The HP/Agilent 3499A is a 2U, 5-slot switch/control mainframe that consolidates high-density switching and control functions for automated test equipment (ATE) systems. It delivers up to 200 channels with scanning rates to 350 channels per second and can open or close 200 channels in less than 0.1 second. The mainframe accepts 19 different plug-in module types – including multiplexer, relay, matrix, digital I/O, VHF, RF, and microwave variants – enabling signal switching from DC to 26.5 GHz across voltage ranges of 1 mV to 250 V and currents up to 8 A. Parallel driving circuits handle up to 50 channels in 25 ms. Communication occurs via GPIB or RS-232, with built-in TTL-compatible digital I/O and external trigger support through an 8-pin mini DIN connector. Memory stores up to 50 instrument setups and 10 errors in SCPI mode (firmware REV 4.0 or later). Relay cycle counters support preventative maintenance. The 3.8 kg mainframe operates on 100–240 VAC universal input at 47–63 Hz, consuming 40 VA maximum (3499A/B) or 65 VA maximum (3499C). Screw terminal blocks and crimp connectors accommodate field wiring.
Technical Specifications
• Module Slots: 5
• Maximum Channels: Up to 200
• Scanning Rate: Up to 350 channels per second
• Switching Speed: Open/close 200 channels in <0.1 second
• Parallel Driving: Up to 50 channels in 25 ms
• Frequency Range: DC to 26.5 GHz (module dependent)
• Voltage Range: 1 mV to 250 V
• Current Range: 1 mA to 8 A
• Thermal Offset Voltage: <50 µV (example module)
• Memory: 50 instrument setups and 10 errors (SCPI mode, FW REV 4.0+)
• Digital I/O Block Transfer Rate: 20 Kbytes/sec (long word)
• Power Supply: 100–240 VAC, 47–63 Hz; 100–127 VAC (400 Hz)
• Power Consumption: 40 VA (3499A/B) or 65 VA (3499C) – Key Features • 19 compatible plug-in module types for custom signal routing
• SCPI programming language support
• Built-in relay cycle counters for maintenance tracking
• TTL-compatible digital I/O with external trigger input
• Low thermal offset for precision measurement modules
• Automatic line voltage sensing (100–240 V) – Typical Applications • Automated component and subsystem test
• Multi-frequency RF and microwave signal switching
• High-speed relay and multiplexer operations
• Manufacturing test floor and ATE system integration – Compatibility & Integration • Interfaces: GPIB, RS-232
• Connectors: GPIB, RS-232, 8-pin mini DIN (5 pins digital I/O, 3 pins external trigger)
• Terminal Options: Screw terminal block, crimp & insert terminal block, DIN96-to-D50/25 cables
• Rack Format: 2U, full-width rack mount
