The Keysight (formerly Agilent / HP) 34970A is a highly versatile and widely used 3-slot data acquisition / data logger switch unit. It features a built-in 6½-digit (22-bit) digital multimeter, providing precision measurements for up to 11 distinct functions, including temperature, DC/AC voltage, resistance, frequency, and current. With a capacity to scan up to 250 channels per second and support for eight interchangeable plug-in modules, the 34970A is easily configurable for varied applications ranging from simple benchtop data logging to complex automated test systems. Its non-volatile memory can store up to 50,000 readings, ensuring data is retained even when power is removed.

Specifications

General

ParameterValue
InterfacesGPIB (IEEE-488), RS-232
DisplayAlphanumeric VFD (Vacuum Fluorescent Display)
Programming LanguageSCPI
Instrument State StorageUp to 5 instrument states
CalibrationClosed-case electronic calibration

Physical

ParameterValue
Power Supply100 / 120 / 220 / 240 V AC ±10%, 45 Hz to 66 Hz or 360 Hz to 440 Hz
Operating Temperature0 to 55
Dimensions (W×H×D)212.8 × 88.3 × 348.3 (without bumpers) / 254.4 × 104.2 × 374.0 (with bumpers)
Weight3.6

System Overview

ParameterValue
Base DMM Resolution6 1/2 digits (22-bit)
Module Slots3
Maximum Scanning Speed250 channels / second
Maximum Channel Capacity120 channels (with three 40-channel modules)
Internal Reading Memory50,000 readings (non-volatile)
Built-in Measurement Functions11 functions (AC/DC Volts, AC/DC Current, 2-wire/4-wire Resistance, Frequency, Period, Thermocouple, RTD, Thermistor)

DC Measurement Characteristics

ParameterValue
DC Voltage Ranges100 mV, 1 V, 10 V, 100 V, 300 V
DC Voltage Maximum Input300 V
DC Current Ranges10 mA, 100 mA, 1 A
Resistance Ranges100 Ω, 1 kΩ, 10 kΩ, 100 kΩ, 1 MΩ, 10 MΩ, 100 MΩ

AC Measurement Characteristics

ParameterValue
AC Voltage Ranges100 mV, 1 V, 10 V, 100 V, 300 V
AC Voltage Bandwidth3 Hz to 300 kHz
AC Current Ranges10 mA, 100 mA, 1 A

Temperature Measurement Characteristics

ParameterValue
Thermocouple TypesB, E, J, K, N, R, S, T
RTD Types100 Ω Platinum
Thermistor Types2.252 kΩ, 5 kΩ, 10 kΩ

Frequency and Period Characteristics

ParameterValue
Frequency Measurement Range3 Hz to 300 kHz

Scanning and Triggering

ParameterValue
Alarm Outputs4 TTL alarm outputs
Alarm Limits per ChannelHi / Lo alarm limits on each channel

Plug-In Module Capabilities

ParameterValue
Plug-in Modules Available8 Optional Plug-in Modules
Module 34901A20-Channel Armature Multiplexer + 2 Current Channels (built-in thermocouple reference)
Module 34902A16-Channel Reed Multiplexer
Module 34903A20-Channel Actuator / General Purpose Switch
Module 34904A4 x 8 Matrix Switch
Module 34905ADual 4-Channel RF Multiplexer (50 Ω)
Module 34906ADual 4-Channel RF Multiplexer (75 Ω)
Module 34907AMultifunction Module (Digital I/O, DAC, Totalizer)
Module 34908A40-Channel Single-Ended Multiplexer

Interfaces and Connectivity

ParameterValue
Included SoftwareAgilent / Keysight BenchLink Data Logger

General Specifications

ParameterValue
Warm-up Time1 hour

Power

ParameterValue
Power Consumption12 W (25 VA peak)
Power Line Frequency45 Hz to 66 Hz and 360 Hz to 440 Hz (automatically sensed)

Performance

ParameterValue
Maximum Common Mode Voltage300 V DC or AC rms (to earth ground)
Common Mode Rejection Ratio (CMRR)140 dB (DC, 1 kΩ unbalance)
Normal Mode Rejection Ratio (NMRR)60 dB (at 50/60 Hz)

Environmental

ParameterValue
Storage Temperature-40 °C to +70 °C
Operating HumidityUp to 80% RH at 40 °C

Compliance

ParameterValue
Safety ComplianceCSA, UL-1244, IEC 1010-1

Measurement & Math

ParameterValue
Scaling FunctionMx + B
Real-Time ClockBattery-backed (used for timestamping)

Triggering

ParameterValue
Trigger SourcesInterval Timer, External, Bus, Front Panel

Technology

Data Acquisition

Applications

Data Logging, Automated Test Equipment (ATE), Industrial Monitoring