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
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Interfaces | GPIB (IEEE-488), RS-232 |
| Display | Alphanumeric VFD (Vacuum Fluorescent Display) |
| Programming Language | SCPI |
| Instrument State Storage | Up to 5 instrument states |
| Calibration | Closed-case electronic calibration |
Physical
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Power Supply | 100 / 120 / 220 / 240 V AC ±10%, 45 Hz to 66 Hz or 360 Hz to 440 Hz |
| Operating Temperature | 0 to 55 |
| Dimensions (W×H×D) | 212.8 × 88.3 × 348.3 (without bumpers) / 254.4 × 104.2 × 374.0 (with bumpers) |
| Weight | 3.6 |
System Overview
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Base DMM Resolution | 6 1/2 digits (22-bit) |
| Module Slots | 3 |
| Maximum Scanning Speed | 250 channels / second |
| Maximum Channel Capacity | 120 channels (with three 40-channel modules) |
| Internal Reading Memory | 50,000 readings (non-volatile) |
| Built-in Measurement Functions | 11 functions (AC/DC Volts, AC/DC Current, 2-wire/4-wire Resistance, Frequency, Period, Thermocouple, RTD, Thermistor) |
DC Measurement Characteristics
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| DC Voltage Ranges | 100 mV, 1 V, 10 V, 100 V, 300 V |
| DC Voltage Maximum Input | 300 V |
| DC Current Ranges | 10 mA, 100 mA, 1 A |
| Resistance Ranges | 100 Ω, 1 kΩ, 10 kΩ, 100 kΩ, 1 MΩ, 10 MΩ, 100 MΩ |
AC Measurement Characteristics
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| AC Voltage Ranges | 100 mV, 1 V, 10 V, 100 V, 300 V |
| AC Voltage Bandwidth | 3 Hz to 300 kHz |
| AC Current Ranges | 10 mA, 100 mA, 1 A |
Temperature Measurement Characteristics
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Thermocouple Types | B, E, J, K, N, R, S, T |
| RTD Types | 100 Ω Platinum |
| Thermistor Types | 2.252 kΩ, 5 kΩ, 10 kΩ |
Frequency and Period Characteristics
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Frequency Measurement Range | 3 Hz to 300 kHz |
Scanning and Triggering
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Alarm Outputs | 4 TTL alarm outputs |
| Alarm Limits per Channel | Hi / Lo alarm limits on each channel |
Plug-In Module Capabilities
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Plug-in Modules Available | 8 Optional Plug-in Modules |
| Module 34901A | 20-Channel Armature Multiplexer + 2 Current Channels (built-in thermocouple reference) |
| Module 34902A | 16-Channel Reed Multiplexer |
| Module 34903A | 20-Channel Actuator / General Purpose Switch |
| Module 34904A | 4 x 8 Matrix Switch |
| Module 34905A | Dual 4-Channel RF Multiplexer (50 Ω) |
| Module 34906A | Dual 4-Channel RF Multiplexer (75 Ω) |
| Module 34907A | Multifunction Module (Digital I/O, DAC, Totalizer) |
| Module 34908A | 40-Channel Single-Ended Multiplexer |
Interfaces and Connectivity
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Included Software | Agilent / Keysight BenchLink Data Logger |
General Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Warm-up Time | 1 hour |
Power
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Power Consumption | 12 W (25 VA peak) |
| Power Line Frequency | 45 Hz to 66 Hz and 360 Hz to 440 Hz (automatically sensed) |
Performance
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Maximum Common Mode Voltage | 300 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
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Storage Temperature | -40 °C to +70 °C |
| Operating Humidity | Up to 80% RH at 40 °C |
Compliance
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Safety Compliance | CSA, UL-1244, IEC 1010-1 |
Measurement & Math
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Scaling Function | Mx + B |
| Real-Time Clock | Battery-backed (used for timestamping) |
Triggering
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Trigger Sources | Interval Timer, External, Bus, Front Panel |
Technology
Data Acquisition
Applications
Data Logging, Automated Test Equipment (ATE), Industrial Monitoring