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Agilent 34970AData Acquisition/Switch UnitProduct OverviewAgilent performanceat a fraction of the costof other standalonedata acquisition systems
Table of resUsing the 34970A for data logging applicationsData Logging Feature ChecklistUsing the 34970A for ATE applicationsATE Feature ChecklistUsing the 34970A for switching applicationsCustomize your 34970A with plug-in modulesModules-at-a-Glance Selection GuideAgilent QualitySpec Interpretation GuideAccuracy SpecificationsSystem SpecificationsSoftwareModules SpecificationsMultiplexers (34901A, 34902A, and 34908A)Actuator module (34903A)Matrix module (34904A)RF Multiplexer modules (34905A, 34906A)Multifunction module (34907A)Rack Mounting and DimensionsOrdering Information
Price and performance beyond compareCustom configurations that-grow with youGo ahead and compare the Agilent Technologies34970A Data Acquisition/Switch Unit with otherdata acquisition systems currently available. You’llfind it hard to come up with a system that offersthe powerful measurement performance, flexibility,and ease of use of the 34970A— even in systemscosting three to five times as much.Three module slots and eight switch/controlmodules allow you to customize the 34970A tomeet your unique requirements. Buy only whatyou need—and add more modules later as yourapplication grows.How did we manage to pack so much performanceinto such a low-cost instrument? We borrowed technology developed for our top-of-the-line productsand put it into a package that cuts assembly time,incorporates custom ICs to reduce parts count, andsimplifies production testing. That means it costsus less to make. The results? You spend less without sacrificing quality or performance.From the simplified configuration procedures,to the self-guiding front panel interface, we putin extra time and energy to save yours. Simplethings like on-module screw-terminal connectors,built-in thermocouple reference junctions, wellorganized user documentation full of examplesand hints, and a standard Getting Started kit thatwill have you making measurements 15 minutesout of the box all add up to increased productivity,whether you use the instrument every day oronly now and then.What can you expect from a data acquisitionsystem that’s this affordable?Measurements you-can trustWe took the measurement engine from our bestselling benchtop DMM and embedded it inside a3-slot cardcage. You get the benefit of provenAgilent measurement performance, universalinputs with built-in signal conditioning, and modular flexibility, all in a low-cost, compact data acquisition package. The 34970A features 61/2 digits (22bits) of resolution, 0.004% basic dcV accuracy, andultra-low reading noise. Combine that with scanrates of up to 250 channels/sec, and you’ve got thespeed and accuracy you need to get the job doneright the first time.Unequaled ease of useFree software to-save you time-and moneyNow you don’t have to spend your valuable timewriting or configuring software. Agilent BenchLinkData Logger 3 software gives you a familiarMicrosoft Windows interface for test configuration and real-time data display and analysis. Evenbetter, the data logging application is included withevery standard Agilent 34970A.Powerful flexibility-to get-your job doneWhether you need to measure temperature,ac/dc volts, resistance, frequency, or current, the34970A can handle it. The internal autorangingDMM directly measures 11 different functions,eliminating the need for expensive external signalconditioning. And our unique design allows complete per-channel configurability for maximumflexibility and quick, easy set up. It’s-like havingan independent, high-performance DMM behindeach channel.3
More power and flexibilitythan you ever imagined you could affordIntuitive front panel: task-oriented,self-guiding menus6 1/2-digit (22-bit) internalDMM measures 11 functions withoutexternal signal conditioning50k readings of non-volatilememory holds data whenpower is removedMonitor displaymode lets youkeep an eye ontests in progressScaling function forconverting raw inputsinto user-defined unitsHI/LO alarm limits on each inputchannel, plus 4 TTL alarm outputs3-slot mainframeoffers up to 96 matrix crosspoints or120 single-ended channelsBattery-backed real-time clock-for pacingscans and timestamping readingsAgilent BenchLink Data Logger 3software included;drivers available for Agilent VEE andNational Instruments LabVIEW8 switch and controlplug-in modules tochoose fromBuilt-in GPIB and RS-232 interfaces4
The Agilent 34970A offers unequaled-versatilityfor your data acquisition applicationsIn the past, you had to make a choice. On the onehand, you could choose the simple operation andlow cost of a data logger. On the other hand, youhad the flexibility and higher performance ofa modular data acquisition system. The Agilent34970A Data Acquisition/Switch Unit gives youthe best of both worlds: a simple user interfacewith low per-channel cost, modular flexibility,and impressive measurement performance.Whether you’re an R&D engineer working on characterizing your latest design, or a manufacturingengineer building a test system or troubleshootinga process, the 34970A Data Acquisition/SwitchUnit offers the best combination of price and measurement performance.It’s a data-logger:Configured with a 20-channel relay multiplexer,the 34970A becomes a powerful, low-cost datalogger for simple characterization applications—one-that’s quick to set up and easy to run. Formore information on using the 34970A for data logging applications, see page 6.It’s a data acquisition front-end:The 34970A is an automated test system withexcellent measurement performance—it’s got theaccuracy, resolution, and speed you need. Seepage 8 for application information.It’s a switch system:Order the mainframe without the internal DMMand you’ve got an even lower cost, high-qualitysignal routing solution. See-page 10 for details.5
An easy-to-use data logger for-monitoringand characterization applicationsData loggers are used to monitor multiple signals(temperature, voltage, etc.) over extended periodsof time to identify irregularities. Example applications include environmental chamber monitoring,component inspection, benchtop testing, processtroubleshooting, and temperature profiling.The Agilent 34970A is easy to use for a-multitudeof data logging and monitoring applications, eitherstand-alone or with a computer. Its-flexible, modular design makes it-scalable from 20 to 120 channels, and lets you add actuator, digital I/O, andanalog output channels for simple control. Its smallsize and ruggedized features make it perfect forportable applications, and its small footprint makesit ideal for cramped benchtop testing. StandardGPIB (IEEE 488) and RS-232 interfaces let you program the instrument if you wish to automate tests.Simplify your data gathering-withAgilent-BenchLink Data-Logger 3 softwareDo you want PC-based data logging capability,but don’t want to spend hours programming?The BenchLink Data Logger 3 software is theanswer. This Windows-based application isdesigned to make it a snap to use your PC forgathering and analyzing measurements. Useit to set up your test, acquire and archive measurement data, and perform real-time displayand analysis of the incoming measurements.A familiar spreadsheet environment makes iteasy to configure and control your tests. Anda rich set of colorful graphics provides manyoptions for analyzing and displaying your data—all with point-and-click ease. Set up multiplegraphics using strip charts, histograms, bar andscatter charts, individual channel results, andmore. And of course you can use BenchLinkData Logger 3 to easily move data to other applications for further analysis, or for inclusion inyour presentations and reports.6Better measurements with-fewer hasslesTired of putting up with the mediocre measurement performance you get with most data loggersor plug-in data acquisition boards? The 34970Aoffers 61/2 digits of resolution and 0.004% basic1-year dcV accuracy.
And the 34970A measures and converts11 different input signals: temperature with thermocouples, RTDs,and thermistors dc and ac volts 2- and 4-wire resistance frequency and period dc and ac currentWhat’s more, each channel is independently configurable. This means you can configure channel 1for dcV, channel 2 for a K-type thermocouple,and channels 3 and 13 for a 4-wire RTD measurement— all on the same module, all in a single scan.For custom linear conversions, use the Mx B scaling function on any channel. You can even displaya custom 3-character engineering label like RPM orPSI to identify your measurement units.Versatile alarmsAlarms are available on a per-channel basis aswell. Enter a high limit, a low limit, or both. The34970A compares each reading to its limits andflags any out-of-range measurements. You canassign one of four TTL alarm outputs to any inputchannel to trigger external alarm lights, sirens,or send a TTL pulse to your control system, allwithout a PC connected.Scanning made-simpleThe 34970A automatically builds-a scan list thatincludes all configured inputs (even digital inputsfrom the Agilent 34907A multifunction module) inascending order by channel number. You can pacescans by setting the 34970A’s internal timer forautomatic scanning at a specific interval, by manually pressing a front-panel button, or by sending asoftware command or external TTL trigger pulse.Monitor any inputA special display mode monitors a-selected inputchannel, continuously updating the display withnew readings—even during a-scan. It’s great forkeeping an eye-on a key input, or for troubleshooting your system before-a test.Nonvolatile memory adds convenience, portabilityAll readings are automatically time-stamped andstored in a nonvolatile 50,000-reading memory—enough memory to hold more than a week’s worthof data (20 channels scanned every five minutes).The-nonvolatile memory holds your data even afterpower is removed, so you can use the 34970A tocollect data at a remote location for later uploading to a PC. And because the nonvolatile memoryalso holds your system configuration, if you losepower in the middle of a test, the 34970A resumesscanning when power is returned.Data Logging Feature Checklist From 1 to 120 channels of analog input Measurements include dc volts, ac volts,thermocouple, thermistor and RTDtemperature measurements, 2- and 4-wireOhms, dc current, ac current, frequency,and period 61/2 digits (22 bits) of resolution with0.004% basic 1-year dcV accuracy 50k reading nonvolatile memoryincluding timestamp Scaling and alarms available oneach channel Full-featured front panel for stand-aloneconfiguration, troubleshooting, anddata viewing BenchLink Data Logger 3 softwarefor configuration and data analysis Nonvolatile storage for five completeinstrument states7
A powerful, flexible data acquisition systemfor automated-testThe 34970A gives you the resolution, accuracy,repeatability, and speed you’ve come to expectfrom an Agilent data acquisition system. It providesthe measurement muscle you need, along withsignal routing and control capability, in a flexible,modular format that can grow and change to matchyour varied applications.Powerful measurementsThe internal 61/2 -digit DMM brings the power andperformance of a world-class stand-alone DMM tothe 34970A, but at a fraction of the cost and ina fraction of the space. It’s as accurate as the bestbench DMM available: 0.004% basic 1-year dcVaccuracy, 0.06% basic 1-year acV accuracy, and0.01% basic 1-year resistance accuracy. Our patented Multi-slope III A-D technology offers incrediblelinearity (2 ppm of reading 1 ppm of range) alongwith 22 bits of real resolution. And since it is anintegrating A/D, it provides excellent noise rejection as well—a-nice change from noisy PC plug-insand sampling A/Ds. No more averaging lots of samples just to see the real data you wanted. And-ifyou need high scan rates, the 34970A is capable ofdelivering fully converted measurements at speedsup to 250-ch/s.The input section of the DMM is optically isolatedand shielded from the 34970A’s earth-referencedcircuitry and computer interface, offering upto 300 V of input isolation. This is important forreducing ground loop and common mode voltageerrors associated with long wiring runs and floating measurement sources.8Flexible functionalityThe DMM is installed inside the chassis rather thanin one of the slots, leaving all three mainframeslots free for switch and control modules. You canchoose from eight different modules(see page 11) to get the precise functionality youneed now—while giving you flexibility for futureexpansion.The internal DMM gives you the flexibility to measure 11 types of inputs easily and inexpensively.The-built-in signal conditioning and conversionroutines turn raw inputs directly into real information. Each-measurement channel is independentlyconfigurable, so you can set different measurementfunctions, scale factors and alarm limits, evenon adjacent channels. Advanced measurement features such as offset compensation, variable integration time, and delay are also selectable on aper-channel basis.Get better measurements with built-insignal conditioningThe Agilent 34970A architecture offersadvantages over other data acquisition solutions which rely on external or plug-insignal conditioning modules for handlingfunctions other than dcV: Minimizes external wiring and theresultant potential for noise and errorsto enter your system Reduces hidden costs and overall systemcost by avoiding unnecessary cables,breakout boxes and signal conditioningelements Simplifies your configuration—for faster,easier setup—with fewer connectionsand components Takes the guesswork out of error analysis.Measurement accuracies are specified toinclude all system-related errors Improves reliability, with fewer interconnects and fewer parts that-can fail
Software driversYour months of test system software developmenttime need not go to waste. Software drivers thatsupport Agilent VEE and National InstrumentsLabView are available for the 34970A to makeintegration into your test system easy. StandardRS-232 and GPIB interfaces and SCPI programming language make integration even easier.ATE Feature Checklist 3-slot cardcage with 61/2 digit (22 bit)internal DMM 0.004% basic 1-year dcV accuracy; 0.06%acV accuracy Up to 120 single-ended measurementsor 96 matrix crosspoints in a 31/2" high,half-rack instrument Eight switch and control modules includelow-frequency and RF-multiplexers, matrixand actuation switches, digital input andoutput, analog output, and event recording Scan rates up to 250 ch/s GPIB and 115 kbaud RS-232 interfacesstandard Software drivers available to supportAgilent VEE and National-InstrumentsLabView Relay maintenance feature for systemmaintenanceCompact 60-channel data acquisition system9
Low-cost, high-quality switching forautomated testIf you don’t need the built-in measurementcapability of the 34970A, save money by orderingit without the DMM. What you end up with is thelowest-cost switch unit on the market. It’s an idealsolution for routing test signals to and from yourDUT and assorted instruments, including externalDMMs, scopes, counters, and power supplies. Plus,you can add the DMM later if your needs change.The functionality you needWe put a lot of thought into defining and designingthe modules for the 34970A in order to covera broad spectrum of switching and signal routing requirements with fewer modules. The result?Simplified ordering and easier configuration.Low-cost switching system for automated testing10And while we were at it, we improved performanceand density. The-34970A modules can switch frommicrovolts to 300-volts, dc to 2-GHz, and with densities as high as 120 single-ended channels or 96matrix crosspoints per frame. Plus, simple controlcapabilities like analog outputs, open collector digital outputs, and-isolated Form-C-relays for controlling higher-powered devices are available.Easy scanningThe 34970A can easily scan with external instruments. It builds a scan list that includes all enabledlow-frequency multiplexer inputs. Scans are controlled with the external “channel advance” input,or with the front panel “Step” key.
More channels in less spaceSurface mount construction and a highly integrated design minimize the space required forrelay drive and interface circuitry. High density onmodule connectors save both board and con-nectorspace normally required by a terminal block. Weuse the latest technology to squeezethe most out of the remaining board space,giving you up to 40 single-ended channels inroughly the same space used by many dataacquisition system terminal blocks.Customize your Agilent 34970A with-plug-inmodulesA complete selection of plug-in modules gives youhigh-quality measurement, switching, and controlcapabilities to choose from. Modules include bothlow-frequency and RF multiplexers, a matrix switch,a general-purpose switch, and a multifunctionmodule that includes digital input/output, analogoutput, and totalizer capabilities. You can mix andmatch modules to get just the functionality youneed right now—then change or add more channelslater as your application grows.Convenient connectionsOn-module screw-terminal connectors makewiring more convenient. Built-in strain-relief cablerouting and cable tie points keep your wiringsecure and safe from accidental tugs and pulls.An internal analog bus routes signals from anyof the low-frequency multiplexers directly tothe internal DMM, without the need for externalconnections.Modules for the 34970A are designed to make yourtesting easier, faster, and more reliable. Here’s how:Higher throughputOur unique architecture incorporates a highperformance microprocessor on each module, offloading the mainframe processor and minimizingbackplane communications for faster throughput.Use the chart below to help you pinpoint themodules that meet your needs.Agilent Modules-at-a-Glance Selection mpsBandwidth ThermalOffsetComments34901A20 ch Multiplexer2-wire armature(4-wire selectable)60300 V1A10 MHz 3 µVBuilt-in cold junction reference2 additional current channels (22 total) 1834902A16 ch Multiplexer2-wire reed(4-wire selectable)250300 V50 mA10 MHz 6 µVBuilt-in cold junction reference34903A20 ch Actuator/GP SwitchSPDT/form C12034904A4 x 8 Matrix2-wire armature34905ADual 4 ch RF Mux 50:Common Low(unterminated)6034906ADual 4 ch RF Mux 75:Common Low(unterminated)6034907AMultifunction ModuleTwo 8-bit digital I/O ports26-bit Event CounterTwo 16-bit Analog outputs34908A40 ch Single-Ended MuxPage19300 V1A10 MHz 3 µV20120300 V1A10 MHz 3 µV201-wire armature(common low)6042 V42 V0.7 A0.7 A2 GHz2 GHz42 V42 V 12 V400 mA10 mA100 KHzdc300 V1A10 MHz 6 µV 6 µV 3 µV1 GHz bandwidth throughBNC-to-SMB adapter cable211 GHz bandwidth throughBNC-to-SMB adapter cable21Open drainSelectable input thresholdMax 40 mA total output per frame22Built-in cold junction referenceNo four-wire measurements1911
Agilent QualityWe know you can’t afford instrument downtimedue to hardware failures and unscheduled maintenance. That’s why our engineers designed reliabilityinto the 34970A: A rugged enclosure, state-of-theart surface mount construction throughout, reducedparts counts, and rigorous and thorough testing onall aspects of the product.12Take the guesswork out of relay maintenanceThe 34970A uses our proprietary relay maintenance system to help you to predict relay end-oflife and avoid costly production-line downtime.It automatically counts every individual switchclosure and stores it in nonvolatile memory oneach module. You can query the total numberof cycles on any individual channel so you canschedule maintenance and avoid erratic end-oflife failures.
Spec Interpretation GuideThe following pages list the technical spec
The BenchLink Data Logger 3 software is the answer. This Windows-based application is designed to make it a snap to use your PC for gathering and analyzing measurements. Use it to set up your test, acquire and
