The Keysight/Agilent/HP 34970A is a modular data acquisition and switch unit built around a 6½-digit internal DMM and three-slot mainframe architecture. It delivers simultaneous measurement and switching control for automated test systems, supporting up to 120 single-ended channels or 96 matrix crosspoints through hot-swappable 34900A series plug-in modules. The instrument scans at up to 250 channels/second, stores 50,000 readings in non-volatile memory, and includes per-channel HI/LO alarm limits with four TTL alarm outputs. A battery-backed real-time clock enables scan pacing and reading time-stamping for production and laboratory environments.
Technical Specifications
Measurement & Scanning
• Internal DMM resolution: 6½ digits (22-bit)
• Scan rate: Up to 250 channels/second
• Non-volatile memory: 50,000 readings
• Measurement functions: 11 (DC/AC voltage, DC/AC current, 2/4-wire resistance, temperature, frequency, period, reference junction compensation)
• Temperature measurement: Thermocouples, RTDs, thermistors
• DC voltage accuracy: 0.004% of reading + 0.0005% of range (18–28 °C) Hardware
• Mainframe slots: 3
• Maximum single-ended channels: 120
• Maximum matrix crosspoints: 96
• Relay closure counting: Yes (maintenance tracking)
• TTL alarm outputs: 4
• Real-time clock: Battery-backed Interfaces & Control
• GPIB and RS-232
• SCPI compatible
• Included software: BenchVue DAQ Control and Analysis app; BenchLink Data Logger 3 Power & Physical
• Power input: 100, 120/220, 240 Vac ±10%; 45–66 Hz
• Dimensions: 89 mm H × 255 mm W × 374 mm D
• Weight: 8 lb – Key Features • Hot-swappable module architecture for field reconfiguration
• Per-channel alarm thresholds reduce external processing overhead
• Relay maintenance counter predicts service intervals
• True RMS AC measurement (voltage and current)
• Built-in thermocouple reference compensation eliminates external lookup tables – Typical Applications • Environmental chamber monitoring and automated temperature logging
• Production line parametric testing and go/no-go alarming
• Power supply load sequencing and current profiling
• Thermal resistance mapping across multi-point sensor arrays
• Material characterization (RTD/thermistor curve capture) – Compatibility & Integration The 34970A accepts any 34900A series module. Common configurations include the 34901A (20-channel multiplexer), 34903A (20-channel actuator/switch), 34904A (4×8 matrix), 34905A/34906A (RF multiplexers at 50/75 Ω), 34907A (analog output + digital I/O), and 34908A (40-channel multiplexer). GPIB and RS-232 interfaces enable integration into existing ATE and data logging frameworks.
