The Agilent/HP 34970A is a modular data acquisition and switch unit designed for automated testing, data logging, and real-time monitoring across development and production environments. Its 3-slot mainframe accepts plug-in modules for customized measurement and switching configurations, while an integrated 6½-digit (22-bit) DMM measures 11 distinct signal types including temperature, voltage, current, resistance, frequency, and period with 0.004% DC voltage accuracy. The unit delivers up to 250 channels per second scan rates and 600 readings per second on single channels, storing 50,000 time-stamped readings in non-volatile memory protected by a battery-backed real-time clock. GPIB and RS-232 connectivity with SCPI support enable seamless instrument integration, while optional plug-in modules expand functionality to 120 single-ended channels or 96 matrix crosspoints per frame, supporting analog output, digital I/O, and totalizer operations.
Technical Specifications
• Mainframe: 3-slot modular chassis accommodating plug-in switch and control modules
• Internal DMM Resolution: 6½-digit (22-bit)
• DC Voltage Accuracy: 0.004% basic
• Scan Rate: Up to 250 channels/second
• Single-Channel Reading Rate: Up to 600 readings/second
• Memory Capacity: 50,000 time-stamped readings (non-volatile)
• Real-Time Clock: Battery-backed with ~4-year typical life
• Operating Temperature: 0°C to 55°C (full accuracy)
• Storage Temperature: -40°C to 70°C
• Operating Humidity: Up to 80% RH at 40°C
• Power Supply: 100/120/220/240 V ±10%
• Power Consumption: 12 W (25 VA peak)
• Weight: 3.6 kg net
– Key Features
• Measures temperature (thermocouples, RTDs, thermistors), DC/AC voltage, 2-wire and 4-wire resistance, DC/AC current, frequency, and period
• Built-in per-channel signal conditioning
• Up to 120 single-ended or 96 matrix crosspoints per frame
• Automatic power-fail recovery with resume scanning
• GPIB (IEEE-488) and RS-232 interfaces
• SCPI compatible
• Optional digital I/O, analog output, and totalizer modules
– Typical Applications
• Automated parametric and functional testing
• Environmental chamber monitoring
• Thermal characterization and validation
• Multi-channel data acquisition in production test environments
– Compatibility & Integration
GPIB and RS-232 connectivity support both local and remote operation. SCPI command set enables integration into automated test sequences. BenchLink Data Logger software for Windows is included with standard configurations.
