channel Monitor On / Off Key 4 Scaling Configuration Menu...
  • Page 6 The Front-Panel Menus at a Glance Several of the front-panel keys guide you through menus to configure various parameters of the instrument (see previous page). The following steps demonstrate the menu structure using the key. 1 Press the menu key. You are automatically guided to the first level of the menu.
  • Page 7 Display Annunciators SCAN Scan is in progress or enabled. Press and hold again to turn off. Monitor mode is enabled. Press again to turn off. VIEW Scanned readings, alarms, errors, or relay cycles are being viewed. CONFIG Channel configuration is in progress on displayed channel. Measurement is in progress.
  • Page 8 The Rear Panel at a Glance Slot Identifier (100, 200, 300) 4 Power-Line Fuse-Holder Assembly 2 Ext Trig Input / Alarm Outputs / Channel 5 Power-Line Voltage Setting Advance Input / Channel Closed Output 6 Chassis Ground Screw (for pinouts, see pages 83 and 128) 7 GP-IB (IEEE-488) Interface Connector 3 RS-232 Interface Connector Use the...
  • Page 9 BenchLink Data Logger 3 Software at a Glance The Agilent BenchLink Data Logger 3 software provides a convenient way to collect and analyze your data. The software uses a familiar spreadsheet environment, streamlining your data gathering needs. Simply identify the measurements you want to acquire, initiate the process, and see the data displayed on the computer screen.
  • Page 10 The Plug-In Modules at a Glance For complete specifications on each plug-in module, refer to the module sections in chapter 9. 34901A 20-Channel Armature Multiplexer • 20 channels of 300 V switching • Two channels for DC or AC current measurements (100 nA to 1A) •...
  • Page 11 34903A 20-Channel Actuator / General-Purpose Switch • 300 V, 1 A actuation and switching • SPDT (Form C) latching relays • Breadboard area for custom circuits • For detailed information and a module diagram, see page 168. Use this module for those applications that require high-integrity contacts or quality connections of non-multiplexed signals.
  • Page 12 34907A Multifunction Module • Two 8-bit Digital Input/Output ports, 400 mA sink, 42 V open collector • 100 kHz Totalize input with 1 Vpp sensitivity • Two ± 12 V Calibrated Analog Outputs • For detailed information and module block diagrams, see page 174. Use this module to sense status and control external devices such as solenoids, power relays, and microwave switches.
  • Page 13 If you have questions relating to the operation of the 34970A, call 1-800-452-4844 in the United States, or contact your nearest Agilent Technologies Sales Office. If your 34970A fails within one year of original purchase, Agilent will replace it free of charge. Call 1-800-829-4444 and select "Option 3"...

  • Page 14: Table Of Contents

    Contents Chapter 1 Quick Start To Prepare the Instrument for Use 17 Installing BenchLink Data Logger 3 Software 18 To Connect Wiring to a Module 20 To Set the Time and Date 22 To Configure a Channel for Scanning 23 To Copy a Channel Configuration 25 To Close a Channel 26 If the Instrument Does Not Turn On 27...
  • Page 15 Calibration Overview 155 Factory Reset State 160 Instrument Preset State 161 Multiplexer Module Default Settings 162 Module Overview 163 34901A 20-Channel Multiplexer 164 34902A 16-Channel Multiplexer 166 34903A 20-Channel Actuator 168 34904A 4x8 Matrix Switch 170 34905A/6A Dual 4-Channel RF Multiplexers 172...
  • Page 16 Contents Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference SCPI Command Summary 181 Simplified Programming Overview 201 The MEASure? and CONFigure Commands 207 Setting the Function, Range, and Resolution 214 Temperature Configuration Commands 219 Voltage Configuration Commands 223 Resistance Configuration Commands 224 Current Configuration Commands 224 Frequency Configuration Commands 225 Scanning Overview 226 Single-Channel Monitoring Overview 237...
  • Page 17 Contents Chapter 7 Application Programs Example Programs for Excel 7.0 321 Example Programs for C and C++ 328 Chapter 8 Tutorial System Cabling and Connections 335 Measurement Fundamentals 343 Low-Level Signal Multiplexing 378 Actuators and General-Purpose Switching 384 Matrix Switching 388 RF Signal Multiplexing 390 Multifunction Module 392 Relay Life and Preventative Maintenance 399...

  • Page 18: Chapter 1 Quick Start

    Quick Start Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com...
  • Page 19 Quick Start One of the first things you will want to do with your instrument is to become acquainted with the front panel. We have written the exercises in this chapter to prepare the instrument for use and help you get familiar with some of its front-panel operations.

  • Page 20: To Prepare The Instrument For Use

    To Prepare the Instrument for Use 1 Check the list of supplied items. Verify that you have received the following items with your instrument. If anything is missing, contact your nearest Agilent Technologies Sales Office. One power cord. This User’s Guide.

  • Page 21: Installing Benchlink Data Logger 3 Software

    Chapter 1 Quick Start Installing BenchLink Data Logger 3 Software Installing BenchLink Data Logger 3 Software The Agilent BenchLink Data Logger 3 Software is contained on the 34825A product CD-ROM (p/n 34970-13610). The 34825A CD-ROM is included with every 34970A shipment. For system requirements and additional details on the features of the software, refer to the specifications in chapter 9.
  • Page 22 Chapter 1 Quick Start Installing BenchLink Data Logger 3 Software On-Line Help System The software is shipped with an extensive on-line Help system to help you learn the features of the software as well as troubleshoot any problems that might arise as you are using the software. As you are installing the software, you will notice that the on-line Help system is available in several languages.

  • Page 23: To Connect Wiring To A Module

    Chapter 1 Quick Start To Connect Wiring to a Module To Connect Wiring to a Module 1 Remove the module cover. Connect wiring to the screw terminals. 20 AWG Typical 6 mm 3 Route wiring through strain relief. Replace the module cover. Cable Tie Wrap (optional) 5 Install the module into mainframe.
  • Page 24 Channel n+10 (sense) on the 34901A or Channel n+8 (sense) on the 34902A. Valid only on channels 21 and 22 on the 34901A. Ranges: 100, 1 k, 10 k, 100 k, 1 M, 10 M, 100 MΩ Ranges: 10 mA, 100 mA, 1A RTD Types: 0.00385, 0.00391...

  • Page 25: To Set The Time And Date

    Chapter 1 Quick Start To Set the Time and Date To Set the Time and Date All readings during a scan are automatically time stamped and stored in non-volatile memory. In addition, alarm data is time stamped and stored in a separate non-volatile memory queue. 1 Set the time of day.

  • Page 26: To Configure A Channel For Scanning

    Note: You can use to skip to the beginning of the previous or next slot. For this example, assume that you have the 34901A multiplexer installed in slot 100 and select channel 103. 2 Select the measurement parameters for the selected channel.
  • Page 27 Chapter 1 Quick Start To Configure a Channel for Scanning Note: Press to sequentially step through the scan list and take a measurement on each channel (readings are not stored in memory). This is an easy way to verify your wiring connections before initiating the scan.

  • Page 28: To Copy A Channel Configuration

    Chapter 1 Quick Start To Copy a Channel Configuration To Copy a Channel Configuration After configuring a channel to be included in the scan list, you can copy that same configuration to other channels in the instrument (including digital channels on the multifunction module). This feature makes it easy to configure several channels for the same measurement.

  • Page 29: To Close A Channel

    The table below shows the low-level control operations available for each of the plug-in modules. Plug-In Module • • • • 34901A 20-Channel Mux • • • • 34902A 16-Channel Mux • • •...

  • Page 30: If The Instrument Does Not Turn On

    Chapter 1 Quick Start If the Instrument Does Not Turn On If the Instrument Does Not Turn On Use the following steps to help solve problems you might encounter when turning on the instrument. If you need more help, refer to the 34970A Service Guide for instructions on returning the instrument to Agilent for service.
  • Page 31 Chapter 1 Quick Start If the Instrument Does Not Turn On 1 Remove the power cord. Remove the Remove the line-voltage selector from fuse-holder assembly from the rear panel. the assembly. Fuse: 500 mAT (for all line voltages) Agilent Part Number: 2110-0458 Rotate the line-voltage selector until the Replace the fuse-holder assembly in correct voltage appears in the window.

  • Page 32: To Adjust The Carrying Handle

    Chapter 1 Quick Start To Adjust the Carrying Handle 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 Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ...

  • Page 33: To Rack Mount The Instrument

    Chapter 1 Quick Start To Rack Mount the Instrument To Rack Mount the Instrument You can mount the instrument in a standard 19-inch rack cabinet using one of three optional kits available. Instructions and mounting hardware are included with each rack-mounting kit. Any Agilent System II instrument of the same size can be rack-mounted beside the 34970A.
  • Page 34 Chapter 1 Quick Start To Rack Mount the Instrument To rack mount a single instrument, order adapter kit 5063-9240. To rack mount two instruments side-by-side, order lock-link kit 5061-9694 and flange kit 5063-9212. Be sure to use the support rails inside the rack cabinet. To install one or two instruments in a sliding support shelf, order shelf 5063-9255, and slide kit 1494-0015 (for a single instrument, also order filler panel 5002-3999).
  • Page 35 Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com...

  • Page 36: Chapter 2 Front-Panel Overview

    Front-Panel Overview Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com...
  • Page 37 Front-Panel Overview This chapter introduces you to the front-panel keys and menu operation. This chapter does not give a detailed description of every front-panel key or menu operation. It does, however, give you a good overview of the front-panel menu and many front-panel operations. See chapter 4 “Features and Functions,”...

  • Page 38: Front-Panel Menu Reference

    Chapter 2 Front-Panel Overview Front-Panel Menu Reference Front-Panel Menu Reference This section gives an overview of the front-panel menus. The menus are designed to automatically guide you through all parameters required to configure a particular function or operation. The remainder of this chapter shows examples of using the front-panel menus.
  • Page 39 Chapter 2 Front-Panel Overview Front-Panel Menu Reference Configure the advanced measurement features on displayed channel. • Set the integration time for measurements on the displayed channel. • Set the channel-to-channel delay for scanning. • Enable/disable the thermocouple check feature (T/C measurements only). •...

  • Page 40: To Monitor A Single Channel

    Chapter 2 Front-Panel Overview To Monitor a Single Channel To Monitor a Single Channel You can use the Monitor function to continuously take readings on a single channel, even during a scan. This feature is useful for troubleshooting your system before a test or for watching an important signal. 1 Select the channel to be monitored.

  • Page 41: To Set A Scan Interval

    Chapter 2 Front-Panel Overview To Set a Scan Interval To Set a Scan Interval You can set the instrument’s internal timer to automatically scan at a specific interval (e.g., start a new scan sweep every 10 seconds) or when an external TTL trigger pulse is received. You can configure the instrument to scan continuously or to stop after sweeping through the scan list a specified number of times.

  • Page 42: To Apply Mx+B Scaling To Measurements

    Chapter 2 Front-Panel Overview To Apply Mx+B Scaling to Measurements To Apply Mx+B Scaling to Measurements The scaling function allows you to apply a gain and offset to all readings on a specified multiplexer channel during a scan. In addition to setting the gain (“M”) and offset (“B”) values, you can also specify a custom measurement label for your scaled readings ( RPM , PSI , etc.).

  • Page 43: To Configure Alarm Limits

    Chapter 2 Front-Panel Overview To Configure Alarm Limits To Configure Alarm Limits The instrument has four alarms which you can configure to alert you when a reading exceeds specified limits on a channel during a scan. You can assign a high limit, a low limit, or both to any configured channel in the scan list.
  • Page 44 Chapter 2 Front-Panel Overview To Configure Alarm Limits 4 Set the limit value. The alarm limit values are stored in non-volatile memory for the specified channels. The default values for the high and low limits are “0”. The low limit must always be less than or equal to the high limit, even if you are using only one of the limits.

  • Page 45: To Read A Digital Input Port

    Chapter 2 Front-Panel Overview To Read a Digital Input Port To Read a Digital Input Port The multifunction module (34907A) has two non-isolated 8-bit input/output ports which you can use for reading digital patterns. You can read the live status of the bits on the port or you can configure a scan to include a digital read.

  • Page 46: To Write To A Digital Output Port

    Chapter 2 Front-Panel Overview To Write to a Digital Output Port To Write to a Digital Output Port The multifunction module (34907A) has two non-isolated 8-bit input/output ports which you can use for outputting digital patterns. 1 Select the Digital Output port. Select the slot containing the multifunction module and continue turning the knob until DIN is displayed (channel 01 or 02).

  • Page 47: To Read The Totalizer Count

    Chapter 2 Front-Panel Overview To Read the Totalizer Count To Read the Totalizer Count The multifunction module (34907A) has a 26-bit totalizer which can count pulses at a 100 kHz rate. You can manually read the totalizer count or you can configure a scan to read the count. 1 Select the totalizer channel.

  • Page 48: To Output A Dc Voltage

    Chapter 2 Front-Panel Overview To Output a DC Voltage To Output a DC Voltage The multifunction module (34907A) has two analog outputs capable of ± outputting calibrated voltages between 12 volts. 1 Select a DAC Output channel. Select the slot containing the multifunction module and continue turning the knob until DAC is displayed (channel 04 or 05).

  • Page 49: To Configure The Remote Interface

    Chapter 2 Front-Panel Overview To Configure the Remote Interface To Configure the Remote Interface The instrument is shipped with both an GPIB ( IEEE -488) interface and an RS -232 interface. Only one interface can be enabled at a time. The GPIB interface is selected when the instrument is shipped from the factory.
  • Page 50 Chapter 2 Front-Panel Overview To Configure the Remote Interface RS-232 Configuration 1 Select the RS-232 interface. RS-232 2 Select the baud rate. Interface Select one of the following: 1200, 2400, 4800, 9600, 19200, 38400, 57600 (factory setting), or 115200 baud. 19200 BAUD 3 Select the parity and number of data bits.

  • Page 51: To Store The Instrument State

    Chapter 2 Front-Panel Overview To Store the Instrument State To Store the Instrument State You can store the instrument state in one of five non-volatile storage locations. A sixth storage location automatically holds the power-down configuration of the instrument. When power is restored, the instrument can automatically return to its state before power-down (a scan in progress before power-down will also be resumed).

  • Page 52: Chapter 3 System Overview

    System Overview Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com...

  • Page 53: Data Acquisition System Overview

    System Overview This chapter provides an overview of a computer-based system and describes the parts of a data acquisition system. This chapter is divided into the following sections: • Data Acquisition System Overview, see below • Signal Routing and Switching, starting on page 57 •...
  • Page 54 Chapter 3 System Overview Data Acquisition System Overview The system configuration shown on the previous page offers the following advantages: • You can use the 34970A to perform data storage, data reduction, mathematical calculations, and conversion to engineering units. You can use the PC to provide easy configuration and data presentation. •...
  • Page 55 Chapter 3 System Overview Data Acquisition System Overview Measurement Software A variety of software is available to configure your data acquisition hardware and manipulate and display your measurement data. Data Logging and Monitoring Agilent BenchLink Data Logger 3 is a Windows -based application ®...
  • Page 56 Chapter 3 System Overview Data Acquisition System Overview The 34970A Data Acquisition / Switch Unit As shown below, the logic circuitry for the 34970A is divided into two sections: earth-referenced and floating. These two sections are isolated from each other in order to maintain measurement accuracy and repeatability (for more information on ground loops, see page 341).
  • Page 57 Common Uses Measurement Input 34901A 20-Channel Mux with T/C Scanning and direct measurement of Compensation temperature, voltage, resistance, frequency, and current (34901A only) using the 34902A 16-Channel Reed Mux with T/C internal DMM. Compensation 34908A 40-Channel Single-Ended Mux Scanning and direct measurement of...
  • Page 58 Chapter 3 System Overview Data Acquisition System Overview System Cabling The plug-in modules have screw-terminal connectors to make it easy to connect your system cabling. The type of cabling that you use to connect your signals, transducers, and sensors to the module is critical to measurement success.
  • Page 59 Chapter 3 System Overview Data Acquisition System Overview Transducers and Sensors Transducers and sensors convert a physical quantity into an electrical quantity. The electrical quantity is measured and the result is then converted to engineering units. For example, when measuring a thermocouple, the instrument measures a dc voltage and mathematically °...

  • Page 60: Signal Routing And Switching

    Several switching plug-in modules are available with different topologies for various applications. The following switching topologies are available: • Multiplexer (34901A, 34902A, 34905A, 34906A, 34908A) • Matrix (34904A) • Form C – Single Pole, Double Throw (34903A) The following sections describe each of these switching topologies.
  • Page 61 Chapter 3 System Overview Signal Routing and Switching Multiplexer Switching Multiplexers allow you to connect one of multiple channels to a common channel, one at a time. A simple 4-to-1 multiplexer is shown below. When you combine a multiplexer with a measurement device, like the internal DMM , you create a scanner.
  • Page 62 Chapter 3 System Overview Signal Routing and Switching Matrix Switching A matrix switch connects multiple inputs to multiple outputs and therefore offers more switching flexibility than a multiplexer. Use a matrix for switching low-frequency (less than 10 MHz) signals only. A matrix is arranged in rows and columns. For example, a simple 3x3 matrix could be used to connect three sources to three test points as shown below.

  • Page 63: Measurement Input

    Chapter 3 System Overview Measurement Input Measurement Input The 34970A allows you to combine a DMM (either internal or external) with multiplexer channels to create a scan. During a scan, the instrument connects the DMM to the configured multiplexer channels one at a time and makes a measurement on each channel.
  • Page 64 Chapter 3 System Overview Measurement Input Signal Conditioning, Ranging, and Amplification Analog input signals are multiplexed into the internal DMM ’s signal-conditioning section – typically comprising switching, ranging, and amplification circuitry. If the input signal is a dc voltage, the signal conditioner is composed of an attenuator for the higher input voltages and a dc amplifier for the lower input voltages.
  • Page 65 Chapter 3 System Overview Measurement Input Main Processor The main processor, located in the floating logic section, controls the input signal conditioning, ranging, and the ADC . The main processor accepts commands from, and sends measurement results to, the earth-referenced logic section. The main processor synchronizes measurements during scanning and control operations.
  • Page 66 Chapter 3 System Overview Measurement Input You can configure the event or action that controls the onset of each sweep through the scan list (a sweep is one pass through the scan list): • You can set the instrument’s internal timer to automatically scan at a specific interval as shown below.
  • Page 67 Chapter 3 System Overview Measurement Input Scanning With External Instruments If your application doesn’t require the built-in measurement capabilities of the 34970A, you can order it without the internal DMM . In this configuration, you can use the 34970A for signal routing or control applications.
  • Page 68 Chapter 3 System Overview Measurement Input The Multifunction Module The multifunction module (34907A) adds two additional measurement input capabilities to the system: digital input and event totalize. The multifunction module also contains a dual voltage output (DAC) which is described in more detail on page 68. Digital Input The multifunction module has two non-isolated 8-bit input/output ports which you can use for reading digital patterns.
  • Page 69 Chapter 3 System Overview Measurement Input Totalizer The multifunction module has a 26-bit totalizer which can count pulses at a 100 kHz rate. You can manually read the totalizer count or you can configure a scan to read the count. 26 Bits Channel 03 Totalize...

  • Page 70: Control Output

    Chapter 3 System Overview Control Output Control Output In addition to signal routing and measurement, you can also use the 34970A to provide simple control outputs. For example, you can control external high-power relays using the actuator module or a digital output channel.
  • Page 71 Chapter 3 System Overview Control Output Voltage (DAC) Output The multifunction module has two analog ± outputs capable of outputting calibrated voltages between 12 volts with 16 bits of resolution. Each DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter) channel can be used as a programmable voltage source for analog input control of other devices.
  • Page 72 Chapter 3 System Overview Control Output The Actuator / General-Purpose Switch You can think of the 34903A Actuator as a control output because it is often used to control external power devices. The actuator provides 20 independent, isolated Form C ( SPDT ) switches. Channel Open Channel Closed (NC Contact Connected)
  • Page 73 Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com...
  • Page 74 Features and Functions Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com...
  • Page 75 Instrument Preset State, on page 161 ã Multiplexer Module Default Settings, on page 162 ã Module Overview, on page 163 ã 34901A 20-Channel Multiplexer, starting on page 164 ã 34902A 16-Channel Multiplexer, starting on page 166 ã 34903A 20-Channel Actuator, starting on page 168 ã...

  • Page 76: Scpi Language Conventions

    Chapter 4 Features and Functions SCPI Language Conventions SCPI Language Conventions Throughout this manual, the following conventions are used for SCPI command syntax for remote interface programming: • Square brackets ( [ ] ) indicate optional keywords or parameters. • Braces ( { } ) enclose parameter choices within a command string. •...

  • Page 77: Scanning

    A scan can also include a read of a digital port or a read of the totalizer count on the multifunction module. Scanning is allowed with the following modules: • 34901A 20-Channel Multiplexer • 34902A 16-Channel Multiplexer • 34907A Multifunction Module (digital input and totalizer only) •...
  • Page 78 Chapter 4 Features and Functions Scanning • Each time you start a new scan, the instrument clears all readings (including alarm data) stored in reading memory from the previous scan. Therefore, the contents of memory are always from the most recent scan.
  • Page 79 Chapter 4 Features and Functions Scanning • When you add a digital read (multifunction module) to a scan list, that port is dedicated to the scan. The instrument issues a Card Reset to make that port an input port (the other port is not affected). •...
  • Page 80 Chapter 4 Features and Functions Scanning Power Failure • When shipped from the factory, the instrument is configured to automatically recall the power-down state when power is restored. In this configuration, the instrument will automatically recall the instrument state at power-down and resume a scan in progress. If you do not want the power-down state to be recalled when power is restored, send the MEMory:STATe:RECall:AUTO OFF command (also see the Utility menu);...
  • Page 81 Chapter 4 Features and Functions Scanning Adding Channels to a Scan List Before you can initiate a scan, you must configure the channels to be scanned and set up a scan list (these two operations occur simultaneously from the front panel). The instrument automatically scans the configured channels in ascending order from slot 100 through slot 300.
  • Page 82 Chapter 4 Features and Functions Scanning To Build a Scan List From the Remote Interface: • The MEASure?, CONFigure, and ROUTe:SCAN commands contain a scan_list parameter which defines the list of channels in the scan list. Note that each time you send one of these commands, it redefines the scan list.
  • Page 83 Chapter 4 Features and Functions Scanning Scan Interval You can configure the event or action that controls the onset of each sweep through the scan list (a sweep is one pass through the scan list): • You can set the instrument’s internal timer to automatically scan at a specific interval.
  • Page 84 Chapter 4 Features and Functions Scanning • You can set the scan interval to any value between 0 seconds and 99:59:59 hours (359,999 seconds), with 1 ms resolution. • Once you have initiated the scan, the instrument will continue scanning until you stop it or until the scan count is reached. See “Scan Count”...
  • Page 85 Chapter 4 Features and Functions Scanning Scan Once In this configuration, the instrument waits for either a front-panel key press or a remote interface command before sweeping through the scan list. • All readings from the scan are stored in non-volatile memory. Readings accumulate in memory until the scan is terminated (until the scan count is reached or until you abort the scan).
  • Page 86 Chapter 4 Features and Functions Scanning External Scanning In this configuration, the instrument sweeps through the scan list once each time a low-going TTL pulse is received on the rear-panel Ext Trig Input line (pin 6). Input Ext Trig Input >...
  • Page 87 Chapter 4 Features and Functions Scanning Scanning on Alarm In this configuration, the instrument sweeps the scan list once each time a reading crossing an alarm limit on a channel. You can also assign alarms to channels on the multifunction module. For example, you can generate an alarm when a specific bit pattern is detected or when a specific count is reached.
  • Page 88 Chapter 4 Features and Functions Scanning • Remote Interface Operation: The following program segment configures the instrument to scan when an alarm occurs. Select the alarm configuration TRIG:SOURCE ALARM1 Sweep the scan list 2 times TRIG:COUNT 2 Set the upper limit CALC:LIM:UPPER 5,( 103) 103) Enable the upper limit...
  • Page 89 Chapter 4 Features and Functions Scanning Scan Count You can specify the number of times the instrument will sweep through the scan list. When the specified number of sweeps have occurred, the scan stops. • Select a scan count between 1 to 50,000 scan sweeps, or continuous. •...
  • Page 90 Chapter 4 Features and Functions Scanning Reading Format During a scan, the instrument automatically adds a time stamp to all readings and stores them in non-volatile memory. Each reading is stored with measurement units, time stamp, channel number, and alarm status information. From the remote interface, you can specify which information you want returned with the readings (from the front panel, all of the information is available for viewing).
  • Page 91 Chapter 4 Features and Functions Scanning Channel Delay You can control the pace of a scan sweep by inserting a delay between multiplexer channels in the scan list (useful for high-impedance or high-capacitance circuits). The delay is inserted between the relay closure and the actual measurement on the channel.
  • Page 92 Chapter 4 Features and Functions Scanning Automatic Channel Delays If you do not specify a channel delay, the instrument selects a delay for you. The delay is determined by function, range, integration time, and ac filter setting as shown below. DC Voltage, Thermocouple, DC Current (for all ranges): Integration Time Channel Delay...
  • Page 93 Chapter 4 Features and Functions Scanning • Front-Panel Operation: CH DELAY AUTO • Remote Interface Operation: The following command enables an automatic channel delay on channel 01. ROUT:CHAN:DELAY:AUTO ON,( 101) Selecting a specific channel delay using the ROUTe:CHANnel:DELay command disables the automatic channel delay. Viewing Readings Stored in Memory During a scan, the instrument automatically adds a time stamp to all readings and stores them in non-volatile memory.
  • Page 94 Chapter 4 Features and Functions Scanning • Readings acquired during a Monitor are not stored in memory (however, all readings from a scan in progress at the same time are stored in memory). • The MEASure? and READ? commands send readings directly to the instrument’s output buffer but readings are not stored in memory.
  • Page 95 Chapter 4 Features and Functions Scanning • Remote Interface Operation: The following command retrieves stored readings from memory (the readings are not erased). FETCH? Use the following commands to query the statistics on the readings stored in memory for a specific channel. These commands do not remove the data from memory.

  • Page 96: Single-Channel Monitoring

    Chapter 4 Features and Functions Single-Channel Monitoring Single-Channel Monitoring In the Monitor function, the instrument takes readings as often as it can on a single channel, even during a scan. This feature is useful for trouble- shooting your system before a test or for watching an important signal.
  • Page 97 Chapter 4 Features and Functions Single-Channel Monitoring • In the Alarm Scan configuration (see “Scanning on Alarm” on page 84), the instrument sweeps the scan list once each time a reading crosses an alarm limit on a channel. In this configuration, you may use the Monitor function to continuously take readings on a selected channel and wait for an alarm on that channel.

  • Page 98: Scanning With External Instruments

    Chapter 4 Features and Functions Scanning With External Instruments Scanning With External Instruments If your application doesn’t require the built-in measurement capabilities of the 34970A, you can order it without the internal DMM . In this configuration, you can use the system for signal routing or control applications.
  • Page 99 Chapter 4 Features and Functions Scanning With External Instruments In this configuration, you must set up a scan list to include all desired multiplexer or digital channels. Channels which are not in the list are skipped during the scan. The instrument automatically scans the list of channels in ascending order from slot 100 through slot 300.
  • Page 100 • You can configure the list of channels for 4-wire external scanning without the internal DMM . When enabled, the instrument automatically pairs channel n with channel n+10 (34901A) or n+8 (34902A) to provide the source and sense connections. • Front-Panel Operation: To select the channel advance source, choose from the following items.

  • Page 101: General Measurement Configuration

    Chapter 4 Features and Functions General Measurement Configuration General Measurement Configuration This section contains general information to help you configure the instrument for making measurements during a scan. Since these parameters are used by several measurement functions, the discussion is combined into one common section. Refer to the later sections in this chapter for more information on parameters that are specific to a particular measurement function.
  • Page 102 Chapter 4 Features and Functions General Measurement Configuration • For frequency and period measurements, the "range" parameter is used to compute a specific measurement resolution (see the table on page 203). When specifying a (non-default) resolution, both the range and resolution parameters must be specified within the MEASure? and CONFigure commands.
  • Page 103 Chapter 4 Features and Functions General Measurement Configuration Measurement Resolution Resolution is expressed in terms of number of digits the instrument can measure or display on the front panel. You can set the resolution to ⁄ 4, 5, or 6 full digits, plus a “ ”...
  • Page 104 Chapter 4 Features and Functions General Measurement Configuration • The specified resolution is used for all measurements on the selected channel. If you have applied Mx+B scaling or have assigned alarms to the selected channel, those measurements are also made using the specified resolution.
  • Page 105 Chapter 4 Features and Functions General Measurement Configuration • Remote Interface Operation: Specify the resolution in the same units as the measurement function, not in number of digits. For example, if the function is dc volts, specify the resolution in volts. For frequency, specify the resolution in hertz.
  • Page 106 Chapter 4 Features and Functions General Measurement Configuration Custom A/D Integration Time Integration time is the period of time that the instrument’s analog-to- digital ( A/D ) converter samples the input signal for a measurement. Integration time affects the measurement resolution (for better resolution, use a longer integration time) and measurement speed (for faster measurements, use a shorter integration time).
  • Page 107 Chapter 4 Features and Functions General Measurement Configuration • The instrument selects 1 PLC when the measurement function is changed and after a Factory Reset (*RST command). An Instrument Preset (SYSTem:PRESet command) or Card Reset (SYSTem:CPON command) does not change the integration time setting. •...
  • Page 108 Chapter 4 Features and Functions General Measurement Configuration Autozero When autozero is enabled (default), the instrument internally disconnects the input signal following each measurement, and takes a zero reading. It then subtracts the zero reading from the preceding reading. This prevents offset voltages present on the instrument’s input circuitry from affecting measurement accuracy.

  • Page 109: Temperature Measurement Configuration

    Chapter 4 Features and Functions Temperature Measurement Configuration Temperature Measurement Configuration This section contains information to help you configure the instrument for making temperature measurements. For more information on the types of temperature transducers, see “Temperature Measurements” starting on page 345 in chapter 8. The instrument supports direct measurement of thermocouples, RTD s, and thermistors.
  • Page 110 Chapter 4 Features and Functions Temperature Measurement Configuration Thermocouple Measurements To connect a thermocouple to the module’s screw terminals, see page 21. • The instrument supports the following thermocouple types: B, E, J, K, N, R, S, and T using ITS -90 software conversions. The default is a J-Type thermocouple.
  • Page 111 Chapter 4 Features and Functions Temperature Measurement Configuration • Front-Panel Operation: To select the thermocouple function on the active channel, choose the following items. TEMPERATURE , THERMOCOUPLE To select the thermocouple type for the active channel, choose the following item. J TYPE T/C To enable the thermocouple check feature on the active channel (opens are reported as “OPEN T/C”), choose the following item.
  • Page 112 Chapter 4 Features and Functions Temperature Measurement Configuration • Remote Interface Operation: You can use the MEASure? or CONFigure command to select the probe type and thermocouple type. For example, the following statement configures channel 301 for a J-type thermocouple measurement. CONF:TEMP TC,J,( 301) You can also use the SENSe command to select the probe type and...
  • Page 113 4-wire method. • For 4-wire RTD measurements, the instrument automatically pairs channel n with channel n+10 (34901A) or n+8 (34902A) to provide the source and sense connections. For example, make the source connections to the HI and LO terminals on channel 2 and the sense connections to the HI and LO terminals on channel 12.
  • Page 114 Chapter 4 Features and Functions Temperature Measurement Configuration • Remote Interface Operation: You can use the MEASure? or CONFigure command to select the probe type and RTD type. For example, the following statement configures channel 301 for α 2-wire measurements of an RTD with = 0.00385 (use “85”...
  • Page 115 Chapter 4 Features and Functions Temperature Measurement Configuration Thermistor Measurements To connect a thermistor to the module’s screw terminals, see page 21. • The instrument supports 2.2 k Ω Ω Ω (44004), 5 k (44007), and 10 k (44006) thermistors. •...

  • Page 116: Voltage Measurement Configuration

    Chapter 4 Features and Functions Voltage Measurement Configuration Voltage Measurement Configuration To connect voltage sources to the module’s screw terminals, see page 21. This section contains information to help you configure the instrument for making voltage measurements. The instrument can measure dc and true RMS ac-coupled voltages on the measurement ranges shown below.
  • Page 117 Chapter 4 Features and Functions Voltage Measurement Configuration • Remote Interface Operation: You can enable or disable the automatic input resistance mode on the specified channels. With AUTO OFF Ω (default), the input resistance is fixed at 10 M for all ranges. Ω...

  • Page 118: Resistance Measurement Configuration

    Chapter 4 Features and Functions Resistance Measurement Configuration Resistance Measurement Configuration To connect resistances to the module’s screw terminals, see page 21. This section contains information to help you configure the instrument for making resistance measurements. Use the 2-wire method for ease of wiring and higher density or the 4-wire method for improved measurement accuracy.

  • Page 119: Current Measurement Configuration

    To connect a current source to the module’s screw terminals, see page 21. This section contains information to help you configure the instrument for making current measurements on the 34901A multiplexer module. This module has two fused channels for direct dc and ac current measurements on the measurement ranges shown below.
  • Page 120 Chapter 4 Features and Functions Current Measurement Configuration • Front-Panel Operation: First, select the ac current (or ac voltage) function on the active channel. Then, go to the Advanced menu and select the slow filter (3 Hz), medium filter ( 20 Hz ), or fast filter (200 Hz) for the active channel.

  • Page 121: Frequency Measurement Configuration

    Chapter 4 Features and Functions Frequency Measurement Configuration Frequency Measurement Configuration To connect an ac source to the module’s screw terminals, see page 21. Low Frequency Timeout The instrument uses three different timeout ranges for frequency measurements. The instrument selects a slow, medium, or fast timeout based on the input frequency that you specify for the selected channels.

  • Page 122: Mx+B Scaling

    Chapter 4 Features and Functions Mx+B Scaling Mx+B Scaling The scaling function allows you to apply a gain and offset to all readings on a specified multiplexer channel during a scan. In addition to setting the gain (“M”) and offset (“B”) values, you can also specify a custom measurement label for your scaled readings ( RPM , PSI , etc.).
  • Page 123 Chapter 4 Features and Functions Mx+B Scaling • During a Monitor operation, the gain and offset values are applied to all readings on the specified channel. • You can specify a custom label with up to three characters. You can use letters (A-Z), numbers (0-9), an underscore ( _ ), or the “#”...
  • Page 124 Chapter 4 Features and Functions Mx+B Scaling • Front-Panel Operation: The menu automatically guides you through the gain, offset, and measurement label settings. SET GAIN , SET OFFSET , SET LABEL To reset the gain, offset, and measurement label to their defaults, go to the corresponding level in the menu and turn the knob.

  • Page 125: Alarm Limits

    Chapter 4 Features and Functions Alarm Limits Alarm Limits The instrument has four alarms which you can configure to alert you when a reading exceeds specified limits on a channel during a scan. You can assign a high limit, a low limit, or both to any configured channel in the scan list.
  • Page 126 Chapter 4 Features and Functions Alarm Limits • You can assign an alarm to any configured channel and multiple channels can be assigned to the same alarm number. However, you cannot assign alarms on a specific channel to more than one alarm number.
  • Page 127 Chapter 4 Features and Functions Alarm Limits • Alarms are logged in the alarm queue only when a reading crosses a limit, not while it remains outside the limit and not when it returns to within limits. Alarm Event No Alarm Upper Limit Lower Limit •...
  • Page 128 Chapter 4 Features and Functions Alarm Limits • For details on configuring alarms on the multifunction module, see “Using Alarms With the Multifunction Module” on page 130. • A Factory Reset (*RST command) clears all alarm limits and turns off all alarms.
  • Page 129 Chapter 4 Features and Functions Alarm Limits Viewing Stored Alarm Data If an alarm occurs on a channel as it is being scanned, then that channel’s alarm status is stored in reading memory as the readings are taken. As alarm events are generated, they are also logged in an alarm queue, which is separate from reading memory.
  • Page 130 Chapter 4 Features and Functions Alarm Limits • Remote Interface Operation: The following command reads data from the alarm queue (one alarm event is read and cleared each time this command is executed). SYSTEM:ALARM? The following is an example of an alarm stored in the alarm queue (if no alarm data is in the queue, the command returns “0”...
  • Page 131 Chapter 4 Features and Functions Alarm Limits Using the Alarm Output Lines Four TTL alarm outputs are available on the rear-panel Alarms connector. You can use these hardware outputs to trigger external alarm lights, sirens, or send a TTL pulse to your control system. You can assign an alarm to any configured channel and multiple channels can be assigned to the same alarm number.
  • Page 132 Chapter 4 Features and Functions Alarm Limits • You can control the slope of the pulse from the alarm outputs (the selected configuration is used for all four outputs). In the falling edge mode, 0V ( TTL low) indicates an alarm. In the rising edge mode, +5V ( TTL high ) indicates an alarm.
  • Page 133 Chapter 4 Features and Functions Alarm Limits Using Alarms With the Multifunction Module You can configure the instrument to generate an alarm when a specific bit pattern or bit pattern change is detected on a digital input channel or when a specific count is reached on a totalizer channel. These channels do not have to be part of the scan list to generate an alarm.
  • Page 134 Chapter 4 Features and Functions Alarm Limits • Remote Interface Operation (Digital Input Channel): To assign the alarm number to report any alarm conditions on the specified digital input channels, use the following command. ch_list OUTPut:ALARm[1|2|3|4]:SOURce ( < >) To configure alarms on the specified digital input channel, use the following commands (also see the example on the following page).
  • Page 135 Chapter 4 Features and Functions Alarm Limits Example: Configuring an Alarm on a Digital Input Assume that you want to generate an alarm when a binary pattern of “1000” is read on the upper four bits of port 1. Send the following commands to configure the port for an alarm.

  • Page 136: Digital Input Operations

    Chapter 4 Features and Functions Digital Input Operations Digital Input Operations The multifunction module (34907A) has two non-isolated 8-bit input/output ports which you can use for reading digital patterns. You can read the live status of the bits on the port or you can configure a scan to include a digital read.
  • Page 137 Chapter 4 Features and Functions Digital Input Operations • Front-Panel Operation: After selecting the port, press to read the bit pattern (the least significant bit is on the right). The bit pattern read from the port will be displayed until you press another key, turn the knob, or until the display times out.

  • Page 138: Totalizer Operations

    Chapter 4 Features and Functions Totalizer Operations Totalizer Operations The multifunction module has a 26-bit totalizer which can count TTL pulses at a 100 kHz rate. You can manually read the totalizer count or you can configure a scan to read the count. •...
  • Page 139 Chapter 4 Features and Functions Totalizer Operations The maximum count is 67,108,863 (2 -1). The count rolls over to “0” after reaching the maximum allowed value. • You can configure the totalizer to reset its count after it is read without losing any counts (TOTalize:TYPE RRESet command).
  • Page 140 Chapter 4 Features and Functions Totalizer Operations • Remote Interface Operation: To read the count from the specified totalizer channel, send the following command. The count may be returned with time stamp, channel number, and alarm status information depending on the FORMat:READing command setting (see “Reading Format”...

  • Page 141: Digital Output Operations

    Chapter 4 Features and Functions Digital Output Operations Digital Output Operations The multifunction module (34907A) has two non-isolated 8-bit input/output ports which you can use for outputting digital patterns. • The digital output channels are numbered “s01” (lower byte) and “s02” (upper byte), where s represents the slot number. •...

  • Page 142: Dac Output Operations

    Chapter 4 Features and Functions DAC Output Operations DAC Output Operations The multifunction module (34907A) has two low-noise analog outputs ± capable of outputting calibrated voltages between 12 volts with 16 bits of resolution. Each DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter) channel can be used as a programmable voltage source for analog input control of other devices.

  • Page 143: System-Related Operations

    Chapter 4 Features and Functions System-Related Operations System-Related Operations This section gives information on system-related topics such as storing instrument states, reading errors, running a self-test, displaying messages on the front panel, setting the system clock, disabling the internal DMM , reading the firmware revisions, and reading the relay cycle count.
  • Page 144 Chapter 4 Features and Functions System-Related Operations • The name can contain up to 12 characters. The first character must be a letter (A-Z), but the remaining 11 characters can be letters, numbers (0-9), or the underscore character (“ _ ”). Blank spaces are not allowed.
  • Page 145 Chapter 4 Features and Functions System-Related Operations Error Conditions When the front-panel ERROR annunciator turns on, one or more command syntax or hardware errors have been detected. A record of up to 10 errors is stored in the instrument’s error queue. See chapter 6 for a complete listing of the errors.
  • Page 146 Chapter 4 Features and Functions System-Related Operations Self-Test A power-on self-test occurs automatically when you turn on the instrument. This limited test assures you that the instrument and all installed plug-in modules are operational. This self-test does not perform the extensive set of tests that are included as part of the complete self-test described below.
  • Page 147 Chapter 4 Features and Functions System-Related Operations Display Control For security reasons or for a slight increase in scanning rates, you may want to turn off the front-panel display. From the remote interface, you can also display a 13-character message on the front-display. •...
  • Page 148 Chapter 4 Features and Functions System-Related Operations Real-Time System Clock During a scan, the instrument stores all readings and alarms with the current time and date. The instrument stores the time and date information in non-volatile memory. • When shipped from the factory, the instrument is set to the current time and date (U.S.
  • Page 149 (be sure to dimension a string variable with at least 30 characters). SYSTem:CTYPe? {100|200|300} This command returns a string in the form: HEWLETT-PACKARD,34901A,0,X.X Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com...
  • Page 150 Chapter 4 Features and Functions System-Related Operations Relay Cycle Count The instrument has a Relay Maintenance System to help you predict relay end-of-life. The instrument counts the cycles on each relay in the instrument and stores the total count in non-volatile memory on each switch module.
  • Page 151 Chapter 4 Features and Functions System-Related Operations • Front-Panel Operation: To read the count on the active channel, choose the following item and then turn the knob. To read the count on the internal DMM relays, turn the knob counterclockwise beyond the lowest numbered channel in the instrument.
  • Page 152 Chapter 4 Features and Functions System-Related Operations SCPI Language Version Query The instrument complies with the rules and conventions of the present version of SCPI (Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments). You can determine the SCPI version with which the instrument is in compliance by sending a command from the remote interface.

  • Page 153: Remote Interface Configuration

    Chapter 4 Features and Functions Remote Interface Configuration Remote Interface Configuration This section gives information on configuring the instrument for remote interface communication. For more information on configuring the instrument from the front panel, see “To Configure the Remote Interface” starting on page 46.
  • Page 154 Chapter 4 Features and Functions Remote Interface Configuration Remote Interface Selection The instrument is shipped with both an GPIB ( IEEE -488) interface and an RS -232 interface. Only one interface can be enabled at a time. The GPIB interface is selected when the instrument is shipped from the factory.
  • Page 155 Chapter 4 Features and Functions Remote Interface Configuration Baud Rate Selection (RS-232) You can select one of eight baud rates for RS -232 operation. The rate is set to 57,600 baud when the instrument is shipped from the factory. You can set the baud rate from the front panel only. •...
  • Page 156 Chapter 4 Features and Functions Remote Interface Configuration Flow Control Selection (RS-232) You can select one of several flow control methods to coordinate the transfer of data between the instrument and your computer or modem. The method that you select will be determined by the flow method used by your computer or modem.
  • Page 157 Chapter 4 Features and Functions Remote Interface Configuration • Modem: This mode uses the DTR/DSR and RTS/CTS lines to control the flow of data between the instrument and a modem. When the RS-232 interface is selected, the instrument sets the DTR line true. The DSR line is set true when the modem is on-line.

  • Page 158: Calibration Overview

    Chapter 4 Features and Functions Calibration Overview Calibration Overview This section gives a brief introduction to the calibration features of the instrument and plug-in modules. For a more detailed discussion of the calibration procedures, see chapter 4 in the 34970A Service Guide. Calibration Security This feature allows you to enter a security code to prevent accidental or unauthorized calibrations of the instrument.
  • Page 159 Chapter 4 Features and Functions Calibration Overview To Unsecure for Calibration You can unsecure the instrument either from the front panel or over the remote interface. The instrument is secured when shipped from the factory and the security code is set to “...
  • Page 160 Chapter 4 Features and Functions Calibration Overview To Secure Against Calibration You can secure the instrument either from the front panel or over the remote interface. The instrument is secured when shipped from the factory and the security code is set to “...
  • Page 161 Chapter 4 Features and Functions Calibration Overview Calibration Message The instrument allows you to store one message in calibration memory in the mainframe. For example, you can store such information as the date when the last calibration was performed, the date when the next calibration is due, the instrument’s serial number, or even the name and phone number of the person to contact for a new calibration.
  • Page 162 Chapter 4 Features and Functions Calibration Overview Calibration Count You can query the instrument to determine how many calibrations have been performed. Note that your instrument was calibrated before it left the factory. When you receive your instrument, be sure to read the count to determine its initial value.

  • Page 163: Factory Reset State

    Alarm Output State Output Lines are Cleared Alarm Output Slope Fail = Low Module Hardware Factory Reset State 34901A, 34902A, 34908A Reset: All Channels Open 34903A, 34904A Reset: All Channels Open 34905A, 34906A Reset: Channels s11 and s21 Selected 34907A...

  • Page 164: Instrument Preset State

    No Change Alarm Output State Output Lines are Cleared Alarm Output Slope No Change Module Hardware Preset State 34901A, 34902A, 34908A Reset: All Channels Open 34903A, 34904A Reset: All Channels Open 34905A, 34906A Reset: Channels s11 and s21 Selected 34907A...

  • Page 165: Multiplexer Module Default Settings

    Chapter 4 Features and Functions Multiplexer Module Default Settings Multiplexer Module Default Settings The table below shows the default settings for each measurement function on the multiplexer modules. When you configure a channel for a particular function, these are the default settings. Temperature Measurements Default Setting °...

  • Page 166: Module Overview

    For complete specifications on each plug-in module, refer to the module sections in chapter 9. • 34901A 20-Channel Multiplexer, starting on page 164 • 34902A 16-Channel Multiplexer, starting on page 166 • 34903A 20-Channel Actuator, starting on page 168 •...

  • Page 167: 34901A 20-Channel Multiplexer

    Chapter 4 Features and Functions 34901A 20-Channel Multiplexer 34901A 20-Channel Multiplexer This module is divided into two banks of 10 channels each. Two additional fused channels are available for making direct, calibrated dc or ac current measurements with the internal DMM (external shunts are not required).
  • Page 168 Chapter 4 Features and Functions 34901A 20-Channel Multiplexer ρ ρ ρ WIRING LOG Slot Number: Name Function Comments H COM L COM 11 * 12 * 13 * 14 * 15 * 16 * 17 * 18 * 19 *...

  • Page 169: 34902A 16-Channel Multiplexer

    Chapter 4 Features and Functions 34902A 16-Channel Multiplexer 34902A 16-Channel Multiplexer This module is divided into two banks of eight channels each. All 16 channels switch both HI and LO inputs, thus providing fully isolated inputs to the internal DMM or an external instrument. When making 4-wire resistance measurements, the instrument automatically pairs channel n with channel n+8 to provide the source and sense connections.
  • Page 170 Chapter 4 Features and Functions 34902A 16-Channel Multiplexer ρ ρ ρ WIRING LOG Slot Number: Name Function Comments H COM L COM 09 * 10 * 11 * 12 * 13 * 14 * 15 * 16 * H COM L COM * 4W Sense Channels are paired to Channel (n-8).

  • Page 171: 34903A 20-Channel Actuator

    Chapter 4 Features and Functions 34903A 20-Channel Actuator 34903A 20-Channel Actuator This module contains 20 independent, SPDT (Form C) latching relays. Screw terminals on the module provide access to the Normally-Open, Normally-Closed, and Common contacts for each switch. This module does not connect to the internal DMM.
  • Page 172 Chapter 4 Features and Functions 34903A 20-Channel Actuator ρ ρ ρ WIRING LOG Slot Number: Comments NO = Normally Open, NC = Normally Closed Refer to the diagrams on page 20 to connect wiring to the module. Maximum Input Voltage: 300 V (CAT I) 20 AWG Typical Maximum Input Current: 1 A Maximum Switching Power: 50 W...

  • Page 173: 34904A 4X8 Matrix Switch

    Chapter 4 Features and Functions 34904A 4x8 Matrix Switch 34904A 4x8 Matrix Switch This module contains 32 two-wire crosspoints organized in a 4-row by 8-column configuration. You can connect any combination of inputs and outputs at the same time. This module does not connect to the internal DMM .
  • Page 174 Chapter 4 Features and Functions 34904A 4x8 Matrix Switch ρ ρ ρ WIRING LOG Slot Number: Name Comments Column Name Comments Example: Channel 32 represents Row 3 and Column 2. Refer to the diagrams on page 20 to connect wiring to the module. Maximum Input Voltage: 300 V (CAT I) 20 AWG Typical Maximum Input Current: 1 A...

  • Page 175: 34905A/6A Dual 4-Channel Rf Multiplexers

    Chapter 4 Features and Functions 34905A/6A Dual 4-Channel RF Multiplexers 34905A/6A Dual 4-Channel RF Multiplexers These modules consist of two independent 4-to-1 multiplexers. The channels in each bank are organized in a “tree” structure to provide high isolation and low VSWR . Both banks have a common earth ground. This module does not connect to the internal DMM .
  • Page 176 Chapter 4 Features and Functions 34905A/6A Dual 4-Channel RF Multiplexers ρ ρ ρ WIRING LOG Slot Number: Name Comments COM1 COM2 Refer to the diagrams on page 20 to connect wiring to the module. Maximum Input Voltage: 42 V Maximum Input Current: 700 mA Maximum Switching Power: 20 W SMB-to-BNC Cable Ten color-coded cables are included with the module.

  • Page 177: 34907A Multifunction Module

    Chapter 4 Features and Functions 34907A Multifunction Module 34907A Multifunction Module This module combines two 8-bit ports of digital input/output, a 100 kHz ± totalizer, and two 12V analog outputs. For greater flexibility, you can read digital inputs and the totalizer count during a scan. Digital Input/Output Bit 0 The DIO consists of two 8-bit ports with...
  • Page 178 Chapter 4 Features and Functions 34907A Multifunction Module ρ ρ ρ WIRING LOG Slot Number: Name Comments 01 (DIO 1) Bit 0 Bit 1 Bit 2 Bit 3 Bit 4 Bit 5 Bit 6 Bit 7 02 (DIO 2) Bit 0 Bit 1 Bit 2 Bit 3...

  • Page 179: 34908A 40-Channel Single-Ended Multiplexer

    Chapter 4 Features and Functions 34908A 40-Channel Single-Ended Multiplexer 34908A 40-Channel Single-Ended Multiplexer The module is divided into two banks of 20 channels each. All of the 40 channels switch HI only, with a common LO for the module. The module has a built-in thermocouple reference junction to minimize errors due to thermal gradients when measuring thermocouples.
  • Page 180 Chapter 4 Features and Functions 34908A 40-Channel Single-Ended Multiplexer ρ ρ ρ WIRING LOG Slot Number: Name Function Comments H COM L COM Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com...
  • Page 181 Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com...

  • Page 182: Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference

    Remote Interface Reference Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com...
  • Page 183 Remote Interface Reference • SCPI Command Summary, starting on page 181 • Simplified Programming Overview, starting on page 201 • The MEASure? and CONFigure Commands, starting on page 207 • Setting the Function, Range, and Resolution, starting on page 214 •...

  • Page 184: Scpi Command Summary

    Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference SCPI Command Summary SCPI Command Summary Throughout this manual, the following conventions are used for SCPI command syntax for remote interface programming: • Square brackets ( [ ] ) indicate optional keywords or parameters. • Braces ( { } ) enclose parameter choices within a command string. •...
  • Page 185 For example, the following command will generate an error on channel 121 on the 34901A module since this channel is for current measurements only. CONFigure:VOLTage:DC ( 101,121) •...
  • Page 186 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference SCPI Command Summary Scan Measurement Commands (see page 226 for more information) MEASure :TEMPerature? { TCouple |RTD|FRTD|THERmistor|DEF} ,{< type >|DEF}[,1[,{< resolution >|MIN|MAX|DEF}]] ,( < scan_list >) AUTO :VOLTage:DC? [{< range >| |MIN|MAX|DEF} [,< resolution >|MIN|MAX|DEF}],] ( <...
  • Page 187 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference SCPI Command Summary Scan Configuration Commands (see page 226 for more information) ROUTe :SCAN ( < scan_list >) :SCAN? :SCAN:SIZE? TRIGger :SOURce {BUS| IMMediate |EXTernal|ALARm1|ALARm2|ALARm3|ALARm4|TIMer} :SOURce? TRIGger :TIMer {< seconds >| |MAX} :TIMer? TRIGger :COUNt {< count >| |MAX|INFinity}...
  • Page 188 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference SCPI Command Summary Scan Statistics Commands (see page 233 for more information) CALCulate :AVERage:MINimum? [( < ch_list >)] ch_list :AVERage:MINimum:TIME? [( < >)] :AVERage:MAXimum? [( < ch_list >)] :AVERage:MAXimum:TIME? [( < ch_list >)] :AVERage:AVERage? [( <...
  • Page 189 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference SCPI Command Summary Scanning With an External Instrument (see page 239 for more information) ROUTe :SCAN ( < scan_list >) :SCAN? :SCAN:SIZE? TRIGger TIMer :SOURce {BUS|IMMediate|EXTernal| :SOURce? TRIGger :TIMer {< seconds >| |MAX} :TIMer? TRIGger :COUNt {<...
  • Page 190 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference SCPI Command Summary Temperature Configuration Commands (see page 219 for more information) CONFigure TCouple :TEMPerature { |RTD|FRTD|THERmistor|DEF} ,{< type >|DEF}[,1[,{< resolution >|MIN|MAX|DEF}]] ,( < scan_list >) CONFigure? [( < ch_list >)] UNIT :TEMPerature { |F|K}[,( <...
  • Page 191 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference SCPI Command Summary Voltage Configuration Commands (see page 223 for more information) CONFigure AUTO :VOLTage:DC [{< range >| |MIN|MAX|DEF} [,< resolution >|MIN|MAX|DEF}],] ( < scan_list >) ch_list CONFigure? [( < >)] [SENSe:] VOLTage:DC:RANGe {< range >|MIN|MAX}[,( <...
  • Page 192 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference SCPI Command Summary Resistance Configuration Commands (see page 224 for more information) CONFigure AUTO :RESistance [{< range >| |MIN|MAX|DEF} [,< resolution >|MIN|MAX|DEF}],] ( < scan_list >) ch_list CONFigure? [( < >)] [SENSe:] RESistance:RANGe {< range >|MIN|MAX}[,( <...
  • Page 193 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference SCPI Command Summary Current Configuration Commands (see page 224 for more information) Valid only on channels 21 and 22 on the 34901A multiplexer module. CONFigure AUTO :CURRent:DC [{< range >| |MIN|MAX|DEF} resolution scan_list [,< >|MIN|MAX|DEF}],] ( <...
  • Page 194 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference SCPI Command Summary Frequency and Period Configuration Commands (see page 214 for more information) CONFigure AUTO :FREQuency [{< range >| |MIN|MAX|DEF} [,< resolution >|MIN|MAX|DEF}],] ( < scan_list >) ch_list CONFigure? [( < >)] [SENSe:] FREQuency:VOLTage:RANGe {< range >|MIN|MAX}[,( <...
  • Page 195 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference SCPI Command Summary Mx+B Scaling Commands (see page 244 for more information) CALCulate :SCALe:GAIN < gain >[,( < ch_list >)] ch_list :SCALe:GAIN? [( < >)] :SCALe:OFFSet < offset >[,( < ch_list >)] :SCALe:OFFSet? [( < ch_list >)] :SCALe:UNIT <...
  • Page 196 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference SCPI Command Summary Alarm Limit Commands (see page 247 for more information) OUTPut :ALARm[ |2|3|4]:SOURce ( < ch_list >) :ALARm[ |2|3|4]:SOURce? CALCulate :LIMit:UPPer < hi_limit >[,( < ch_ list >)] :LIMit:UPPer? [( < ch_list >)] ch_list :LIMit:UPPer:STATe {OFF|ON}[,( <...
  • Page 197 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference SCPI Command Summary Digital Input Commands (see page 255 for more information) Ch 01 Ch 02 Ch 03 Ch 04 Ch 05 DIO (LSB) DIO (MSB) Totalizer CONFigure:DIGital:BYTE ( < scan_list >) CONFigure? [( < ch_list >)] [SENSe:]DIGital:DATA:{...
  • Page 198 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference SCPI Command Summary Digital Output Commands (see page 258 for more information) Ch 01 Ch 02 Ch 03 Ch 04 Ch 05 DIO (LSB) DIO (MSB) Totalizer SOURce BYTE :DIGital:DATA[:{ |WORD}] < data > ,( <...
  • Page 199 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference SCPI Command Summary Scan Triggering Commands (see page 228 for more information) TRIGger IMMediate :SOURce {BUS| |EXTernal|ALARm1|ALARm2|ALARm3|ALARm4|TIMer} :SOURce? TRIGger :TIMer {< seconds >| |MAX} :TIMer? TRIGger :COUNt {< count >| |MAX|INFinity} :COUNt? *TRG INITiate READ? State Storage Commands (see page 261 for more information) *SAV {0|1|2|3|4|5}...
  • Page 200 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference SCPI Command Summary System-Related Commands (see page 264 for more information) SYSTem < > < > :DATE yyyy ,< > :DATE? :TIME < >,< >,< ss.sss > :TIME? FORMat :READing:TIME:TYPE {ABSolute| RELative :READing:TIME:TYPE? *IDN? SYSTem:CTYPe? {100|200|300} DIAGnostic :POKE:SLOT:DATA {100|200|300}, <...
  • Page 201 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference SCPI Command Summary Interface Configuration Commands (see page 269 for more information) SYSTem:INTerface {GPIB|RS232} SYSTem:LOCal SYSTem:REMote SYSTem:RWLock Status System Commands (see page 286 for more information) *STB? *SRE < enable_value > *SRE? STATus :QUEStionable:CONDition? :QUEStionable[:EVENt]? :QUEStionable:ENABle <...
  • Page 202 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference SCPI Command Summary Calibration Commands (see page 292 for more information) CALibration? CALibration:COUNt? CALibration :SECure:CODE < new_code > :SECure:STATe {OFF| },< code > :SECure:STATe? CALibration :STRing < quoted_string > :STRing? CALibration :VALue < value > :VALue? Service-Related Commands (see page 294 for more information)
  • Page 203 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference SCPI Command Summary IEEE 488.2 Common Commands *CLS *ESR? *ESE < enable_value > *ESE? *IDN? *OPC *OPC? *PSC {0|1} *PSC? *RST *SAV {0|1|2|3|4|5} *RCL {0|1|2|3|4|5} *STB? *SRE < enable_value > *SRE? *TRG *TST? Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com...

  • Page 204: Simplified Programming Overview

    Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Simplified Programming Overview Simplified Programming Overview This section gives an overview of the basic techniques used to program the 34970A over the remote interface. This section is only an overview and does not give all of the details you will need to write your own application programs.
  • Page 205 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Simplified Programming Overview Using the MEASure? Command The MEASure? command provides the easiest way to program the instrument for scanning. However, this command does not offer much flexibility. When you execute this command, the instrument uses default values for the requested measurement configuration and immediately performs the scan.
  • Page 206 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Simplified Programming Overview Using the Parameters range resolution With the MEASure? and CONFigure commands, you can select the measurement function, range, and resolution all in one command. Use the range parameter to specify a fixed range larger than the expected value of the input signal.
  • Page 207 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Simplified Programming Overview Using the READ? Command The READ? command changes the state of the scan trigger system from the “idle” state to the “wait-for-trigger” state. Scanning will begin when the specified trigger conditions are satisfied following the receipt of the READ? command.
  • Page 208 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Simplified Programming Overview Example: Using MEASure? The following program segment shows how to use the MEASure? command to make a measurement on one channel. This example configures the instrument for dc voltage measurements, internally triggers the instrument to scan one channel, and then sends the reading to the instrument’s output buffer.
  • Page 209 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Simplified Programming Overview Example: Using CONFigure With INITiate and FETCh? The following program segment is similar to the previous example but it uses INITiate to place the instrument in the “wait-for-trigger” state. The INITiate command places the instrument in the “wait-for-trigger” state, scans the specified channel when the Ext Trig terminal is pulsed on the rear panel, and sends the reading to reading memory.

  • Page 210: The Measure? And Configure Commands

    Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference The MEASure? and CONFigure Commands The MEASure? and CONFigure Commands Both the MEASure? and CONFigure commands reset all measurement parameters to their default values. For more information on the default settings for these commands, see the table on page 201. •...
  • Page 211 = 0.00385). For 4-wire RTD measurements (FRTD), the instrument automatically pairs channel n with channel n+10 (34901A) or n+8 (34902A) to provide the source and sense connections. For example, make the source connections to the HI and LO terminals on channel 2 and the sense connections to the HI and LO terminals on channel 12.
  • Page 212 For 4-wire measurements (FRES), the instrument automatically pairs channel n with channel n+10 (34901A) or n+8 (34902A) to provide the source and sense connections. For example, make the source connections to the HI and LO terminals on channel 2 and the sense connections to the HI and LO terminals on channel 12.
  • Page 213 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference The MEASure? and CONFigure Commands To measure frequency or period at a specific resolution (i.e. over a specific integration time), both the range and resolution must be specified. For example, to measure a 10 kHz signal using an integration time of 2 PLC (see table on page 203), the MEASure? command could be executed as: MEAS:FREQ? 10E3, 0.022, (@101)
  • Page 214 = 0.00385). For 4-wire RTD measurements (FRTD), the instrument automatically pairs channel n with channel n+10 (34901A) or n+8 (34902A) to provide the source and sense connections. For example, make the source connections to the HI and LO terminals on channel 2 and the sense connections to the HI and LO terminals on channel 12.
  • Page 215 Note that this command also redefines the scan list. For 4-wire measurements (FRES), the instrument automatically pairs channel n with channel n+10 (34901A) or n+8 (34902A) to provide the source and sense connections. For example, make the source connections to the HI and LO terminals on channel 2 and the sense connections to the HI and LO terminals on channel 12.
  • Page 216 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference The MEASure? and CONFigure Commands CONFigure:FREQuency CONFigure:PERiod [{< range >|AUTO|MIN|MAX|DEF} resolution scan_list [,< >|MIN|MAX|DEF}],] ( < >) Configure the specified channels for frequency or period measurements but do not initiate the scan. For frequency and period measurements, the range parameter is ignored.

  • Page 217: Setting The Function, Range, And Resolution

    98. • For 4-wire measurements, the instrument automatically pairs channel n with channel n+10 (34901A) or n+8 (34902A) to provide the source and sense connections. Specify the paired channel in the lower bank (source) as the ch_list channel.
  • Page 218 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Setting the Function, Range, and Resolution [SENSe:]FUNCtion? [( < ch_list >)] Query the measurement function on the specified channels and return a quoted string. The short form of the function name is always returned (for example, "VOLT"). [SENSe:] VOLTage[:DC]:RANGe {<...
  • Page 219 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Setting the Function, Range, and Resolution [SENSe:] VOLTage[:DC]:RANGe:AUTO? [( < ch_list >)] ch_list VOLTage:AC:RANGe:AUTO? [( < >)] RESistance:RANGe:AUTO? [( < ch_list >)] ch_list FRESistance:RANGe:AUTO? [( < >)] ch_list CURRent[:DC]:RANGe:AUTO? [( < >)] CURRent:AC:RANGe:AUTO? [( < ch_list >)] ch_list...
  • Page 220 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Setting the Function, Range, and Resolution [SENSe:] VOLTage[:DC]:APERture {< time >|MIN|MAX}[,( < ch_list >)] time ch_list RESistance:APERture {< >|MIN|MAX}[,( < >)] FRESistance:APERture {< time >|MIN|MAX}[,( < ch_list >)] time @<ch_list CURRent[:DC]:APERture {< >|MIN|MAX}[,( >)] Select the aperture time for the function selected on the specified channels. MIN selects the smallest value accepted for this parameter, which gives the lowest resolution.
  • Page 221 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Setting the Function, Range, and Resolution [SENSe:] TEMPerature :NPLC {0.02|0.2|1|2|10|20|100|200|MIN|MAX}[,( < ch_list >)] VOLTage[:DC] ch_list :NPLC {0.02|0.2|1|2|10|20|100|200|MIN|MAX}[,( < >)] RESistance :NPLC {0.02|0.2|1|2|10|20|100|200|MIN|MAX}[,( < ch_list >)] FRESistance ch_list :NPLC {0.02|0.2|1|2|10|20|100|200|MIN|MAX}[,( < >)] CURRent[:DC] ch_list :NPLC {0.02|0.2|1|2|10|20|100|200|MIN|MAX}[,( <...

  • Page 222: Temperature Configuration Commands

    Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Temperature Configuration Commands Temperature Configuration Commands See also “Temperature Measurement Configuration” in chapter 4 starting on page 106. General Temperature Commands UNIT :TEMPerature {C|F|K}[,( < ch_list >)] ch_list :TEMPerature? [( < >)] Select the temperature measurement units on the specified channels. The default is “C”.
  • Page 223 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Temperature Configuration Commands Thermocouple Commands [SENSe:]TEMPerature:TRANsducer ch_list :TCouple:TYPE {B|E|J|K|N|R|S|T}[,( < >)] :TCouple:TYPE? [( < ch_list >)] Select the thermocouple type to use on the specified channels. The default is a J-Type thermocouple. The :TYPE? query returns the thermocouple type currently in use.
  • Page 224 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Temperature Configuration Commands [SENSe:]TEMPerature:TRANsducer :TCouple:CHECk {OFF|ON}[,( < ch_list >)] ch_list :TCouple:CHECk? [( < >)] Disable or enable the thermocouple check feature to verify that your thermocouples are properly connected to the screw terminals for measurements. If you enable this feature, the instrument measures the channel resistance after each thermocouple measurement to ensure a Ω...
  • Page 225 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Temperature Configuration Commands RTD Commands [SENSe:]TEMPerature:TRANsducer ch_list :RTD:TYPE {85|91}[,( < >)] :RTD:TYPE? [( < ch_list >)] ch_list :FRTD:TYPE {85|91}[,( < >)] ch_list :FRTD:TYPE? [( < >)] Select the RTD type for 2-wire or 4-wire measurements on the specified α...

  • Page 226: Voltage Configuration Commands

    Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Voltage Configuration Commands Voltage Configuration Commands See also “Voltage Measurement Configuration” in chapter 4 starting on page 113. INPut ch_list :IMPedance:AUTO {OFF|ON}[,( < >)] :IMPedance:AUTO? [( < ch_list >)] Disable or enable the automatic input resistance mode for dc voltage measurements on the specified channels.

  • Page 227: Resistance Configuration Commands

    “1” ( ON ). Current Configuration Commands See also “Current Measurement Configuration” in chapter 4 starting on page 116. Note: Current measurements are allowed only on channels 21 and 22 on the 34901A multiplexer module. [SENSe:] ch_list CURRent:AC:BANDwidth {3|20|200|MIN|MAX}[,( <...

  • Page 228: Frequency Configuration Commands

    Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Frequency Configuration Commands Frequency Configuration Commands See also “Frequency Measurement Configuration” in chapter 4 starting on page 118. [SENSe:] ch_list FREQuency:RANGe:LOWer {3|20|200|MIN|MAX}[,( < >)] FREQuency:RANGe:LOWer? [{( < ch_list >)|MIN|MAX}] Specify the lowest frequency expected in the input signal for frequency measurements on the specified channels.

  • Page 229: Scanning Overview

    Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Scanning Overview Scanning Overview See also “Scanning” in chapter 4 starting on page 74. The instrument allows you to combine a DMM (either internal or external) with multiplexer channels to create a scan. During a scan, the instrument connects the DMM to the configured multiplexer channels one at a time and makes a measurement on each channel.
  • Page 230 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Scanning Overview • You can use either the internal DMM or an external DMM to make measurements of your configured channels. However, the instrument allows only one scan list at a time; you cannot scan some channels using the internal DMM and others using an external DMM .
  • Page 231 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Scanning Overview Scanning Commands ROUTe scan_list :SCAN ( < >) :SCAN? Select the channels to be included in the scan list. To start the scan, use the INITiate or READ? command. To remove all channels from the scan list, send ROUT:SCAN ( The :SCAN? query returns a list of channel numbers in the SCPI definite length block format.
  • Page 232 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Scanning Overview TRIGger :TIMer {< seconds >|MIN|MAX} :TIMer? Set the scan-to-scan interval (in seconds) for measurements on the channels in the scan list. This command defines the time from the start of one scan sweep to the start of the next sweep. You can set the interval to any value between 0 seconds and 359,999 seconds (99:59:59 hours), with 1 ms resolution.
  • Page 233 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Scanning Overview ROUTe :CHANnel:DELay:AUTO {OFF|ON}[,( < ch_list >)] ch_list :CHANnel:DELay:AUTO? [( < >)] Disable or enable an automatic channel delay on the specified channels. If enabled, the delay is determined by the function, range, integration time, and ac filter setting (see “Automatic Channel Delays,”...
  • Page 234 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Scanning Overview Reading Format Commands During a scan, the instrument automatically adds a time stamp to all readings and stores them in non-volatile memory. Each reading is stored with measurement units, time stamp, channel number, and alarm status information.
  • Page 235 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Scanning Overview FORMat :READing:TIME {OFF|ON} :READing:TIME? Disable (default) or enable the inclusion of a time stamp with data produced by READ?, FETCh?, or other queries of scan results. This command operates in conjunction with the other FORMat:READing commands (they are not mutually exclusive).
  • Page 236 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Scanning Overview Scan Statistics Commands While a scan is running, the instrument automatically stores the minimum and maximum readings and calculates the average for each channel. You can read these values at any time, even during a scan. The instrument clears the values when a new scan is started, when the CALC:AVER:CLEAR command (described on the next page) is executed, after a Factory Reset (*RST command), or after an Instrument Preset...
  • Page 237 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Scanning Overview CALCulate:AVERage:AVERage? [( < ch_list >)] Calculate the mathematical average of all readings taken on each of the specified channels since the start of the scan. Each channel must be a multiplexer channel that has been configured to be part of the scan list. If no data is available for the specified channels, “0”...
  • Page 238 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Scanning Overview Scan Memory Commands You can store up to 50,000 readings in non-volatile memory during a scan. Readings are stored only during a scan and all readings are automatically time stamped. If memory overflows (the MEM annunciator will turn on), a status register bit is set and new readings will overwrite the first readings stored (the most recent readings are always preserved).
  • Page 239 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Scanning Overview SYSTem:TIME:SCAN? Read the time at the start of the scan. This command is not affected by the FORMat:READ:TIME:TYPE command. Returns the time in the form 2002,06,02,18,30,00.000 (June 2, 2002 at 6:30 PM ). FETCh? Transfer readings stored in non-volatile memory to the instrument’s output buffer where you can read them into your computer.

  • Page 240: Single-Channel Monitoring Overview

    Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Single-Channel Monitoring Overview Single-Channel Monitoring Overview In the Monitor function, the instrument takes readings as often as it can on a single channel, even during a scan. This feature is useful for trouble- shooting your system before a test or for watching an important signal. Any channel that can be “read”...
  • Page 241 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Single-Channel Monitoring Overview ROUTe :MONitor ( < channel >) :MONitor? Select the channel to be monitored. To turn on the monitor function, use the ROUT:MON:STATE ON command (see below). The :MONitor? query returns a list of channel numbers in the SCPI definite length block format.

  • Page 242: Scanning With An External Instrument

    Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Scanning With an External Instrument Scanning With an External Instrument If your application doesn’t require the built-in measurement capabilities of the 34970A, you can order it without the internal DMM . In this configuration, you can use the system for signal routing or control applications.
  • Page 243 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Scanning With an External Instrument ROUTe :SCAN ( < scan_list >) :SCAN? Select the channels to be included in the scan list. To start the scan, use the INITiate or READ? command. To remove all channels from the scan list, send ROUT:SCAN ( The :SCAN? query returns a list of channel numbers in the SCPI definite length block format.
  • Page 244 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Scanning With an External Instrument TRIGger :TIMer {< seconds >|MIN|MAX} :TIMer? Set the scan-to-scan interval (in seconds) for measurements on the channels in the scan list. This command defines the time from the start of one scan sweep to the start of the next sweep. You can set the interval to any value between 0 seconds and 359,999 seconds (99:59:59 hours), with 1 ms resolution.
  • Page 245 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Scanning With an External Instrument ROUTe :CHANnel:ADVance:SOURce {EXTernal|BUS|IMMediate} :CHANnel:ADVance:SOURce? This command is valid only when the internal DMM is disabled or removed from the 34970A. Select the source to provide the channel advance signal to the next channel in the scan list.
  • Page 246 Configure the list of channels for 4-wire external scanning without the internal DMM . When enabled, the instrument automatically pairs channel n with channel n+10 (34901A) or n+8 (34902A) to provide the source and sense connections. For example, make the source connections to the HI and LO terminals on channel 2 and the sense connections to the HI and LO terminals on channel 12.

  • Page 247: Mx+B Scaling Overview

    Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Mx+B Scaling Overview Mx+B Scaling Overview See also “Mx+B Scaling” in chapter 4 starting on page 119. The scaling function allows you to apply a gain and offset to all readings on a specified multiplexer channel during a scan. In addition to setting the gain (“M”) and offset (“B”) values, you can also specify a custom measurement label for your scaled readings ( RPM , PSI , etc.).
  • Page 248 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Mx+B Scaling Overview Mx+B Scaling Commands CALCulate gain ch_list :SCALe:GAIN < >[,( < >)] :SCALe:GAIN? [( < ch_list >)] Set the gain (“M”) for scaled readings on the specified channels. ± The maximum gain allowed is 1E+15.
  • Page 249 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Mx+B Scaling Overview ch_list CALCulate:SCALe:OFFSet:NULL [( < >)] Make an immediate null measurement on the specified channels and store it as the offset (“B”) for subsequent measurements. This allows you to adjust for voltage or resistive offsets through your wiring to the point of the measurement.

  • Page 250: Alarm System Overview

    Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Alarm System Overview Alarm System Overview See also “Alarm Limits” in chapter 4 starting on page 122. The instrument has four alarms which you can configure to alert you when a reading exceeds specified limits on a channel during a scan. You can assign a high limit, a low limit, or both to any configured channel in the scan list.
  • Page 251 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Alarm System Overview • You can assign an alarm to any configured channel and multiple channels can be assigned to the same alarm number. However, you cannot assign alarms on a specific channel to more than one alarm number.
  • Page 252 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Alarm System Overview • Four TTL alarm outputs are available on the rear-panel Alarms connector. You can use these hardware outputs to trigger external alarm lights, sirens, or send a TTL pulse to your control system. You can also initiate a scan sweep (no external wiring required) when an alarm event is logged on a channel.
  • Page 253 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Alarm System Overview Alarm Limit Commands OUTPut ch_list :ALARm[1|2|3|4]:SOURce ( < >) :ALARm[1|2|3|4]:SOURce? Assign the alarm number to report any alarm conditions on the specified channels. If not assigned, all alarms on all channels are reported on Alarm 1 by default.
  • Page 254 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Alarm System Overview CALCulate :LIMit:LOWer < value >[,( < ch_ list >)] ch_list :LIMit:LOWer? [( < >)] Set the lower limit for alarms on the specified channels. You can set the value to any number between -120% and +120% of the highest range, for the present function.
  • Page 255 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Alarm System Overview Alarm Output Commands Four TTL alarm outputs are available on the rear-panel Alarms connector. You can use these hardware outputs to trigger external alarm lights, sirens, or send a TTL pulse to your control system. Each alarm output line represents the logical “...
  • Page 256 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Alarm System Overview Digital I/O Alarm Commands See also “Using Alarms With the Multifunction Module” in chapter 4 starting on page 130. CALCulate ch_list :COMPare:TYPE {EQUal|NEQual}[,( < >)] ch_list :COMPare:TYPE? [( < >)] Select the comparison mode for alarms on the specified DIO channels. Select EQUal to generate an alarm when the data read from the port is equal to CALC:COMP:DATA after being masked by CALC:COMP:MASK .
  • Page 257 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Alarm System Overview CALCulate :COMPare:MASK < mask >[,( < ch_list >)] ch_list :COMPare:MASK? [( < >)] Specify the mask pattern for comparisons on the specified DIO channels. You must specify the mask parameter as a decimal value between 0 and 255 (binary data is not accepted).

  • Page 258: Digital Input Commands

    Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Digital Input Commands Digital Input Commands See also “Digital Input Operations” in chapter 4 starting on page 133. scan_list MEASure:DIGital:BYTE? ( < >) Configure the instrument to read the specified digital input channels on the multifunction module and immediately sweep through the scan list one time.

  • Page 259: Totalizer Commands

    Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Totalizer Commands Totalizer Commands See also “Totalizer Operations” in chapter 4 starting on page 135. scan_list MEASure:TOTalize? {READ|RRESet} ,( < >) Configure the instrument to read the count on the specified totalizer channels on the multifunction module and immediately sweep through the scan list one time.
  • Page 260 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Totalizer Commands [SENSe:] TOTalize:SLOPe {NEGative|POSitive}[,( < ch_list >)] ch_list TOTalize:SLOPe? [( < >)] Configure the totalizer to count on the rising edge (default; positive) or falling edge (negative) of the input signal. The totalizer channel is numbered “s03”, where s represents the slot number.

  • Page 261: Digital Output Commands

    Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Digital Output Commands Digital Output Commands SOURce :DIGital:DATA[:{BYTE|WORD}] < data > ,( < ch_list >) ch_list :DIGital:DATA[:{BYTE|WORD}]? ( < >) Output an 8-bit byte or 16-bit word digital pattern to the specified digital output channels. Note that you cannot configure a port for output operations if that port is already configured to be part of the scan list (digital input).

  • Page 262: Switch Control Commands

    The :CLOS? query returns the state of the specified channels. Returns “1” if the channel is closed or “0” if the channel is open. • On the 20-channel multiplexer (34901A), only one of the shunt switches (channels 21 and 22) can be closed at a time; connecting one channel will close the other.
  • Page 263 Configure the list of channels for 4-wire external scanning without the internal DMM . When enabled, the instrument automatically pairs channel n with channel n+10 (34901A) or n+8 (34902A) to provide the source and sense connections. For example, make the source connections to the HI and LO terminals on channel 2 and the sense connections to the HI and LO terminals on channel 12.

  • Page 264: State Storage Commands

    Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference State Storage Commands State Storage Commands The instrument has six storage locations in non-volatile memory to store instrument states. The locations are numbered 0 through 5. The instrument uses location “0” to automatically hold the state of the instrument at power down.
  • Page 265 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference State Storage Commands MEMory:STATe :NAME {1|2|3|4|5} [,< name >] :NAME? {1|2|3|4|5} Assign a name to the specified storage location (you cannot assign a name to location “0”). You can name a location from the front panel or over the remote interface but you can only recall a named state from the front panel.
  • Page 266 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference State Storage Commands MEMory:STATe :RECall:AUTO {OFF|ON} :RECall:AUTO? Disable or enable (default) the automatic recall of the power-down state from storage location “0” when power is turned on. Select “ ON ” to automatically recall the power-down state when power is turned on. Select “...

  • Page 267: System-Related Commands

    Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference System-Related Commands System-Related Commands See also “System-Related Operations” in chapter 4 starting on page 140. yyyy SYSTem:DATE < > < > < > Set the instrument calendar. The setting is stored in non-volatile memory. When shipped from the factory, instrument is set to the current time and date (U.S Mountain Time).
  • Page 268 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference System-Related Commands *IDN? Read the instrument’s identification string. The instrument returns three numbers for the system firmware. The first number is the firmware revision number for the measurement processor; the second is for the input/output processor; and the third is for the front-panel processor.
  • Page 269 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference System-Related Commands DISPlay {OFF|ON} DISPlay? Disable or enable the front-panel display. When disabled, the entire front-panel display goes dark and all display annunciators except ERROR are disabled. All keys except are locked out when the display is disabled.
  • Page 270 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference System-Related Commands INSTrument :DMM {OFF|ON} :DMM? Disable or enable the internal DMM . When you change the state of the internal DMM , the instrument issues a Factory Reset (*RST command). The :DMM? query returns the state of the internal DMM. Returns “0” (disabled) or “1”...
  • Page 271 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference System-Related Commands SYSTem:ERRor? Query the instrument’s error queue. A record of up to 10 errors is stored in the instrument’s error queue. Errors are retrieved in first-in-first-out ( FIFO ) order. The first error returned is the first error that was stored. When you have read all errors from the queue, the ERROR annunciator turns off and the errors are cleared.

  • Page 272: Interface Configuration Commands

    Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Interface Configuration Commands Interface Configuration Commands See also “Remote Interface Configuration” in chapter 4 starting on page 150. SYSTem:INTerface {GPIB|RS232} Select the remote interface. Only one interface can be enabled at a time. The GPIB interface is selected when the instrument is shipped from the factory.

  • Page 273: Rs-232 Interface Configuration

    Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference RS-232 Interface Configuration RS-232 Interface Configuration See also “Remote Interface Configuration” in chapter 4 on page 150. This section contains information to help you use the instrument over the RS-232 interface. The programming commands for RS-232 are listed on page 269.
  • Page 274 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference RS-232 Interface Configuration RS-232 Flow Control Modes You can select one of several flow control methods to coordinate the transfer of data between the instrument and your computer or modem. • None: In this mode, data is sent and received over the interface without any flow control used.
  • Page 275 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference RS-232 Interface Configuration RS-232 Data Frame Format A character frame consists of all the transmitted bits that make up a single character. The frame is defined as the bits from the start bit to the last stop bit, inclusively.
  • Page 276 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference RS-232 Interface Configuration If your computer has a 9-pin serial port with a male connector, use the cable included with the instrument (if you ordered the internal DMM ). If you need an additional cable, order the RS232-61601 cable which is part of the 34398A Cable Kit.

  • Page 277: Modem Communications

    Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Modem Communications Modem Communications This section gives details on communicating with the instrument from a remote PC using a modem. To communicate over the phone lines, you must have a PC and two modems. One modem is connected to your PC (local modem) and the other is connected to the 34970A (remote modem).

  • Page 278: The Scpi Status System

    Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference The SCPI Status System The SCPI Status System This section describes the structure of the SCPI status system used by the 34970A. The status system records various conditions and states of the instrument in five register groups as shown on the following page. Each of the register groups is made up of several low-level registers called Condition registers, Event registers, and Enable registers which control the action of specific bits within the register group.
  • Page 279 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference The SCPI Status System Agilent 34970A Status System NOTES: C = Condition Register EV = Event Register Alarm Register EN = Enable Register Questionable Data Register Ovld = Overload Ovfl = Overflow Queue Volt Ovld Alarm 1 Curr Ovld Alarm 2...
  • Page 280 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference The SCPI Status System The Status Byte Register The Status Byte register group reports conditions from the other register groups. Data in the instrument’s output buffer is immediately reported on the “Message Available” bit (bit 4). Clearing an event register from one of the other register groups will clear the corresponding bits in the Status Byte condition register.
  • Page 281 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference The SCPI Status System Using Service Request (SRQ) and Serial Poll You must configure your computer to respond to the IEEE -488 service request ( SRQ ) interrupt to use this capability. Use the Status Byte enable register (*SRE command) to select which condition bits will assert the IEEE -488 SRQ line.
  • Page 282 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference The SCPI Status System Using the Message Available Bit (MAV) You can use the Status Byte “Message Available” bit (bit 4) to determine when data is available to read into your computer. The instrument subsequently clears bit 4 only after all messages have been read from the output buffer.
  • Page 283 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference The SCPI Status System The Questionable Data Register The Questionable Data register group provides information about the quality of the instrument’s measurement results. Any or all of these conditions can be reported to the Questionable Data summary bit through the enable register.
  • Page 284 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference The SCPI Status System The Questionable Data event register is cleared when: • You execute a *CLS (clear status) command. • You query the event register using the STATus:QUES:EVENt? command. The Questionable Data enable register is cleared when: •...
  • Page 285 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference The SCPI Status System The Standard Event Register The Standard Event register group reports the following types of instrument events: power-on detected, command syntax errors, command execution errors, self-test or calibration errors, query errors, or the *OPC command is executed. Any or all of these conditions can be reported to the Standard Event summary bit through the enable register.
  • Page 286 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference The SCPI Status System The Standard event register is cleared when: • You execute the *CLS (clear status) command. • You query the event register using the *ESR? command. The Standard Event enable register is cleared when: •...
  • Page 287 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference The SCPI Status System The Alarm Register The Alarm register group is used to report the status of the four instrument alarm limits. Any or all of these alarm conditions can be reported to the Alarm Register summary bit through the enable register. To set the enable register mask, you must write a decimal value to the register using the STATus:ALARm:ENABle command.
  • Page 288 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference The SCPI Status System The Standard Operation Register The Standard Operation register group is used to report when the instrument is scanning. Any or all of these conditions can be reported to the Standard Operation summary bit through the enable register. To set the enable register mask, you must write a decimal value to the register using the STATus:OPER:ENABle command.

  • Page 289: Status System Commands

    Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Status System Commands Status System Commands An application program is included in chapter 7 which shows the use of the Status System Registers. Refer to page 330 for more information. Status Byte Register Commands See the table on page 277 for the register bit definitions. *STB? Query the summary (condition) register in this register group.
  • Page 290 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Status System Commands Questionable Data Register Commands See the table on page 280 for the register bit definitions. STATus:QUEStionable:CONDition? Query the condition register in this register group. This is a read-only register and bits are not cleared when you read the register. A *RST (Factory Reset) will clear all bits in a condition register.
  • Page 291 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Status System Commands Standard Event Register Commands See the table on page 282 for the register bit definitions. *ESR? Query the event register in this register group. This is a read-only register. Once a bit is set, it remains set until cleared by a *CLS (clear status) command.
  • Page 292 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Status System Commands Alarm Register Commands See the table on page 284 for the register bit definitions. STATus:ALARm:CONDition? Query the condition register in this register group (note that this condition register uses only bit 4). This is a read-only register and bits are not cleared when you read the register.
  • Page 293 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Status System Commands Standard Operation Register Commands See the table on page 285 for the register bit definitions. STATus:OPERation:CONDition? Query the condition register in this register group. This is a read-only register and bits are not cleared when you read the register. Note that a *RST (Factory Reset) command may set the “Configuration Change”...
  • Page 294 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Status System Commands DATA:POINts:EVENt:THReshold < num_rdgs > DATA:POINts:EVENt:THReshold? Set a bit in the event register when the specified number of readings have been stored in reading memory during a scan. You can set the memory threshold to any value between 1 reading and 50,000 readings. The default is 1 reading.

  • Page 295: Calibration Commands

    Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Calibration Commands Calibration Commands For an overview of the calibration features of the instrument, refer to “Calibration Overview” in chapter 4 starting on page 155. For a more detailed discussion of the instrument’s calibration procedures, see chapter 4 in the 34970A Service Guide.
  • Page 296 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Calibration Commands CALibration:SECure:STATe {OFF|ON},< code > CALibration:SECure:STATe? Unsecure or secure the instrument for calibration. The security code may contain up to 12 alphanumeric characters. The :STAT? query reads the secured state of the instrument. Returns “0” (unsecured) or “1”...

  • Page 297: Service-Related Commands

    Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Service-Related Commands Service-Related Commands INSTrument :DMM {OFF|ON} :DMM? Disable or enable the internal DMM . When you change the state of the internal DMM , the instrument issues a Factory Reset (*RST command). The :DMM? query returns the state of the internal DMM. Returns “0” (disabled) or “1”...
  • Page 298 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Service-Related Commands *RST Reset the instrument to the Factory configuration. See “Factory Reset State” on page 160 in chapter 4 for a complete listing of the instrument’s Factory Reset state. This command is equivalent to selecting FACTORY RESET from the front-panel Sto/Rcl Menu.

  • Page 299: An Introduction To The Scpi Language

    Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference An Introduction to the SCPI Language An Introduction to the SCPI Language SCPI (Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments) is an ASCII -based instrument command language designed for test and measurement instruments. Refer to “Simplified Programming Overview,” starting on page 201, for an introduction to the basic techniques used to program the instrument over the remote interface.
  • Page 300 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference An Introduction to the SCPI Language Command Format Used in This Manual The format used to show commands in this manual is shown below: VOLTage:DC:RANGe {< >|MINimum|MAXimum}[,( < >)] range ch_list The command syntax shows most commands (and some parameters) as a mixture of upper- and lower-case letters.
  • Page 301 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference An Introduction to the SCPI Language Command Separators A colon ( : ) is used to separate a command keyword from a lower-level keyword. You must insert a blank space to separate a parameter from a command keyword.
  • Page 302 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference An Introduction to the SCPI Language Querying Parameter Settings You can query the current value of most parameters by adding a question mark ( ? ) to the command. For example, the following command sets the scan count to 10 sweeps: "TRIG:COUN 10"...
  • Page 303 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference An Introduction to the SCPI Language SCPI Parameter Types The SCPI language defines several different data formats to be used in program messages and response messages. Numeric Parameters Commands that require numeric parameters will accept all commonly used decimal representations of numbers including optional signs, decimal points, and scientific notation.
  • Page 304 Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference An Introduction to the SCPI Language String Parameters String parameters can contain virtually any set of characters. A string must begin and end with matching quotes; ASCII 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.

  • Page 305: Using Device Clear

    Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference Using Device Clear Using Device Clear Device Clear is an IEEE-488 low-level bus message which you can use to return the instrument to a responsive state. Different programming languages and IEEE-488 interface cards provide access to this capability through their own unique commands.

  • Page 306: Chapter 6 Error Messages

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  • Page 307 Error Messages • Errors are retrieved in first-in-first-out ( FIFO ) order. The first error returned is the first error that was stored. Errors are cleared as you read them. When you have read all errors from the queue, the ERROR annunciator turns off and the errors are cleared.

  • Page 308: Execution Errors

    Chapter 6 Error Messages Execution Errors Execution Errors -101 Invalid character An invalid character was found in the command string. You may have used an invalid character such as #, {, $, or % in the command header or within a parameter. Example: CONF:VOLT:DC { 101) -102 Syntax error...
  • Page 309 Chapter 6 Error Messages Execution Errors -114 Header suffix out of range A header suffix is the number that can be appended to the end of some command headers. This error is generated if an invalid number is used. Example: OUTP:ALARM5:SOURCE (“5”...
  • Page 310 Chapter 6 Error Messages Execution Errors -158 String data not allowed A character string was received but is not allowed for this command. Check the list of parameters to verify that you have used a valid parameter type. Example: CALC:SCALE:STATE ’ON’ -168 Block data not allowed Data was sent to the instrument in SCPI definite length block format...
  • Page 311 Chapter 6 Error Messages Execution Errors -224 Illegal parameter value A discrete parameter was received which was not a valid choice for this command. You may have used an invalid parameter choice. Example: TRIG:SOURCE ALARM (ALARM is not a valid choice) -230 Data stale A FETCh? or DATA:REMove? command was received but internal...

  • Page 312: Instrument Errors

    Chapter 6 Error Messages Instrument Errors Instrument Errors Channel list: slot number out of range The specified slot number is invalid. The channel number has the form ( scc), where s is the slot number (100, 200, or 300) and cc is the channel number.
  • Page 313 Chapter 6 Error Messages Instrument Errors Settings conflict: calculate limit state forced off If you plan to use scaling on a channel which will also use alarms, be sure to configure the scaling values first. This error is generated if you attempt to assign the alarm limits first and the instrument will turn off alarms and clear the limit values.
  • Page 314 Chapter 6 Error Messages Instrument Errors Not able to execute while scan initiated While a scan is running, you cannot change any parameters that affect the scan (channel configuration, scan interval, scaling values, alarm limits, issue a Card Reset, or recall a stored state). To stop a scan in progress, send the ABORt command or a bus Device Clear.
  • Page 315 The requested operation is not valid for the specified channel. You may have tried to a configure a channel for current measurements (valid only on channels 21 and 22 on the 34901A module). Or you may have tried to configure scaling on a module that does not connect to the internal DMM .
  • Page 316 Chapter 6 Error Messages Instrument Errors I/O processor: isolator framing error I/O processor: isolator overrun error Communications: RS-232 framing error Communications: RS-232 overrun error Communications: RS-232 parity error RS-232 only: unable to execute using HP-IB There are three commands which are allowed only with the RS-232 interface: SYSTem:LOCal, SYSTem:REMote, and SYSTem:RWLock.

  • Page 317: Self-Test Errors

    Chapter 6 Error Messages Self-Test Errors Self-Test Errors The following errors indicate failures that may occur during a self-test. Refer to the 34970A Service Guide for more information. Self-test: front panel not responding Self-test: RAM read/write Self-test: A/D sync stuck Self-test: A/D slope convergence Self-test/Cal: not able to calibrate rundown gain Self-test/Cal: rundown gain out of range...

  • Page 318: Calibration Errors

    Chapter 6 Error Messages Calibration Errors Calibration Errors The following errors indicate failures that may occur during a calibration. Refer to the 34970A Service Guide for more information. Cal: security disabled by jumper The calibration security feature has been disabled with a jumper inside the instrument.
  • Page 319 Chapter 6 Error Messages Calibration Errors NOTE: The following error messages indicate possible hardware failures within the instrument. If any of the following errors occur, contact your nearest Agilent Service Center for repair. Cal: full scale correction out of range Cal: DCV offset out of range Cal: DCI offset out of range Cal: RES offset out of range...

  • Page 320: Plug-In Module Errors

    Chapter 6 Error Messages Plug-In Module Errors Plug-In Module Errors NOTE: The following error messages indicate possible hardware failures within the instrument. If any of the following errors occur, contact your nearest Agilent Service Center for repair. Module hardware: unexpected data received Module hardware: missing stop bit Module hardware: data overrun Module hardware: protocol violation...
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  • Page 322: Chapter 7 Application Programs

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  • Page 323 Application Programs This chapter contains several example programs to help you develop programs for your specific measurement application. Chapter 5, “Remote Interface Reference,” starting on page 179, lists the syntax for the SCPI (Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments) commands available to program the 34970A. The examples in this chapter have been tested on a PC running on Windows 95.

  • Page 324: Example Programs For Excel 7.0

    Chapter 7 Application Programs Example Programs for Excel 7.0 Example Programs for Excel 7.0 This section contains two example programs written using Excel macros (Visual Basic ® for Applications) to control the 34970A. Using Excel, you can send SCPI commands to configure the instrument and then record measurement data on the Excel spreadsheet.
  • Page 325 Excel 7.0 Example: takeReadings Macro ’"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" ’ This Excel Macro (Visual Basic) configures the 34970A for scanning with the 34901A, ’ 34902A, or 34908A multiplexer modules. When this subroutine is executed, it will ’ take the specified number of readings on the selected channel. You can easily modify the ’...
  • Page 326 Chapter 7 Application Programs Example Programs for Excel 7.0 Excel 7.0 Example: Port Configuration Macro Option Explicit ’ Declarations for VISA.DLL ’ Basic I/O Operations Private Declare Function viOpenDefaultRM Lib "VISA32.DLL" Alias "#141" (sesn As Long) As Long Private Declare Function viOpen Lib "VISA32.DLL" Alias "#131" (ByVal sesn As Long, _ ByVal desc As String, ByVal mode As Long, ByVal TimeOut As Long, vi As Long) As Long Private Declare Function viClose Lib "VISA32.DLL"...
  • Page 327 Chapter 7 Application Programs Example Programs for Excel 7.0 Sub OpenPort() ’"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" ’ Be sure that the GPIB address has been set in the ’VISAaddr’ variable ’ before calling this routine. ’"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" ’ Open the VISA session errorStatus = viOpenDefaultRM(videfaultRM) ’...
  • Page 328 Excel 7.0 Example: ScanChannels Macro ’"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" ’ This Excel Macro (Visual Basic) configures the 34970A for scanning with the 34901A, ’ 34902A, or 34908A multiplexer modules. When this subroutine is executed, it will ’ scan 5 channels and display the readings on a spreadsheet. You can easily modify the ’...
  • Page 329 Chapter 7 Application Programs Example Programs for Excel 7.0 ’ Set up the scan trigger parameters after configuring the channels in the scan list ’ using the CONFigure command. The following commands configure the scan interval. SendSCPI "TRIG:COUNT " & Str$(numberScans) SendSCPI "TRIG:SOUR TIMER"...
  • Page 330 Chapter 7 Application Programs Example Programs for Excel 7.0 Sub makeDataTable(Channel As Integer, columnIndex As Integer) ’ This routine will take the parsed data in row ’1’ for a channel and put it into a ’ table. ’Channel’ determines the row of the table and ’columnIndex’ determines the ’...

  • Page 331: Example Programs For C And C

    Chapter 7 Application Programs Example Programs for C and C++ Example Programs for C and C++ The following C programming examples show you how to send and receive formatted I/O. For more information on non-formatted I/O, refer to the Agilent VISA User’s Guide. The examples in this section show you how to use the SCPI commands for the instrument with the VISA functionality and does not include error trapping.
  • Page 332 Chapter 7 Application Programs Example Programs for C and C++ C / C++ Example: dac_out.c /* dac_out.c /*************************************************************************** * Required: 34907A Multifunction Module in slot 200; VISA library * This program uses the VISA library to communicate with the 34970A. * The program queries slot 200 and displays the response.
  • Page 333 Chapter 7 Application Programs Example Programs for C and C++ C / C++ Example: stat_reg.c /* stat_reg.c /***************************************************************************** * Required: VISA library. * This program demonstrates the use of the 34970A Status Registers * for an alarm and Operation Complete (OPC) and for enabling and receiving * an SRQ interrupt.
  • Page 334 Chapter 7 Application Programs Example Programs for C and C++ /* Stay in loop until the srqFlag goes negative */ index = 1; for (count = 0; count <45; count++) index = 0; printf("."); printf(" srq flag = %d\n",srqFlag); while (srqFlag>=0); /* A negative srqFlag indicates scan is done */ /* The instrument is done, so close the SRQ handler */ viDisableEvent(DataAcqu,VI_EVENT_SERVICE_REQ,VI_HNDLR);...
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  • Page 336: Chapter 8 Tutorial

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  • Page 337 Tutorial This chapter describes methods that you can use to reduce errors that can affect your measurements. You will also find information to help you better understand how the 34970A makes measurements and what you can do to get the best results. This chapter is divided into the following sections: •...

  • Page 338: System Cabling And Connections

    Chapter 8 Tutorial System Cabling and Connections System Cabling and Connections This section describes methods to reduce measurement errors that can be introduced by your system cabling. Many system cabling errors can be reduced or eliminated by selecting the proper cable and grounding scheme for your system.
  • Page 339 Chapter 8 Tutorial System Cabling and Connections • Cable Resistance – Varies with wire gauge size and cable length. Use the largest gauge wire possible and try to keep the cable lengths as short as possible to minimize the cable resistance. The following table lists typical cable resistance for copper wire of several gauge sizes °...
  • Page 340 Chapter 8 Tutorial System Cabling and Connections Grounding Techniques One purpose of grounding is to avoid ground loops and minimize noise. Most systems should have at least three separate ground returns. 1. One ground for signals. You may also want to provide separate signal grounds between high-level signals, low-level signals, and digital signals.
  • Page 341 Chapter 8 Tutorial System Cabling and Connections Shielding Techniques Shielding against noise must address both capacitive (electrical) and inductive (magnetic) coupling. The addition of a grounded shield around the conductor is highly effective against capacitive coupling. In switching networks, this shielding often takes the form of coaxial cables and connectors.
  • Page 342 Chapter 8 Tutorial System Cabling and Connections Sources of System Cabling Errors Radio Frequency Interference Most voltage-measuring instruments can generate false readings in the presence of large, high-frequency signals. Possible sources of high-frequency signals include nearby radio and television transmitters, computer monitors, and cellular telephones. High-frequency energy can also be coupled to the internal DMM on the system cabling.
  • Page 343 Chapter 8 Tutorial System Cabling and Connections Thermal EMF Errors Thermoelectric voltages are the most common source of error in low-level dc voltage measurements. Thermoelectric voltages are generated when you make circuit connections using dissimilar metals at different temperatures. Each metal-to-metal junction forms a thermocouple, which generates a voltage proportional to the junction temperature difference.
  • Page 344 Chapter 8 Tutorial System Cabling and Connections Noise Caused by Ground Loops When measuring voltages in circuits where the internal DMM and the device-under-test are both referenced to a common earth ground, a ground loop is formed. As shown below, any voltage difference between the two ground reference points (V ground causes a current to flow through the LO measurement lead.
  • Page 345 Chapter 8 Tutorial System Cabling and Connections Low-Level AC Measurement Errors When measuring ac voltages less than 100 mV, be aware that these measurements are especially susceptible to errors introduced by extraneous noise sources. An exposed test lead will act as an antenna and the internal DMM will measure the signals received.

  • Page 346: Measurement Fundamentals

    Chapter 8 Tutorial Measurement Fundamentals Measurement Fundamentals This section explains how the 34970A makes measurements and discusses the most common sources of error related to these measurements. The Internal DMM The internal DMM provides a universal input front-end for measuring a variety of transducer types without the need for additional external signal conditioning.
  • Page 347 Chapter 8 Tutorial Measurement Fundamentals Rejecting Power-Line Noise Voltages A desirable characteristic of an integrating analog-to-digital (A/D) converter is its ability to reject spurious signals. Integrating techniques reject power-line related noise present with dc signals on the input. This is called normal mode rejection or NMR .
  • Page 348 Chapter 8 Tutorial Measurement Fundamentals Temperature Measurements A temperature transducer measurement is typically either a resistance or voltage measurement converted to an equivalent temperature by software conversion routines inside the instrument. The mathematical conversion is based on specific properties of the various transducers. The mathematical conversion accuracy (not including the transducer accuracy) for each transducer type is shown below.
  • Page 349 Chapter 8 Tutorial Measurement Fundamentals RTD Measurements An RTD is constructed of a metal (typically platinum) that changes resistance with a change in temperature in a precisely known way. The internal DMM measures the resistance of the RTD and then calculates the equivalent temperature. An RTD has the highest stability of the temperature transducers.
  • Page 350 Chapter 8 Tutorial Measurement Fundamentals Thermocouple Measurements A thermocouple converts temperature to voltage. When two wires composed of dissimilar metals are joined, a voltage is generated. The voltage is a function of the junction temperature and the types of metals in the thermocouple wire. Since the temperature characteristics of many dissimilar metals are well known, a conversion from the voltage generated to the temperature of the junction can be made.
  • Page 351 Chapter 8 Tutorial Measurement Fundamentals ° An ice bath is used to create a known reference temperature (0 Once the reference temperature and thermocouple type are known, the temperature of the measurement thermocouple can be calculated. Internal DMM Ice Bath The T-type thermocouple is a unique case since one of the conductors (copper) is the same metal as the internal DMM ’s input terminals.
  • Page 352 Chapter 8 Tutorial Measurement Fundamentals To make a more accurate measurement, you should extend the copper test leads of the internal DMM closer to the measurement and hold the connections to the thermocouple at the same temperature. Internal DMM Measurement Thermocouple Ice Bath Reference Thermocouple...
  • Page 353 Chapter 8 Tutorial Measurement Fundamentals In some measurement situations, however, it would be nice to remove the need for an ice bath (or any other fixed external reference). To do this, an isothermal block is used to make the connections. An isothermal block is an electrical insulator, but a good heat conductor.
  • Page 354 Chapter 8 Tutorial Measurement Fundamentals Thermocouple Types Temperature Probe T/C Type Pos (+) Lead Neg (-) Lead Range Accuracy Comments ° ° ± ° Platinum-30% Rhodium Platinum-60% Rhodium C - 1820 High Temperature. U.S. Gray Beware of contamination. British Do not insert in Gray metal tubes.
  • Page 355 Chapter 8 Tutorial Measurement Fundamentals Sources of Error in Thermocouple Measurements Reference Junction Error A thermocouple is typically formed by welding or soldering two wires together to make the junction. Soldering introduces a third metal into the junction. Provided that both sides of the thermocouple are at the same temperature, the third metal has little effect.
  • Page 356 Chapter 8 Tutorial Measurement Fundamentals Shunt Impedance The insulation used for thermocouple wire and extension wire can be degraded by high temperatures or corrosive atmospheres. These breakdowns appear as a resistance in parallel with the thermocouple junction. This is especially apparent in systems using a small gauge wire where the series resistance of the wire is high.
  • Page 357 Chapter 8 Tutorial Measurement Fundamentals DC Voltage Measurements To make a useful dc meter, a “front-end” is required to condition the input before the analog-to-digital conversion. Signal conditioning increases the input resistance, amplifies small signals, and attenuates large signals to produce a selection of measuring ranges. Signal Conditioning for DC Measurements Input signal conditioning for dc voltage measurements includes both amplification and attenuation.
  • Page 358 Chapter 8 Tutorial Measurement Fundamentals Sources of Error in DC Voltage Measurements Common Mode Rejection Ideally, the internal DMM is completely isolated from earth-referenced circuits. However, there is finite resistance and capacitance between the input LO terminal and earth ground. If the input terminals are both driven by an earth-referenced signal (V ) then a current will flow through R and create a voltage drop...
  • Page 359 Chapter 8 Tutorial Measurement Fundamentals Noise Caused by Injected Current Residual capacitances in the instrument’s power transformer cause small currents to flow from the LO terminal of the internal DMM to earth ground. The frequency of the “injected current” is the power line frequency or possibly harmonics of the power line frequency.
  • Page 360 Chapter 8 Tutorial Measurement Fundamentals Loading Errors Due to Input Resistance Measurement loading errors occur when the resistance of the device-under-test ( DUT ) is an appreciable percentage of the instrument’s own input resistance. The diagram below shows this error source. Where: = Ideal DUT voltage = DUT source resistance...
  • Page 361 Chapter 8 Tutorial Measurement Fundamentals Loading Errors Due to Input Bias Current The semiconductor devices used in the input circuits of the internal DMM have slight leakage currents called bias currents. The effect of the input bias current is a loading error at the internal DMM ’s input terminals. The leakage current will approximately double for every 10 °...
  • Page 362 Chapter 8 Tutorial Measurement Fundamentals AC Voltage Measurements The main purpose of an ac “front end” is to change an ac voltage input into a dc voltage which can be measured by the ADC . Signal Conditioning for AC Measurements Input signal conditioning for ac voltage measurements includes both attenuation and amplification.
  • Page 363 Chapter 8 Tutorial Measurement Fundamentals True RMS AC Measurements True RMS responding multimeters measure the “heating” potential of an applied voltage. Unlike an “average responding” measurement, a true RMS measurement is used to determine the power dissipated in a resistor. The power is proportional to the square of the measured true RMS voltage, independent of waveshape.
  • Page 364 Chapter 8 Tutorial Measurement Fundamentals Making High-Speed AC Measurements The internal DMM ’s ac voltage and ac current functions implement three low-frequency filters. These filters allow you to trade-off low frequency accuracy for faster scanning speed. The fast filter settles in 0.12 seconds and is useful for measurements above 200 Hz.
  • Page 365 Chapter 8 Tutorial Measurement Fundamentals Sources of Error in AC Voltage Measurements Many of the errors associated with dc voltage measurements also apply to ac voltage measurements. Additional errors unique to ac voltage measurements are described in this section. Crest Factor Errors (non-sinusoidal inputs) A common misconception is that “since the internal DMM is true RMS , its sinewave accuracy specifications apply to all waveforms.”...
  • Page 366 Chapter 8 Tutorial Measurement Fundamentals Example: Calculating Measurement Error Calculate the approximate measurement error for a pulse train input with a crest factor of 3 and a fundamental frequency of 20 kHz. The internal DMM is set to the 1 V range. For this example, use the ±...
  • Page 367 Chapter 8 Tutorial Measurement Fundamentals AC Loading Errors In the ac voltage function, the input of the Ω internal DMM appears as a 1 M resistance in parallel with 150 pF of capacitance. The cabling that you use to connect signals to the instrument will also add additional capacitance and loading.
  • Page 368 Chapter 8 Tutorial Measurement Fundamentals Low-Level AC Measurement Errors When measuring ac voltages less than 100 mV, be aware that these measurements are especially susceptible to errors introduced by extraneous noise sources. An exposed test lead will act as an antenna and the internal DMM will measure the signals received.
  • Page 369 Chapter 8 Tutorial Measurement Fundamentals Measurements Below Full Scale You can make the most accurate ac measurements when the internal DMM is at full scale of the selected range. Autoranging occurs at 10% and 120% of full scale. This enables you to measure some inputs at full scale on one range and 10% of full scale on the next higher range.
  • Page 370 Chapter 8 Tutorial Measurement Fundamentals Current Measurements Current measurements are allowed only on the 34901A module. An ammeter senses the current flowing through its input connections – approximating a short circuit between its input terminals. An ammeter must be connected in series with the circuit or device being measured such that current flows through both the meter and the test circuit.
  • Page 371 Chapter 8 Tutorial Measurement Fundamentals Sources of Error in DC Current Measurements When you connect the internal DMM in series with a test circuit to measure current, a measurement error is introduced. The error is caused by the DMM ’s series burden voltage. A voltage is developed across the wiring resistance and current shunt resistance of the internal DMM as shown below.
  • Page 372 Chapter 8 Tutorial Measurement Fundamentals Resistance Measurements An ohmmeter measures the dc resistance of a device or circuit connected to its input. Resistance measurements are performed by supplying a known dc current to an unknown resistance and measuring the dc voltage drop. To Amplifier and Analog-to-Digital Converter...
  • Page 373 Chapter 8 Tutorial Measurement Fundamentals The 4-wire ohms method is used in systems where lead resistances can become quite large and variable and in automated test applications where cable lengths can be quite long. The 4-wire ohms method has the obvious disadvantage of requiring twice as many switches and twice as many wires as the 2-wire method.
  • Page 374 Chapter 8 Tutorial Measurement Fundamentals Offset Compensation Most connections in a system use materials that produce small dc voltages due to dissimilar metal-to-metal contact (thermocouple effect) or electrochemical batteries (for a description of the thermocouple effect, see page 340). These dc voltages also add errors to resistance measurements.
  • Page 375 Chapter 8 Tutorial Measurement Fundamentals Sources of Error in Resistance Measurements External Voltages Any voltages present in the system cabling or connections will affect a resistance measurement. The effects of some of these voltages can be overcome by using offset compensation (as described on the previous page).
  • Page 376 Chapter 8 Tutorial Measurement Fundamentals Strain Gage Measurements Although the instrument does not directly support strain measurements, you can measure a strain gage using a 4-wire resistance measurement with scaling. However, BenchLink Data Logger software has built-in strain gage measurement capability. When a force is applied to a body, the body deforms.
  • Page 377 Chapter 8 Tutorial Measurement Fundamentals Strain Sensors The metal foil resistance strain gage is by far the most widely used strain measurement sensor. It consists of a thin metallic foil grid bonded to a thin insulating, adhesive backing. The resistance of the foil varies linearly with strain.
  • Page 378 Chapter 8 Tutorial Measurement Fundamentals Making Strain Gage Measurements A Wheatstone bridge is commonly used to enable instruments with low-sensitivity measuring capabilities to measure small resistance changes common in strain measurements. Instruments with high-resolution resistance measuring capabilities, like the 34970A internal DMM , can directly measure small resistance changes with high precision and linearity.
  • Page 379 Chapter 8 Tutorial Measurement Fundamentals Frequency and Period Measurements The internal DMM uses a reciprocal counting technique to measure frequency and period. This method generates constant measurement resolution for any input frequency. The internal DMM ’s ac voltage measurement section performs input signal conditioning for frequency and period measurements.
  • Page 380 Chapter 8 Tutorial Measurement Fundamentals Sources of Error in Frequency and Period Measurements The internal DMM ’s ac voltage measurement section performs input signal conditioning. All frequency counters are susceptible to errors when measuring low-voltage, low-frequency signals. The effects of both internal noise and external noise pickup are critical when measuring “slow”...

  • Page 381: Low-Level Signal Multiplexing

    Low-level multiplexers are available in the following types: one-wire, 2-wire, and 4-wire. The following sections in this chapter describe each type of multiplexer. The following low-level multiplexer modules are available with the 34970A. ã 34901A 20-Channel Armature Multiplexer ã 34902A 16-Channel Reed Multiplexer ã 34908A 40-Channel Single-Ended Multiplexer An important feature of a multiplexer used as a DMM input channel is that only one channel is connected at a time.
  • Page 382 Note: Only one channel can be closed at a time; closing one channel will open the previously closed channel. Two-Wire Multiplexers The 34901A and 34902A multiplexers switch both HI and LO inputs, thus providing fully isolated inputs to the internal DMM or an external instrument. These modules also provide a thermocouple reference junction for making thermocouple measurements (for more information on the purpose of an isothermal block, see page 350).
  • Page 383 For 4-wire measurements, the instrument automatically pairs channel n with channel n+10 (34901A) or n+8 (34902A) to provide the source and sense connections. For example, make the source connections to the HI and LO terminals on channel 2 and the sense connections to the HI and LO terminals on channel 12.
  • Page 384 Signal Routing and Multiplexing When used stand-alone for signal routing (not scanning or connected to the internal DMM ), multiple channels on the 34901A and 34902A multiplexers can be closed at the same time. You must be careful that this does not create a hazardous condition (for example, connecting two power sources together).
  • Page 385 Chapter 8 Tutorial Low-Level Signal Multiplexing and Switching Sources of Error in Multiplexing and Switching Noise can be coupled inside a switch by the drive circuitry, by switch thermal EMF s, or by coupling among signal paths. Noise can also be generated outside the network and conducted or coupled into the switch.
  • Page 386 Chapter 8 Tutorial Low-Level Signal Multiplexing and Switching The 34901A and 34902A multiplexers have an additional relay, called a bank switch or tree switch, which helps reduce channel-to- channel noise ). The multiplexer channels are divided into two banks. The bank switch isolates one bank of channels from the other, effectively removing any parallel adjacent capacitance from the isolated bank.

  • Page 387: Actuators And General-Purpose Switching

    Chapter 8 Tutorial Actuators and General-Purpose Switching Actuators and General-Purpose Switching The 34903A Actuator provides 20 independent, isolated SPDT (single-pole, double-throw) or Form C switches. This module offers simple on-off switching which you can use to control power devices or for custom switching applications.
  • Page 388 Chapter 8 Tutorial Actuators and General-Purpose Switching Snubber Circuits Whenever a relay contact opens or closes, electrical breakdown or arching can occur between the contacts. This can cause high-frequency noise radiation, voltage and current surges, and physical damage to the relay contacts.
  • Page 389 Chapter 8 Tutorial Actuators and General-Purpose Switching The maximum value for R is usually made equal to the load resistance R Therefore, the limits on R can be stated as: < R < R Note that the actual value of the current (I ) in a circuit is determined by the equation: Where V is the peak value of the source voltage and R...
  • Page 390 Chapter 8 Tutorial Actuators and General-Purpose Switching Using Attenuators Provisions have been made on the 34903A circuit board for installing simple attenuators or filter networks. An attenuator is composed of two resistors that act as a voltage divider. A typical attenuator circuit is shown below.

  • Page 391: Matrix Switching

    Chapter 8 Tutorial Matrix Switching Matrix Switching A matrix switch connects multiple inputs to multiple outputs and therefore offers more switching flexibility than a multiplexer. Use a matrix for switching low-frequency (less than 10 MHz) signals only. A matrix is arranged in rows and columns. For example, a simple 3x3 matrix could be used to connect three sources to three test points as shown below.
  • Page 392 Chapter 8 Tutorial Matrix Switching Combining Matrices You can combine two or more matrix switches to provide more complex switching. For example, the 34904A provides a 4-row by 8-column matrix. You can combine two of these modules as either a 4-row by 16-column matrix or an 8-row by 8-column matrix.

  • Page 393: Rf Signal Multiplexing

    Chapter 8 Tutorial RF Signal Multiplexing RF Signal Multiplexing A special type of multiplexer is the RF multiplexer. This type of multiplexer Ω Ω uses special components to maintain a 50 or 75 impedance in the signal line being switched. In a test system, these switches are often used to route a test signal from a signal source to the device-under-test.
  • Page 394 Chapter 8 Tutorial RF Signal Multiplexing Sources of Error in RF Switching Impedance mismatching can cause a variety of errors in an RF multiplexing system. These errors can cause distorted waveforms, overvoltage, or undervoltage conditions. To minimize RF impedance mismatching: ã...

  • Page 395: Multifunction Module

    Chapter 8 Tutorial Multifunction Module Multifunction Module Digital Input The 34907A module has two non-isolated 8-bit input/output ports which you can use for reading digital patterns. • You can read the live status of the bits on the port or you can configure a scan to include a digital read.
  • Page 396 Chapter 8 Tutorial Multifunction Module Digital Output The 34907A module has two non-isolated 8-bit input/output ports which you can use for outputting digital patterns. You can combine the two ports to output a 16-bit word. A simplified diagram of a single output bit is shown below.
  • Page 397 Chapter 8 Tutorial Multifunction Module Using an External Pull-Up In general, an external pull-up is required only when you want to set the output “high” value greater than TTL levels. For example, to use a +12V external power supply, the value of the external pull-up resistor is calculated as follows: = 12 Vdc x safety factor = 1 mA x 0.5 = 0.5 mA...
  • Page 398 Chapter 8 Tutorial Multifunction Module Totalizer The 34907A module has a 26-bit totalizer which can count pulses at a 100 kHz rate. You can manually read the totalizer count or you can configure a scan to read the count. Totalizer Software On / Off Reset...
  • Page 399 Chapter 8 Tutorial Multifunction Module • You can control when the totalizer actually records counts by providing a gate signal ( G and terminals on the module). A TTL high signal applied to the “ G ” terminal enables counting and a low signal disables counting.
  • Page 400 Chapter 8 Tutorial Multifunction Module Voltage (DAC) Output The 34907A module has two analog outputs capable of outputting ± calibrated voltages between 12 volts with 16 bits of resolution. Each DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter) channel can be used as a programmable voltage source for analog input to other devices.
  • Page 401 Chapter 8 Tutorial Multifunction Module DAC Errors The output of a DAC varies with temperature. If possible, you should operate the instrument at a stable temperature and as close as possible to the calibration temperature of the DAC for greater accuracy. The output of a DAC also exhibits two other types of errors: differential error and integral error.

  • Page 402: Relay Life And Preventative Maintenance

    Chapter 8 Tutorial Relay Life and Preventative Maintenance Relay Life and Preventative Maintenance The 34970A Relay Maintenance System automatically counts the cycles on each relay in the instrument and stores the total count in non-volatile memory on each switch module. Use this feature to track relay failures and predict system maintenance requirements.
  • Page 403 Maximum Switching Capacity 240V 180V 120V 0.2A 0.4A 0.6A 0.8A Armature (34901A, 34903A, 34904A, 34908A) 10 mA 20 mA 30 mA 40 mA 50 mA Reed (34902A) Current Switched Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com...
  • Page 404 Chapter 8 Tutorial Relay Life and Preventative Maintenance Switching Frequency Relay contacts heat up as they switch significant power. The heat is dissipated through the leads and the body of the relay. As you increase the switching frequency to near its maximum, heat cannot dissipate before the next cycle.
  • Page 405 Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com...
  • Page 406 • AC Measurement and Operating Characteristics, on page 407 • Measurement Rates and System Characteristics, on page 408 • Module Specifications: 34901A, 34902A, 34908A, 34903A, 34904A, on page 409 34905A, 34906A, on page 410 Typical AC Performance Graphs, on page 411 34907A, on page 412 •...

  • Page 407: Chapter 9 Specifications

    0.002 + 0.0020 100.0000 mA < 0.6 V 0.010 + 0.004 0.030 + 0.005 0.050 + 0.005 0.002 + 0.0005 34901A Only 1.000000 A < 2 V 0.050 + 0.006 0.080 + 0.010 0.100 + 0.010 0.005 + 0.0010 Temperature...

  • Page 408: Dc Measurement And Operating Characteristics

    Shunt Resistance: for 10 mA, 100 mA; 0.1 for 1A. 47 (47) ° C (0.02 PLC) Input Protection: 1.5A 250 V fuse on 34901A module Thermocouple Autozero OFF Operation ± ° Conversion: ITS-90 software compensation Following instrument warm-up at calibration temperature µ...

  • Page 409: Ac Accuracy Specifications

    1.000000 A 10 Hz – 5 kHz 0.10 + 0.04 0.10 + 0.04 0.10 + 0.04 0.015 + 0.006 34901A Only 100.0000 mA 3 Hz – 5 Hz 1.00 + 0.5 1.00 + 0.5 1.00 + 0.5 0.100 + 0.06 5 Hz –...

  • Page 410: Ac Measurement And Operating Characteristics

    10 mA; 0.1 for 100 mA, 1A [6] For external trigger or remote operation using default Input Protection: 1.5A 250 V fuse on 34901A module settling delay (Delay Auto) Measurement Noise Rejection [7] Maximum limit with default settling delays defeated...

  • Page 411: Measurement Rates And System Characteristics

    Warranty: 1 year 34902A Scanning DCV/Ohms, alternate channels 34901A/34908A Scanning DCV [1] Reading speeds for 60 Hz and (50 Hz) operation; autozero OFF INTO and OUT of Memory to GPIB or RS-232 (INIT, FETCh) [2] For fixed function and range, readings to memory,...

  • Page 412: Module Specifications 34901A, 34902A, 34908A, 34903A, 34904A

    Chapter 9 Specifications Module Specifications Module Specifications 34901A, 34902A, 34908A, 34903A, 34904A Multiplexer Actuator Matrix General 34901A 34902A 34908A 34903A 34904A Number of Channels 20+2 2/4 wire 2/4 wire 1 wire SPDT 2 wire Connects to Internal DMM Scanning Speed...

  • Page 413: 34905A, 34906A

    Chapter 9 Specifications Module Specifications Module Specifications 34905A, 34906A The ac performance graphs are shown on the following page. RF Multiplexer General 34905A 34906A AC Characteristics 34905A 34906A Number of Channels Dual 1x4 Dual 1x4 Bandwidth 2 GHz 2 GHz Ω...

  • Page 414: Typical Ac Performance Graphs

    Chapter 9 Specifications Typical AC Performance Graphs Typical AC Performance Graphs 34905A, 34906A Insertion Loss (50Ω) Insertion Loss (75Ω) Direct to Module Using provided adapter cables VSWR (50Ω) VSWR (75Ω) Crosstalk (75Ω) Crosstalk (50Ω) Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com...

  • Page 415: Benchlink Data Logger Software Specifications

    Chapter 9 Specifications Module Specifications Module Specifications Software Specifications 34907A Digital Input / Output BenchLink Data Logger (not included with Option 001) System Requirements Port 1, 2: 8 Bit, input or output, non-isolated PC Hardware: 486, 66 MHz, 16 MB RAM, (L): <...

  • Page 416: Product And Module Dimensions

    Chapter 9 Specifications Product and Module Dimensions Product and Module Dimensions 103.6 mm 254.4 mm 374.0 mm 88.5 mm 212.6 mm 348.3 mm Module 315.6 91.9 All dimensions are shown in millimeters. Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com...

  • Page 417: To Calculate Total Measurement Error

    Chapter 9 Specifications To Calculate Total Measurement Error To Calculate Total Measurement Error Each specification includes correction factors which account for errors present due to operational limitations of the internal DMM . This section explains these errors and shows how to apply them to your measurements. Refer to “Interpreting Internal DMM Specifications,”...
  • Page 418 Chapter 9 Specifications To Calculate Total Measurement Error Understanding the “ % of range ” Error The range error compensates for inaccuracies that result from the function and range you select. The range error contributes a constant error, expressed as a percent of range, independent of the input signal level.

  • Page 419: Interpreting Internal Dmm Specifications

    Chapter 9 Specifications Interpreting Internal DMM Specifications Interpreting Internal DMM Specifications This section is provided to give you a better understanding of the terminology used and will help you interpret the internal DMM ’s specifications. Number of Digits and Overrange The “number of digits”...
  • Page 420 Chapter 9 Specifications Interpreting Internal DMM Specifications Resolution Resolution is the numeric ratio of the maximum displayed value divided by the minimum displayed value on a selected range. Resolution is often expressed in percent, parts-per-million (ppm), counts, or bits. ⁄ For example, a 6 -digit multimeter with 20% overrange capability can display a measurement with up to 1,200,000 counts of resolution.
  • Page 421 Chapter 9 Specifications Interpreting Internal DMM Specifications 24-Hour Accuracy The 24-hour accuracy specification indicates the internal DMM ’s relative accuracy over its full measurement range for short time intervals and within a stable environment. Short-term accuracy is ± usually specified for a 24-hour period and for a 1 °C temperature range.

  • Page 422: Configuring For Highest Accuracy Measurements

    Chapter 9 Specifications Configuring for Highest Accuracy Measurements Configuring for Highest Accuracy Measurements The measurement configurations shown below assume that the internal DMM is in its Factory Reset state. It is also assumed that manual ranging is enabled to ensure proper full scale range selection. DC Voltage, DC Current, and Resistance Measurements: •...
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  • Page 424: Index

    Index If you have questions relating to the operation of the 34970A, call 1-800-452-4844 in the United States, or contact your nearest Agilent Technologies Sales Office. Ω 34905A module (50 34970A Warnings ac performance graphs, 411 block diagram, 53 34901A, 165...
  • Page 425 Index ac voltage measurements alarm queue, 41 autozero ac filter, 114, 361 clearing, 122, 126 definition, 105 connections, 21 number of alarms, 122 vs. integration time, 105 loading errors, 364 output format, 127 average responding error, 360 low frequency filter, 114, 361 storing alarms, 122, 126 average, during scan, 75 ranges, 21, 113...
  • Page 426 Index calendar channel numbering factory setting, 145 34901A, 164 C and C++ example programs, 328 setting, 22, 145 34902A, 166 cable kits (SMB-to-BNC) calibration certificate, 17 34903A, 168 34905A, 173 calibration 34904A, 170 34906A, 173 overview, 155 34905A, 172 cable tie, wiring, 20...
  • Page 427 Index connector pinout current measurements decimal format (digital input), 42, 133 alarm output, 128 ac low frequency filter, 116, 361 declaration of conformity, inside rear cover RS-232, 273 ac settling time, 116, 361 default delays (channel delays), 89 connector location burden voltage, 368 delay (channel delay), 88 Alarm output, 5, 128...
  • Page 428 Index display Excel macro example programs, 321 FORMat:READ:ALARm command, 231 annunciators, 4 Express Exchange program, 10 FORMat:READ:CHANnel command, 231 enable/disable, 144 EXT annunciator, 4 FORMat:READ:TIME command, 232, 264 text message, 144 Ext Trig connector, 5, 83, 95 FORMat:READ:UNIT command, 232 DISPlay:TEXT command, 266 external DMM four-wire multiplexers, 58, 380...
  • Page 429 Index INST:DMM command, 243, 267 INST:DMM:INST? command, 243, 267 “half” digit, 100, 416 jumper, Totalize Threshold, 135, 175 integral error (DAC), 398 handle junction temperature, 347 integrating ADC, 61 adjusting, 29 integration time removing, 29 command syntax, 218 handshake (RS-232) Kelvins, setting units, 106 definition, 103 DTR/DSR mode, 153...
  • Page 430 (“B”) values, 120 resolution parameter, 207 result codes, 274 while scanning, 75, 119 syntax statements, 207 module description Measurement Complete signal, 95 34901A, 164 measurement error, calculating, 414 34902A, 166 measurement range name, stored states, 48 34903A, 168 autorange, 98...
  • Page 431 89 product dimensions, 413, 414 reading format, 87 plug-in module description programming examples readings memory, storing alarms, 122 34901A, 164 C and C++, 328, 329 readings, viewing, 24, 90 34902A, 166 Excel 7.0, 321, 322, 323 real-time clock...
  • Page 432 Index reference thermocouple, 349 revision number (firmware) register diagram (status), 276 34970A, 146 safety information, inside front cover relative time, 87 plug-in modules, 146 Sample (*) annunciator, 4 relay contact protection, 385 RF cable kits (SMB-to-BNC), 173 sample programs relay contact resistance, 399 RF multiplexers C and C++, 328 relay cycle count...
  • Page 433 Index scanning screw terminal diagram serial poll, 278 aborting scan, 78, 79 34901A, 165 service request (SRQ), 278 alarm mode, 84 34902A, 167 settling delay channel delay, 88 34903A, 169 automatic, 89 clearing memory, 75, 78, 79 34904A, 171 default value, 88...
  • Page 434 Index SOUR:DIG:DATA:BYTE command, 258 STATus:QUES:ENABle command, 287 SYSTem:REMote command, 269 SOUR:DIG:DATA:WORD command, 258 STATus:QUES:EVENt? command, 287 SYSTem:RWLock command, 269 SOUR:DIG:STATe? command, 258 Step key, 24, 78 SYSTem:TIME command, 264 SOUR:VOLTage command, 258 Sto/Rcl key, 36, 48 SYSTem:TIME:SCAN? command, 236 SCPI language, short form, 297 stop bits (RS-232), 270 SYSTem:VERSion?, 268, 295 SPDT (Form C) switching, 59, 384...
  • Page 435 Index Thermocouple Check feature, 107, 221 totalizer thermocouples ac vs. TTL threshold, 135 UNIT:TEMP command, 106, 219 calculation error, 353 adding to scan list, 44, 136 units color codes, 351 block diagram, 395 temperature, 106, 219 conversion accuracy, 345 clearing the count, 136 with readings, 87 connections, 21 contact bounce, 396...
  • Page 436 Index Warnings XON/XOFF flow mode (RS-232), 153 34901A, 165 34902A, 167 34903A, 169 ZERO:AUTO command, 105, 223 34904A, 171 34908A, 176 warranty information, inside front cover weight, product, 408 Wheatstone bridge (strain), 375 wire size (gauge), 336 wiring log 34901A, 165...
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  • Page 438 1 September 2004 Date Ray Corson Product Regulations Program Manager For further information, please contact your local Agilent Technologies sales office, agent or distributor, or Agilent Technologies Deutschland GmbH, Herrenberger Straße 130, D 71034 Böblingen, Germany. Template: A5971-5302-2, Rev. B.00 34970A-DoC-B DoC Revision B Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ...
  • Page 439 Alarm Output State Output Lines are Cleared Alarm Output Slope Fail = Low Module Hardware Factory Reset State Application 34901A, 34902A, 34908A Reset: All Channels Open 34903A, 34904A Reset: All Channels Open Programs 34905A, 34906A Reset: Channels s11 and s21 Selected...
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  • Page 441 Page 1 Tuesday, May 9, 2006 4:33 PM Agilent Technologies, Inc. Printed in Malaysia Edition 4 June 2006 E0606 *34970-90003* User’s Guide 34970-90003 Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com...

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