The HP/Agilent 44470A is a 10-channel multiplexer module that routes and switches analog signals to a common bus for sequential scanning in data acquisition and measurement systems. It employs armature latching relays to handle DC, AC, and precision low-level signal routing with minimal thermal offset and excellent isolation characteristics. The module integrates into the HP 3488A switch control unit ecosystem, enabling rapid channel cycling at rates exceeding 43 channels/second.
Technical Specifications
Switching Capacity
• 10 channels, 2-wire configuration per channel
• Maximum voltage: 250 V DC, 250 Vac RMS, 350 Vac peak (terminal-terminal or terminal-chassis)
• Maximum current: 2 A DC, 2 A AC RMS
• Maximum power: 60 W DC, 125 VA AC
• Scan rate: >43 channels/second
DC Performance
• Initial closed-channel resistance: <1 Ω
• Thermal offset: 10¹¹ Ω
• High-to-low isolation: >10¹⁰ Ω
• Channel-to-chassis isolation: >10¹⁰ Ω
AC Performance (50 Ω termination)
• Insertion loss at 100 kHz: <0.30 dB; at 1 MHz: <0.35 dB; at 10 MHz: <0.90 dB
• Crosstalk at 100 kHz: <-73 dB; at 1 MHz: <-53 dB; at 10 MHz: <-33 dB
• Capacitance (1 channel closed): channel-channel <5 pF, high-low <27 pF, channel-chassis <80 pF
Relay Specifications
• Type: Armature latching
• Mechanical life: 10⁶ cycles
• Operating modes: Single-channel break-before-make or multiple channels closed together
– Key Features
• Removable screw terminal block for simplified field wiring
• Four-wire ohm measurement capability via dual-module card pair configuration
• Low closed-channel resistance minimizes signal degradation
• High isolation ratios support sensitive measurement applications
• Mechanical relay design provides latching operation with extended service life
– Typical Applications
• Automated test systems and data acquisition
• Precision low-level analog signal routing
• Environmental monitoring instrumentation
• Matrix switching in conjunction with compatible input/output modules
• Multi-channel signal multiplexing to measurement instruments
– Compatibility & Integration
The module interfaces directly with the HP 3488A switch/control unit. The HP 44480A terminal block is the compatible wiring interface; terminal blocks may be ordered separately. Weight: approximately 1.2 lbs.
