Agilent Technologies 34401A User Manual

Agilent 34401A 6 ½ Digit Multimeter

User’s Guide

Agilent Technologies

Notices

No p art o f this manual may be rep roduc ed in any form or by any means (including electronic storage and retrieval or translation into a foreign language) without prior agreement and written consent from Agilent Technologies, Inc. as governed by United States and international copyright laws.

Manual Part Number

34401-90004

Edition

Seventh Editio n. August 2007

Printed in Malaysia

Agilent Technologies, Inc. 3501 Stevens Creek Blvd. Santa Clara, CA 95052 USA

Microsoft® and Windows® are U.S. registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.

Software Revision

This guide is valid for the firmware that was installed in the instrument at the time of manufacture. However, upgrading the firmware may add or change product features. For the latest firmware and documentation, go to the product page at:

www.agilent.com/find/34401A

Warranty

The material contained in this document is provided “as is,” and is subject to being changed, without notice, in future editions. Furt her, to the maximum extent permitted by applicable law, Agilent disclaims all warranties, either express or implied, with regard to this manual and any information contained herein, including but not limited to the implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. Agilent shall not be liable for errors or for incidental or consequential damages in connection with the furnishing, use, or performance of this document or of any information contained herein. Should Agilent and the user have a separate written agreement with warranty terms covering the material in this document that conflict with these terms, the warranty terms in the separate agreement shall control.

Technology Licenses

The hardware and/or software described in this document are furnished under a license and may be used or copied only in accordance with the terms of such license.

Restricted Rights Legend

U.S. Government Restricted Rights. Software and technical data rights granted to the federal government include only those rights customarily provided to end user customers. Agilent provides this customary commercial license in Software and technical data pursuant to FAR 12.211 (Technical Data) and 12.212 (Computer Software) and, for the Department of Defense, DFARS

252.227-7015 (Technical Data - Commercial Items) and DFARS 227.7202-3 (Rights in Commercial Computer Software or Computer Software Documentation).

Safety Notices

CAUTION

A CAUTION notice denotes a haz- ard. It calls attention to an operating procedure, practice, or the like that, if not correctly performed or adhered to, could result in damage to the product or loss of important data. Do not proceed beyond a CAUTION notice until the indicated conditions are fully understood and met.

WARNING

A WARNING notice denotes a hazard. It calls attention to an operating procedure, practice, or the like that, if not correctly performed or adhered to, could result in personal injury or death. Do not proceed beyond a WARNING notice until the indicated conditions are fully understood and met.

ii 34401A User’s Guide

Safety Information

General

Do not use this product in any manner not specified by the manufacturer. The protective features of this product may be impaired if it is used in a manner not specified in the operation instructions.

Do not install substitute parts or perform any unauthorized modification to the product. Return the product to an Agilent Technologi es Sales and S ervice Office for service and repair to ensure that safety features are maintained.

Ground the Instrument

If your product is provided with a grounding-type power plug, the instrument chassis and cover must be connected to an electrical ground to minimize shock hazard. The ground pin must be firmly connected to an electrical ground (safety ground) terminal at the power outlet. Any interruption of the protective (grounding) conductor or disconnection of the protective earth terminal will cause a potential shock hazard that could result in personal injury.

Cleaning

Clean the outside of the instrument with a soft, lint-free, slightly dampened cloth. Do not use detergent or chemical solvents.

Safety Symbols

Earth Ground

Chassis Ground

Risk of electric shock

Refer to manual for additional safety information

Alternating Current

On supply

Off supply

‘In’ position of bi-stable push switch

‘Out’ position of bi-stable push switch

CAT II (300V)

IEC Measurement Category II. Inputs may be connected to mains (up to 300 VAC) under Category II overvoltage conditions.

WARNING

Main Power and Test Input Disconnect: Unplug instrument from wall outlet, remove power cord, and remove all probes from all terminals before servicing. Only qualified, service-trained personnel should remove the cover from the instrument.

WARNING

Line and Current Protection Fuses: For continued protection against fire, replace the line fuse and the current-protection fuse only with fuses of the specified type and rating.

WARNING

Front/Rear Switch: Do not change the position of the Front/Rear switch on the front panel while signals are present on either the front or rear set of terminals. The switch is not intended as an active multiplexer. Switching while high voltages or currents are present may cause instrument damage and lead to the risk of electric shock.

34401A User’s Guide iii

WARNING

IEC Measurement Category II. The HI and LO input terminals may be connected to mains in IEC Category II installations for line voltages up to 300 VAC. To avoid the danger of electric shock, do not connect the inputs to mains for line voltages above 300 VAC. See "IEC Measurement Category II Overvoltage Protection" on the following page for further information.

WARNING

Protection Limits: To avoid instrument damage and the risk of electric shock, do not exceed any of the Protection Limits defined in the following section.

Protection Limits

The Agilent 34401A Digital Multimeter provides protection circuitry to prevent damage to the instrument and to protect against the danger of electric shock, provided the Protection Limits are not exceeded. To ensure safe operation of the instrument, do not exceed the Protection Limits shown on the front and rear panel, and defined as follows:

Note: The front-panel terminals are shown above. The rear-panel terminals are identical. The Front/Rear switch selects the terminal set to be used. Do not operate this

switch while signals are pr esent on the front or rear terminals. The current-protec-

tion fuse is on the rear panel.

Input Terminal Protection Limits

Protection Limits are defined for the input terminals:

Main Input (HI and LO) Terminals. The HI and LO input terminals are used for voltage, resistance, frequency (period), an d diode test measurements. Two Protection Limits are defined for these terminals:

HI to LO Protection Limit. The Protection Limit from HI to LO (Input terminals) is 1000 VDC or 750 VAC, which is also the maximum voltage measurement. This limit can also be expressed as 1000 Vpk maximum.

LO to Ground Protection Limit. The LO input terminal can safely "float" a maximum of 500 Vpk relative to ground.

As is implied by the above limits, the Protection Limit for the HI input terminal is a maximum of 1500 Vpk relative to ground.

Current Input Terminal. The current input ("I") terminal has a Protection Limit of 3A (rms) maximum current flowing from the LO input terminal. Note that the current input terminal will be at approximately the same voltage as the LO terminal.

Note: The current-protection circuitry includes a fuse on the rear panel. To maintain protection, replace this fuse only with a fuse of the specified type and rating.

Sense Terminal Protection Limits

The HI and LO sense terminals are used only for four-wire resistance and temperature measurements (" tion Limit is 200 Vpk for all of the terminal pairings:

LO sense to LO input

HI sense to LO input

HI sense to LO sense

Note: The 200 Vpk limit on the sense terminals is the Protection Limit. Operational voltages in resistance measurements are much lower — less than 10 V in normal operation.

Ω 4W"). The Protec-

IEC Measurement Category II Overvoltage Protection

To protect against the danger of electric shock, the Agilent 34401A Digital Multimeter provides overvoltage protection for line-voltage mains connections meeting both of the following conditions:

The HI and LO input terminals are connected to the mains under Measurement Category II conditions, defined below,

The mains are limited to a maximum line voltage of 300 VAC.

and

iv 34401A User’s Guide

IEC Measurement Category II includes electrical devices connected to mains at an outlet on a branch circuit. Such devices include most small appliances, test equipment, and other devices that plug into a branch outlet or socket. The 34401A may be used to make measurements with the HI and LO inputs connected to mains in such devices, or to the branch outlet itself (up to 300 VAC). However, the 34401A may not be used with its HI and LO inputs connected to mains in permanently installed electrical devices such as the main circuit-breaker panel, sub-panel disconnect boxes, or permanently wired motors. Such devices and circuits are subject to overvoltages that may exceed the protection limits of the 34401A.

Note: Voltages above 300 VAC may be measured only in circuits that are isolated from mains. However, transient overvoltages are also present on circuits that are isolated from mains. The A gilent 34401A are designed to safely withstand occasional transient overvoltages up to 2500 Vpk. Do not use this equipment to measure circuits where transi ent overvoltages could exceed this level.

Additional Notices

Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive 2002/96/EC

This product complies with the WEEE Directive (2002/96/EC) marking requirement. The affixed product label (see below) indicates that you must not discard this electrical/electronic product in domestic household waste.

Product Category: With reference to the equipment types in the WEEE directive Annex 1, this product is classified as a "Monitoring and Contr ol instrumentation" product.

Do not dispose in domestic household waste.

To return unwanted products, contact your local Agilent office, or see www.agilent.com/environment/product for more information.

Agilent 34138A Test Lead Set

The Agilent 34401A is compatible with the Agilent 34138A Test Lead Set described below.

Test L e a d Ra t i n g s

Test Leads - 1000V, 15A

Fine Tip Probe Attachments - 300V, 3A

Mini Grabber Attachment - 300V, 3A

SMT Grabber Attachments - 300V, 3A

Operation

The Fine Tip, Mini Grabber, and SMT Grabber attachments plug onto the probe end of the Test Leads.

Maintenance

If any portion of the Test Lead Set is worn or damaged, do not use. Replace with a new Agilent 34138A Test Lead Set.

WARNING

If the Test Lead Set is used in a manner not specified by Agilent Technologies, the protection provided by the Test Lead Set may be impaired. Also, do not use a damaged or worn Test Lead Set. Instrument damage or personal injury may result.

34401A User’s Guide v

DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY

According to ISO/IEC Guide 22 and CEN/CENELEC EN 45014

Manufacturer’s Name: Manufacturer’s Address:

Agilent Technologies, Incorporated 815 – 14th St. SW Loveland, Colorado 80537 USA

Declares, that the product

Product Name: Model Number:

Multimeter 34401A

Product Options: This declaration covers all options of the above product(s).

Conforms with the following European Directives:

The product herewith complies with the requirements of the Low Voltage Directive 73/23/EEC and the EMC Directive 89/336/EEC (including 93/68/EEC) and carries the CE Marking accordingly.

Conforms with the following product standards: EMC Standard

IEC 61326-1:1997+A1:1998 / EN 61326-1:1997+A1:1998 CISPR 11:1990 / EN 55011:1991 IEC 61000-4-2:1995+A1:1998 / EN 61000-4-2:1995 IEC 61000-4-3:1995 / EN 61000-4-3:1995 IEC 61000-4-4:1995 / EN 61000-4-4:1995 IEC 61000-4-5:1995 / EN 61000-4-5:1995 IEC 61000-4-6:1996 / EN 61000-4-6:1996 IEC 61000-4-11:1994 / EN 61000-4-11:1994

Canada: ICES-001:1998 Australia/New Zealand: AS/NZS 2064.1

Limit

Group 1 Class A 4kV CD, 8kV AD 3 V/m, 80-1000 MHz

0.5kV signal lines, 1kV power lines

0.5 kV line-line, 1 kV line-ground 3V, 0.15-80 MHz Dips: 30% 10ms; 60% 100ms Interrupt > 95%@5000ms

The product was tested in a typical configuration with Agilent Technologies test systems.

Safety

IEC 61010-1:1990+A1:1992+A2:1995 / EN 61010-1:1993+A2:1995 Canada: CSA C22.2 No. 1010.1:1992 UL 3111-1: 1994

18 July 2001

Date

Ray Corson

Product Regulations Program Manager

Authorized EU-representative: Agilent Technologies Deutschland GmbH, Herrenberger Straβe 130, D 71034 Böblingen, Germany

For further information, please contact your local Agilent Technologies sales office, agent or distributor.

Note: Unless ot h erwise indicat ed, this manual applies to all Seri al N umbers.

The Agilent Technologies 34401A is a 6

⁄

-digit, high-performance

digital multimeter. Its co m bination o f bench-to p and syste m featur e s makes this multimeter a versatile solution for y our m easurement n eeds now and in the future.

Convenient Bench-Top Features

• Highly visible vacuum-fluorescent display

• Built-in math operations

• Continuity and diode test functions

• Hands-free, Reading Hold fea ture

• Portable, ruggedized case with non-skid feet

Flexible System Features

• GPIB (IEEE-488) interface and RS-232 interface

• Standard programming languages: SCPI, Agilent 3478A, and

Fluke 8840

• Reading rates up to 1000 readings per second

• Storage for up to 512 readings

• Limit testing with pass/fail signals

• Optional 34812A BenchLink/Meter Software for Microsoft

Windows

Agilent 34401A Multimeter

The Front Panel at a Glance

1 Measurement Function keys 2 Math Operation keys 3 Single Trigger / Autotrigger / Reading Hold key 4 Shift / Local key

5 Front / Rear Input Terminal Switch 6 Range / Number of Digits Displayed keys 7 Menu Operation keys

The Front-Panel Menu at a Glance

The menu is organized in a top -d own tree structure with three levels.

A: MEASurement MENU

1: AC FILTER > 2: CONTINUITY > 3: INPUT R > 4: RATIO FUNC > 5: RESOLUTION

B: MATH MENU

1: MIN-MAX > 2: NULL VALUE > 3: dB REL > 4: dBm REF R > 5: LIMIT TEST > 6: HIGH LIMIT > 7: LOW LIMIT

C: TRIGger ME N U

1: READ HOLD > 2: TRIG DELAY > 3: N SAMPLES

D: SYStem MENU

1: RDGS STORE > 2: SAVED RDGS > 3: ERROR > 4: TEST > 5: DISPLAY > 6: BEEP > 7: COMMA > 8: REVISION

E: Input / Output MENU

1: GPIB ADDR > 2: INTERFACE > 3: BAUD RATE > 4: PARITY > 5: LANGUAGE

F: CALibration MENU

1: SECURED > [ 1: UNSECURED ] > [ 2: CALIBRATE ] > 3: CAL COUNT > 4: MESSAGE

The commands enclosed in square brackets ( [ ] ) are “hidden” unless the multimeter

is UNSECURED for calibration.

Display Annunciators

∗

Adrs Rmt Man Trig Hold Mem Ratio Math ERROR Rear Shift 4W

Turns on during a measurement. Multimeter is addressed to listen or talk over the GPIB interface. Multimeter is in remote mode (remote interface). Multimeter is using manual ranging (autorange is disabled). Multimeter is waiting for a single trigger or external trigger. Reading Hold is enabled. Turns on when reading memory is enabled. Multimeter is in dcv:dcv ratio function. A math operation is enabled (null, min-max, dB, dBm, or limit test ). Hardware or remote interface command errors are detected. Rear input terminals are selected. “Shift” key has been pressed. Multimeter is in 4-wire ohms function. Multimeter is in continuity test function. Multimeter is in diode test function.

Press “Shif t” again to turn off.

To review the display annunciators, hold down the Shift key as you turn on the multimeter.

The Rear Panel at a Glance

1 Chassis Ground 2 Power-Line Fuse-Holder Assembly 3 Power-Line Voltage Setting 4 Front and Rear Current Input Fuse

5 Voltmeter Complete Output Terminal 6 External Trigger Input Terminal 7 GPIB (IEEE-488) Interface connector 8 RS-232 interface connector

Use the front-panel Input / Output Menu to:

• Select the GPIB or RS-232 interface (see chapter 4).

• Set the GPIB bus address (see chapter 4).

• Set the RS-232 baud rate and parity (see chapter 4).

In This Book

Quick Start Chapter 1 prepares the multimeter for use and helps you get familiar with a few of its front-panel features.

Front-Panel Menu Operation Chapter 2 introduces you to the front-panel menu and describes some of t he mu ltimeter’s menu fea tur es.

Features and Functions Chapter 3 gives a detailed description of the multimeter’s capabilities and operation. You will find this chapter useful whether you are oper ating the multimeter from the front panel or over the remote in t er fac e.

Remote Interface Reference Chapter 4 contains reference information to help you program th e m ultimeter over t he rem ote interface.

Error Messages Chapter 5 lists the error messages that may appear as you are working with the multimeter. Each listing contains enough information to help you diagnose and solve the problem.

Application Programs Chapter 6 contains several remote interface application programs to help you develop programs for your measurement application.

Measurement Tutorial Chapt er 7 discus ses measurement considera ti ons an d te chn iq u es to hel p you obt ai n the bes t acc u rac ies and reduce sources of measurement error.

Specifications Chapter 8 lists the multimeter’s specifications and describes how to interpret these specifications.

If you have questions relating to the operation of the Agilent 34401A, call 1-800-452-4844 in the United States, or contact your nearest Agilent Sal es Of fic e .

If your 34401A fails within one year of purchase, Agilent will repair or replace it free of charge. Call 1-877-444-7278 (“ Agile nt Expr ess”) in th e United States, or c ontact you r neare st Agilen t Sales O ffice.

Chapter 1 Quick Start

To Prepare th e Multimeter for Use 13 If the Multi meter Does Not Turn On 14 To Adjust the Carrying Handle 16 To Measure Volt ag e 17 To Measure Resis tan ce 17 To Measur e Cu rr en t 18 To Measure Frequency (or Period) 18 To Test Continuity 19 To Check Di ode s 19 To Select a Range 20 To Set th e R e s olu t i on 21 Front-Panel Display Formats 22 To Rack Mount the Multimeter 23

Chapter 2 Front-Panel Menu Operation

Front-Panel Menu Reference 27 A Front-Panel Menu Tutorial 29 To Turn Off the Comma Separator 37 To Make Null (Relative) Measurements 38 To Store Mi nimum and Maximum Rea dings 39 To Make dB Measurements 40 To Make dBm Measurements 41 To Trigger the Multimeter 42 To Use Reading Hold 43 To Make dcv :d cv R at io Measurements 44 To Use Reading Memory 46

Chapter 3 Features and Functions

Measurement Configura ti on

AC Signal Filter 51 Continuity Threshold Resistance 52 DC Input Resistance 53 Resolution 54 Integration Time 57 Front / Rear Input Terminal Switching 58 Autozero 59 Ranging 60

Contents

Chapter 3 Features and Functions (continued)

Math Operations

Min-Max Operation 64 Null (Relative) Operation 65 dB Measurements 67 dBm Measurements 68 Limit Testing 69

Triggering

Trigger Source Choices 73 The Wait-for-Trigger State 76 Halting a Measurement in Progress 76 Number of Sample s 77 Number of Trigger s 78 Trigger Delay 79 Automatic Trigger Delays 81 Reading Hold 82 Voltmeter Complete Terminal 83 External Trigger Terminal 83

System-Related Operations

Reading Memory 84 Error Conditions 85 Self-Test 86 Display Control 87 Beeper Control 88 Comma Separators 89 Firmware Revision Query 89 SCPI Language Version Query 9 0

Remote Inte r face Configura tion

GPIB Address 91 Remote Int erf a ce Selection 92 Baud Rate Selection (RS -23 2) 93 Parity Selection (RS-232) 93 Programming Language Selection 94

Calibration

Calibration Security 95 Calibration Count 98 Calibration Message 99

Operator Maintenance

To Replace the Power-Line Fuse 100 To Replace the C urrent Input Fuses 100 Power-On and Reset State 101

Contents

Chapte r 4 Remote Interface Reference

Command Su mmary 10 5 Simplified Prog r a m m in g O v erview 112 The MEASure? and CONFigure Commands 117 Measurement Conf iguration Commands 121 Math Operat ion Commands 124 Triggering 127 Triggering Commands 130 System-Rel ate d Commands 132 The SCPI Status Model 134 Status Rep orting Commands 144 Calibration C om ma n ds 146 RS-232 Interface Configuration 148 RS-232 Interf ace Commands 153 An Introd uct ion to the SCPI L an gu age 154 Output Data Formats 159 Using Device Clear to Halt Measurements 160 TALK ONLY for Printers 160 To Set the GPIB Addres s 161 To Select the R em ote Interface 162 To Set th e B au d Rate 163 To Set th e P arity 164 To Select the Programming Language 165 Alternate Programming Language Compatibility 166 SCPI Complianc e I nfo rmation 168 IEEE-488 Compliance Information 169

Contents

Chapter 5 Error Messages

Execution Errors 173 Self-Test Errors 179 Calibration E rr ors 180

Chapter 6 Application Programs

Using MEA Sure? for a Single Measur ement 185 Using CONFigure with a Math O p eration 186 Using the S tat us R eg is te rs 188 RS-232 Operation Using Quic kBASIC 192 RS-232 Operation Using Turbo C 193

Contents

Chapte r 7 Measurement Tutorial

Thermal EMF Errors 199 Loading Errors (dc volts) 199 Leakage Current Errors 199 Rejecting Power-Line Noise Voltages 200 Common Mode Rejection (CMR) 201 Noise Caused by Magnetic Loops 201 Noise Caused by Ground Loops 202 Resistance Measur ements 20 3 4-Wire Ohms Meas ur em ents 203 Removing Test Lead Res istance Errors 204 Power Dissipat ion Effects 204 Settling T im e E f fec ts 204 Errors in High Resistance Measureme n ts 205 DC Curr en t Measurement Er rors 205 True RMS AC Measurements 206 Crest Fa ct or Errors 207 Loadi ng Errors (ac volts ) 209 Measurem ents Below Full Scale 210 High-Voltage Self-Heating Errors 210 Temperature Coefficient and Overl oad Errors 210 Low-Level Measurement Errors 211 Common Mode Errors 212 AC Current Measurement Errors 212 Frequency and P eri od M easurement Errors 213 Making H ig h- Speed DC and Resistance Measu rem ents 213 Making High - Sp eed AC M eas u r em en t s 214

Chapter 8 Specifications

DC Character is tic s 216 AC Character is tic s 218 Frequency and Peri od Ch aracteristics 220 General Information 222 Product Dimensions 223 To Calcula te Tot a l M eas urement Error 224 Interpreting Multimeter S pec ifications 226 Configur in g f or H ig h est Accuracy Meas u rements 229

Index 231

Declaration of Conformity 237

Quick Start

One of the first things you will want to do with your multimeter is to become acquainted with its front panel. We have written the exercises in this chapter to prepare the multimeter for use and help you g et familiar with some of its front-panel operations.

The front panel has two rows of keys to select various functions and operations. Most ke ys have a shifted function printed in blue above the key. To perform a shifted function, press annunciator will turn on). Then, press the key that has the desired label above it. For example, to select the dc current function,

Shift DC V .

press

Shift (the Shift

If you accident a l ly press

Shift annunciato r.

The rear cover of this bo ok is a fold -out Qu ick Re feren ce Gu ide. On t his cover you will fi nd a quick summary of various multi m eter feature s.

Shift , just press it again to turn off the

Chapter 1 Quick Start

To Prepare the Multimeter for Use

The following steps help you verify that the multimeter is ready for use.

1 Check the list of supplied ite ms.

Verify that you have received the following items with your multimeter. If anyt hi ng i s mi s si ng , contact your n e ar e st A gilent Sales Of fi ce .

One test lead kit. One power cord. This User’s Guide. One Service Guide. One folded Quick Reference card. Certificate of Calibration.

2 Connect the power cord a nd turn on the multimeter.

The front-panel display will light up while the multimeter performs its power-on self-test. The multimeter powers up in the dc voltage function with autoranging enabled.

To review the power-on display with all annunciators turned on, hold down

3Perform a complete self-test.

The complete self-test per for m s a mor e ex ten sive s er ies of tests than those performed at power-on. Hold down Power switch to turn on the multimeter; hold down the key for more than 5 seconds. The self-test will begin when you release the key.

If the self-test is successful, “ not successful, “ See the Service Guide for instructions on returning the multimeter to Agilent for service.

Shift as you turn on the multi met e r.

FAIL” is displayed and the ERROR annunciator turns on.

GPIB bus address is displayed. Notice that the

Shift as you press the

PASS” is displayed. If the self-test is

Chapter 1 Quick Start

If the Multimeter Does Not Turn On

Use the following steps to help solve problems you might encounter when turning on the multimeter. If you need more help, see the Service Gui de for instructions on returning the multimeter to Agilent for service.

1 Verify that there is ac power to the multimeter.

First, verify that the multimeter’s Power switch is in the “On” position. Also, make sure that the power cord is firmly plugged into the power module on the rear panel. You shou ld als o mak e sure t hat t h e pow er source you plugged the multimeter into is energized.

2 Verify the power-line voltage setting.

The line voltage i s set to the pr oper valu e for yo ur co un tr y when the multimeter is shipped from the factory. Change the volta g e set ti ng if it is not correct. The settings are: 100, 120, 220, or 240 Vac (for 230 Vac operation, use the 220 Vac setting).

See the next page if you need to change the line-voltage setting.

3 Verify that the power-line fuse is good.

The multimeter is shipped from the factory with a 250 mA fuse installed. This is the correct fuse for all line voltages.

See the next page if you need to replace the power-line fuse.

To replace the 250 mAT fuse, order Agilent part number 2110-0817.

Chapter 1 Quick Start

If the Multimeter Does Not Turn On

1 Remove the power cord. Remove the

fuse-holder assembly from the rear panel.

3 Rotate the line-voltage selector until the

correct voltage appears in the window.

2 Remove the line-voltage selector from

the assembly.

See rear panel for proper fuse rating.

Agilent Part Number: 2110-0817 (250 mAT)

4 Replace the fuse-h ol de r as sem bly in the rear panel.

100, 120, 220 (230) or 240 Vac

Verify that the correct line voltage is selected and the power-line fuse is good.

Chapter 1 Quick Start

To Adjust the Carrying Handle

To adjust the position, grasp the handle by the sides and pu ll outward. Then, rotate the handle to the desired position.

Bench-top viewing positions Carrying position

Chapter 1 Quick Start

To Measure Voltage

Ranges: 100 mV, 1 V, 10 V, 100 V, 1000 V (750 Vac) Maximum resolution: 100 nV (on 100 mV range) AC technique: true

RMS, ac-coupled

To Measure Resistance

Ranges: 100 Ω, 1 kΩ, 10 kΩ, 100 kΩ, 1 MΩ, 10 MΩ, 100 MΩ Maximum resolution: 100 µΩ (on 100 ohm range)

Chapter 1 Quick Start

To Measure Current

Ranges: 10 mA (dc only), 100 mA (dc only), 1 A , 3 A Maximum resolution: 10 nA (on 10 mA range) AC technique: true

RMS, ac-coupled

To Measure Frequency (or Period)

Measurement band: 3 Hz to 300 kHz (0.33 sec to 3.3 µsec) Input signal range: 100 mVac to 750 Vac Techniqu e: reciprocal co unt ing

Chapter 1 Quick Start

To Test Continuity

Test current source: 1 mA Maximum resolution: 0.1 Ω (rang e i s fi xed at 1 kohm) Beeper threshold: 1 Ω to 1000 Ω (beeps below adjustable threshold)

To Check Diodes

Test current source: 1 mA Maximum resolution: 100 µV (range is fix ed at 1 Vdc) Beeper threshold: 0.3 volts ≤ V

measured

≤ 0.8 volts (not adjus table)

Chapter 1 Quick Start

To Select a Range

You can let the multimeter automatically select the range using autoranging or you can select a fixed range using manual ranging.

Selects a lower range and disables autoranging.

Selects a higher range and disables autoranging.

Man annu nci ator is on when manual range is enabl ed.

Toggles betwee n aut or anging and manual ranging.

• Autoranging is selecte d at power-on a nd a ft e r a re m o t e i nt e rfa ce reset.

• Autorange t h re sholds:

Down range at <1 0 % of range Up range at >120% of range

• If the input signal is greater than the present range can measure,

the multimeter will give an overload indication (“

• For frequency and period measurements from the front panel,

OVLD”).

ranging applies to the signal’s input voltage, not its frequency.

• The range is fixed for co ntin u it y (1 kΩ range) and diode (1 Vdc rang e).

Ranging is local to the selected function. This means that you can select the ranging method (auto or manual) for each function independently. When manually ranging, the selected ran ge is local t o th e fu nction ; the multimeter remembers the range when you switch between functions.

Chapter 1 Quick Start

To Set the Resolution

You can set the display resolution to 4

⁄

, 5

⁄

, or 6

⁄

digits either to

optimize measur em ent spe ed or nois e reje ction. In this book, th e most significant digit (leftmost on the display) is referred to as the “

⁄

” digit,

since it can only be a “0” or “1.”

Press the Shift key .

Sele cts 4

⁄2 digits.

Selects 5

⁄2 digits.

Selects 61⁄2 digits (most noise rejection).

• The resolution is set to 5

⁄

digits at power-on and after a remote

interface reset.

• The resolution is fixed at 5

• You can also vary the number of digits displayed using the arrow keys

⁄

digits for continuity and diode tests.

(however, the integration time is not changed).

Fewer More Digits Digits

Resolutio n is local to t he selected func tion. This means t hat you can select the r esolutio n for each fun ction inde pendently. T he multime ter remembers the resolution when you switch between functions.

5 digits

Chapter 1 Quick Start

Front-Panel Display Formats

Front-Pan el Display Formats

– Negative sign or blank (positive)

H “

-H.DDD,DDD EFFF

Front-pa ne l display form a t.

10.216,5 VDC

D Numeric digits E Exponent ( m, k, M ) F Measurement units ( VDC, OHM, HZ, dB )

⁄2 ” digit (0 or 1)

“1⁄2” digi t

“1⁄2” digit

This is the 10 Vdc range, 5

⁄

digits are displayed.

-045.23 mVDC

This is the 100 mVdc range, 4

⁄

digits are displayed.

113.325,6 OHM

This is the 100 ohm range, 6

⁄

digits are displayed.

OVL.D mVDC

This is an overload indication on the 100 mV dc range.

Chapter 1 Quick Start

To Rack Mount the Multimeter

You can mount the multi m eter in a standard 1 9 -inch rack cabinet using one of three optional kits available. Instr uction s and m ounting h ardw are are included with each r ack-mou nting kit . Any instrument of the same size can be rack-mounted beside the 34401A.

Remove the carrying handle, and the front and rear rubber bumpers, before rack- m ounting the multi m eter.

Agilent System II

To remove the handle, rotate it to the vertical position and pull the ends outward.

Fron t

To remove the rubber bumper, stretch a corner and then slide it off.

Rear (bottom view)

Chapter 1 Quick Start

To Rack Mount the Multimeter

To rack mount a single instrument, order adapter kit 5063-9240.

To rack mount two instruments side-by-side, order lock-link kit 5061-9694 and flange kit 5063-9212.

To install one or two instruments in a sliding support shelf, order shelf 5063-9255, and slide kit 1494-0015 (for a single instrument, also order filler panel 5002-3999).

Front-Panel Menu Operation

By now you should be f amiliar with the FUNCTION and RANGE / DIGITS groups of fro nt -panel keys . You should als o understand how to ma ke front-panel connections for the various types of measurements. If you are not familiar with this information, we recommend that you read chapter 1, “Quick Start,” starting on page 11.

This chapter introduces you to three new groups of front-panel keys:

MENU, MATH, and TRIG. You will also learn how to use the comma

separator and store readings in memory. This chapter does no t gi ve a detailed description of every front-panel key or menu operation. It does, however, give y ou a good ov er vie w of th e fro nt- pan el menu and many front-panel operations. See chapter 3 “Features and Functions,” starting on page 49, for a complete discussion of the multimeter’s capabilities and operation.

Chapter 2 Front-Panel Menu Operation

Front-Panel Menu Reference

A: MEASurement MENU

1: AC FILTER > 2: CONTINUITY > 3: INPUT R > 4: RATIO FUNC > 5: RESOLUTION

1: AC FILTER 2: CONTINUITY 3: INPUT R 4: RATIO FUNC 5: RESOLUTION

Selects the slow, medium, or fast ac filter. Sets the continuity beeper threshold (1 Ω to 1000 Ω). Sets the input resistance for dc vol tage measurements.

Enables the dcv:dcv r atio functio n. Selects the measure m ent resolution.

B: MATH MENU

1: MIN-MAX > 2: NULL VALUE > 3: dB REL > 4: dBm REF R > 5: LIMIT TEST > 6: HIGH LIMIT > 7: LOW LIMIT

1: MIN- MAX 2: NULL VALUE 3: dB REL 4: dBm REF R 5: LIMIT TEST 6: HIGH LIMIT 7: LOW LIMIT

Recalls the stored minimum, maximum, average, and reading count. Recalls or sets the null value stored in the null register. Recalls or sets the dBm value stored in the dB relative register. Selects the dBm refer ence resistance value. Enables or disables limit testing. Sets the upper limit for limit testing. Sets the lower limit for li mit testing.

C: TRIGger MENU

1: READ HOLD > 2: TRIG DELAY > 3: N SAMPLES

1: READ HOLD 2: TRIG DELAY 3: N SAMPLES

Sets the readin g ho ld se ns itiv ity ban d. Specifies a time interval which is inserted before a measurement. Sets the nu mb er of sa mp le s p er tr ig ge r .

Chapter 2 Front-Panel Menu Operation

Front-Panel Menu Reference

D: SYStem MENU

1: RDGS STORE > 2: SAVED RDGS > 3: ERROR > 4: TEST > 5: DISPLAY > 6: BEEP > 7: COMMA > 8: REVISION

1: RDGS STORE 2: SAVED RDGS 3: ERROR 4: TEST 5: DISPLAY 6: BEEP 7: COMMA 8: REVISION

Enables or disables reading memory. Recalls readings stored in memory (up to 51 2 readings). Retrieves errors from the error queue (up to 20 errors). Performs a complete self-test. Enables or disables the front-panel display. Enables or disables the beeper function. Enables or disables a comma separator between digits on the display. Displays the multim eter’s firmwa re revision codes.

E: Input / Output MENU

1: GPIB ADDR > 2: INTERFACE > 3: BAUD RATE > 4: PARITY > 5: LANGUAGE

1: HP-IB ADDR 2: INTERFACE 3: BAUD RATE 4: PARITY 5: LANGUAGE

F: CALibra tion MENU

1: SECURED > [ 1: UNSECURED ] > [ 2: CALIBRATE ] > 3: CAL COUNT > 4: MESSAGE

1: SECURED 1: UNSECURED 2: CALIBRATE 3: CAL COUNT 4: MESSAGE

Sets the GPIB bus address (0 to 31). Selects the GPIB or RS-232 interface. Selects the baud rate for RS-232 operation. Selects even, odd, or no parity for RS -232 operation. Selects the interface language: SCPI, Agilent 3478, or Fluke 8840/ 42.

The multimeter is secured against calibration; enter code to unsecure. The multimeter is unsecured for calibration; enter code to secure. Performs complete calibration of present function; must be UNSECURED. Reads the total number of times the multimeter has been calibrated. Reads the calibration string (up to 12 characters) entered from remote.

The commands enclosed in square brackets ( [ ] ) are “hidden” unless the multimeter is UNSECURED for calibration.

Chapter 2 Front-Panel Menu Operation

A Front-Panel Menu Tutorial

A Front-Pan el Menu Tutorial

This section is a step-by-step tutorial which shows how to use the front-panel menu. We recommend that you spend a few minutes with this tutorial to get comfortable with the structure and operation of the menu.

The menu is organized in a top-down tree structure with three levels (menus, commands, and parameters). You move down

or up

∧ the menu tree to get from one level to the next. Each of the

three levels has several horizontal choices which you can view by moving left

< or right > .

Menus

Commands

∨

Parameters

• To turn on the menu, press Shift Menu On/Off .

• To turn off the menu, press Shift Menu On/Off , or press any of

the function or math keys on the top row of front-panel keys.

• To execute a menu command, press Enter .

• To recall the last menu command that was executed,

Shift Recall .

press

Chapter 2 Front-Panel Menu Operation

A Front-Panel Menu Tutorial

MESSAGES DISPLAYED DURING MENU USE

TOP OF MENU You pressed while on the “menus” level; this is the top level of

the menu and you cannot go any higher. To turn off the menu, press (Menu On/Off). To move across the choices

on a level, press or . To move down a level, press .

MENUS You are on the “menus” level. Press or to view the choices. COMMANDS You are on the “commands” level. Press or to view the

command c hoices within the selected menu group.

PARAMETER You are on the “parameter” level. Press or to view and edit

the parameter for the selected command.

MENU BOTTOM You pressed while on the “parameter” level; this is the bottom

level of the menu and you cannot go any lower. To turn off the menu, press (Menu On/Off). To move up a level,

press .

∧

CHANGE SAVED The change made on the “parameter” level is saved. This is

displayed after you press (Menu Enter) to execute the command.

MIN VALUE The value you specified on the “parameter” level is too small for th e

selected command. The minimum value allowed is displayed for you to edit.

MAX VALUE The value you specified on the “parameter” level is too large for the

selected command. The maximum value allowed is displayed for you to edit.

EXITING MENU You will see this message if you turn off the menu by pressing

(Menu On/Off) or a front-panel function/math key. You did not edit any values

Shift

on the “para meter” level and c hanges were NOT saved.

< >

∧

Shift <

∨

Shift

Auto/Man

∨

NOT ENTERED You will see this message if you turn off the menu by pressing

(Menu On/Off) or a front-panel function/math key. You did some editing of

Shift parameters but the changes were NOT saved. Press (Menu Enter) to save changes made on the “parameter” level.

NOT RELEVANT The selected math operation is NOT valid for the function in use.

Auto/Man

Chapter 2 Front-Panel Menu Operation

A Front-Panel Menu Tutorial

Menu Example 1 The following steps sh ow you h ow to turn on the men u, mo ve up or

down between l evels, move across the choice s on each level, and turn of f the menu. In this example, you will turn off the front-panel beeper.

On/Off

Shift <

> >

∨

1 Turn on the menu.

You enter the menu on the “menus” level. The

MEAS MENU is your first

choice on this level.

A: MEAS MENU

2 Move across to the

SYS MENU choice on this level.

There are six menu grou p choi c es a vaila bl e on the “menus” level. Eac h choice has a letter pref ix for easy i dentification (

A: , B: , etc.).

D: SYS MENU

3 Move down to the “commands” level within the

RDGS STORE command is your first choice on this level.

The

SYS MENU.

1: RDGS STORE

Chapter 2 Front-Panel Menu Operation

A Front-Panel Menu Tutorial

> > > > >

∨

4 Move across to the BEEP command on the “commands” level.

There are eight command choices available in the choice on this level has a n umber pr efix for ea sy identifi cation (

SYS MENU. Each

1: , 2: , etc.).

6: BEEP

5 Move down a level to the BEEP parameter choices.

The first parameter choice is “ setting is stored in non-volatile memory and “

ON” for the BEEP command (the beeper

ON” is the factory setting).

6 Move across to the “OFF” choice.

There are two parameter choice s for

BEEP.

OFF

Auto/Man

ENTER

7 Save the change and turn off the menu.

The multimeter beeps and displays a message to show that the change is now in effect. You are th en exi ted from the me n u.

CHANGE SAVED

Chapter 2 Front-Panel Menu Operation

A Front-Panel Menu Tutorial

Menu Example 2 The following exercise demonstr a t es how to use the menu reca ll feature

as a shortcut to set the

BEEP command back to its original setting.

You must perform the steps in Exa m ple 1 before you start this exam pl e.

Shift

∨

Recall

1 Use menu recall to return to the

This returns you to the

BEEP command, which was the last command

BEEP command.

used before you exi ted t h e menu i n th e Exampl e 1.

6: BEEP

2 Move down to the

The first parameter choice is “

BEEP parameter choices.

OFF” (the current setting from Example 1).

OFF

3 Move across to the “ON” choice.

Set the parameter back to its original value.

Auto/Man

ENTER

4 Save the change and turn off the menu.

The multimeter beeps and displays a message to show that the change is now in effect. You are th en exi ted from the me n u.

CHANGE SAVED

Chapter 2 Front-Panel Menu Operation

A Front-Panel Menu Tutorial

Menu Example 3 Some commands in the menu require that you enter a numeric

parameter value. The following steps show you how to enter a number in the menu. For this example, you will set the null value to –2.0 volts.

Make sure the mul timeter is in th e dc voltage funct io n with 5

resolution displayed. Disconnect all inputs to the multimeter.

On/Off

Shift <

1 Turn on the menu.

⁄2 digits of

∨

You enter the menu on the “menus” level. The

MEAS MENU is your first

choice on this level.

A: MEAS MENU

2 Move across to the

MATH MENU choice on this level.

There are six menu grou p choi c es a vaila bl e on this l evel .

B: MATH MENU

3 Move down to the “commands” level within the MATH MENU.

MIN–MAX command is your first choice on this level.

The

1: MIN-MAX

4 Move across to the

NULL VALUE command on this level.

There are seven command choices available within the

2: NULL VALUE

MATH ME NU.

Chapter 2 Front-Panel Menu Operation

A Front-Panel Menu Tutorial

∨

∨ ∨

5 Move down to edit the NULL VALUE parameter.

The null value should be 0.0 Vdc when you come to this point in the menu for the first time. For this example, you will set the null value to –2.0 volts.

∧000.000 mVDC

When you see the flashing “∧” on the left side of the displa y, you can abort the edit and return to the “commands” level by pressing

6 Make the number negative.

The leftmost character on the display toggles between + and – .

-000.000 mVDC

7 Move the flashing cursor over to edit the first digit.

Notice that the leftmost digit is flashing.

∧ .

∧

-000.000 mVDC

8 Increment the first digit until “ 2 ” is displayed.

You decrement or increment each digit independently. Neighboring digits are not affected.

-200.000 mVDC

Chapter 2 Front-Panel Menu Operation

A Front-Panel Menu Tutorial

< <

∧

Auto/Man

ENTER

9 Move the flashing cursor over to the “units” location.

Notice that the units are flashing on the right side of the display.

-200.000 mVDC

10 Increase the displayed number by a factor of 10.

Notice that the position of the decimal point changes and the displayed number increases by a factor of 10.

-2.000,00 VDC

11 Save the change and turn off the menu.

The multimeter beeps and displays a message to show that the change is now in effect. You are th en exi ted from the me n u.

CHANGE SAVED

Keep in mind that math null is turned on and –2.0 volts is used as the null va lu e for m ea su r e men t s. To cl ear the null value, pres s

Null .

This is the end of the front-panel menu tutorial. The remainder of the

chapter discusses several of the most common front-panel operations.

Chapter 2 Front-Panel Menu Operation

To Turn Off the Comma Separator

The multimet er can display re adi n gs on the fr on t panel w it h or with ou t a comma separator. The following steps show how to disable the comma.

On/Off

Shift <

∨

08.241,53 VDC

With comma separator

(factory setting) Without comma separator

08.24153 VDC

1 Turn on the menu.

A: MEAS MENU

2 Move across to the

SYS MENU choice on the “ menus” level.

D: SYS MENU

3 Move down a level and then across to the

COMMA command.

7: COMMA

4 Move down a level and then move across to the “OFF” choice.

Auto/Man

ENTER

OFF

5 Save the change and turn off the menu.

The comma separator setting is stored in non-volatile memory , and does not ch ange when pow er has been off or a fter a r em ote int erface res et.

Chapter 2 Front-Panel Menu Operation

To Make Null (Relative) Measurements

Each null measurement, also called relative, is the difference between a stored null value a nd the i n put signal.

Result = reading – null value

To read / edit the null value, use the MATH menu.

Enables null ope rati on; Press again to di sable.

• You can make null m easurements wi t h a ny function exce pt

Math annunciator is on when null operation is enabl ed.

continuity, diode, or ratio. The null operation is local to the selected function ; when yo u chan g e fu nct ion s , null i s disab led.

• To null the test lead resistance for more accurate two-wire ohms

measurements, short the ends of the test leads together and then press

Null .

• The first reading taken after you press Null is stored as the null

value in the Null Register. Any previously stored value is replaced with the new value.

• After enabling null, you can edit the stored null value by

pressing

“

NULL VAL UE ” command in th e MATH MENU (only if null is

Shift > (Menu Recall). This takes you to the

enabled). Go down to the “paramete r” level, and then edit the displayed value.

• The null register is c lear ed wh en yo u chan g e fu nct ion s , tu rn nul l off,

turn off the power, or perform a remote interface reset.

Chapter 2 Front-Panel Menu Operation

To Store Minimum and Maximum Readings

You can store the minimum and maximum readings during a series of measurements. The following discussion shows how to read the minimum, maximum, average, and reading count.

To read the minimum, ma ximu m, average, and count, use the MATH menu.

Enables min-max operation; Press again to dis able.

• You can use min-max with an y funct ion except c ontinuity or diode test.

Math annunciator is on when min-max operation is enabled.

The min-max operation is local to the selected function; when you change functions, min-max is disabled.

•• After enabling min-max, you can read the stored minimum,

maximum, average, and count by pressing

This takes you to the “

MIN–MAX” command in the MATH MENU

Shift > (Menu Recall).

(only if min-m ax is enabled). Go down to the “parameter” level, and then read the values by pressing

• The stored valu es are c l ear ed wh en yo u tu rn min- m ax off , tur n off the

< or > .

power, or perform a remote interface reset.

• The average is of all rea din gs t aken sin c e mi n-m ax w as en ab led (n ot

just the average of the stored minimum and maximum). The count is the total number of readings taken since min-max was enabled.

Chapter 2 Front-Panel Menu Operation

To Make dB Measurements

Each dB measurement is the difference between the input signal and a stored relative value, with both values converted to dBm.

dB = reading in dBm – relative value in dBm

To read / edit the dB relativ e value, use the MATH menu .

Enables dB operat ion; Press again to disa bl e.

• Select DC V or AC V .

• The first reading taken after you enable dB measurements is

Math annunciator is on when dB operation is enabl ed.

converted to dBm and is stored as the relative value in the dB Relative Register. Any previously stored value is replace d with the new value.

• After enabling dB operations, you can edit the relative value by

pressing

command in the

Shift > (Menu Recall). This takes you to the “dB REL”

MATH MENU (only if dB is enabled ). Go down to

the “p a rame t er ” level, and then edit the value display ed.

• The register is cl ear ed when yo u c hang e fu nc tion s , tu rn dB off,

turn off the power, or perform a remote interface reset.

Chapter 2 Front-Panel Menu Operation

To Make dBm Measurements

The dBm operation calculates the power delivered to a resistance referenced to 1 milliwatt.

dBm = 10 × Log

( reading

/ reference resistance / 1 mW )

To read / edit the dBm refer enc e res is tance, use the MATH menu.

Enables dBm oper at ion; Press again to dis able.

• Select DC V or AC V .

• The factory setting for the reference resistance is 600 Ω. To select a

different value, press

operations. This takes you to the “

MATH MENU (only if dBm is enabled).

Shift > (Menu Recall) after enabling dBm

dBm REF R” command in the

Math annunciator is on when dBm operation is enabled.

Go down to the “ p ar am eter” level, and then selec t a value: 50, 75, 93, 110, 124, 125, 135, 150, 250, 300, 500, 600, 800, 900, 1000, 1200, or 8000 ohms.

• The reference resistance is stored in non-volatile memory, and does no t

change when power has been off or after a remote interface reset.

Chapter 2 Front-Panel Menu Operation

To Trigger the Multimeter

You can trigger the multimeter from the front panel using single trigger or auto trigger.

Enables single trigger and triggers the multimeter.

Toggles betwe en aut o trigger and reading hold.

• Auto trigger ing is ena bl ed w he n you tur n on the m u lti met er . Notic e

that the ∗ (sample) annunciator turns on during each measurement.

• Single triggering takes one reading each time yo u press Single

and then waits for the next trigger. Continue pressing this key to trigger the multimeter.

Using an External Trigger

The external trigger mode is also enabled by pressi ng . It is like the single trigger mode except that you apply a trigger pulse to the re ar-panel Ext Trig terminal. The mult imet er is trigger ed on t he negative edge of a TTL pulse.

The front-panel key is disabled when in remote.

Single

(sample) annunciator is on

∗

during each measur ement .

Trig annunciator is on when the multimeter is waiting f or singl e trigger (auto trigge r disabled).

Single

Chapter 2 Front-Panel Menu Operation

To Use Reading Hold

The reading hold feature allows you to capture and hold a stable reading on the display. When a stable reading is detected, the multimeter emits a beep and holds th e value on the display.

To adjust the rea di ng hold sensitivity band, use the TRIG men u.

Toggles between aut o trigger and reading hold.

• Reading hold has an adjustable sen s iti vit y b an d to allow you to

Hold annunciator is on when reading hold is enabled.

select which readings are considered stable enough to be displayed. The band is expres sed as a percen t of re a din g on the s elec ted r a nge. The multimeter will capture and display a new value only after three consecutiv e r ea din g s ar e with in the b and .

• The default band is 0.10% of reading. After enabling reading hold,

you can choose a different band by pr essing

Shift >

(Menu Recall). This takes you to the “READ HOLD” command in

TRIG MENU (only if read ing hol d is enable d ).

the Go down to the “ p ar am eter” level, and then selec t a value:

0.01%, 0.10%, 1.00%, or 10.00% of reading.

• The sensitivity band is stored in volatile memory; the multimeter

sets the band to 0.10% of reading when power has been off or after a remote interface reset.

Chapter 2 Front-Panel Menu Operation

To Make dcv:dcv Ratio Measurements

To calculate a ratio, the multimeter measures a dc reference voltage applied to the terminals.

To enable ratio me asurem ent s, use the MEAS menu.

Sens e terminals and the voltage applied to the Input

Ratio =

dc signal voltage

dc reference voltage

Ratio annunciator is on when

• At the Sense te rminals, the reference voltage measurement function

ratio measurem ents ar e enabled.

is always dc voltage and has a maximum measurable input of

±12 Vdc. Autoranging is automatically selected for reference voltage

measurements on the

• The Input LO and Sense LO terminals must have a common reference

and cannot hav e a volta ge di ff er en ce grea ter than

• The specified measurement range applies only to the signal connected

to the

Input terminals. The signal on the Input terminals can be any

Sens e terminals.

±2 volts.

dc voltage up to 1000 volts.

On/Off

Shift <

∨

Chapter 2 Front-Panel Menu Operation

To Make dcv:dcv Ratio Measurements

The following steps sh ow you h ow to selec t the ratio function usin g th e front-panel menu.

1 Turn on the menu.

A: MEAS MENU

2 Move down a level and then across to the

RATIO FUNC command.

4: RATIO FUNC

∨

Auto/Man

ENTER

3 Move down to the “parameter” level.

For this command, there is only one choice on this level.

DCV:DCV

4 Select the ratio function and turn off the menu.

Notice that the

Ratio annunciator turns on.

CHANGE SAVED

To disabl e rat io measurements, select a dif ferent measurement functi on by pressing any front-panel function key.

Chapter 2 Front-Panel Menu Operation

To Use Reading Memory

The multimeter can store up to 512 readings in internal memory. The following steps demonstrate how to store readings and retrieve them.

1 Select the functio n.

Select any measurement functi on. You can also sele ct Nu l l , Mi n–Max, dB, dBm, or limit test. You can change the function at any time during reading memory.

Single

On/Off

Shift <

> > >

∨

2 Select the sing le trigger mode.

Notice that the

Tri g annunciator turns on. When reading memory is

enabled, read i ngs are s t ored wh en yo u tr igger the mul tim eter .

For this example, single triggering is used to store readings. You can also use auto triggering or reading hold.

3 Turn on the menu.

A: MEAS MENU

4 Move across to the

SYS MENU choice on this level.

D: SYS MENU

5 Move down to a level to the

RDGS STORE command.

1: RDGS STORE

Chapter 2 Front-Panel Menu Operation

To Use Reading Memory

Auto/Man

ENTER

Single Single Single

Recall

Shift >

> ∨

6 Move down a level and then across to the “ON” choice.

7 Save the change and exit the menu.

Notice that the multimeter is ready to store readings. Up to 512 readings can be stored in fir st-i n-f irs t-ou t ( will turn off.

Readings are preserved until you re-enable reading memory at another time, tur n of f the power, or per fo rm a remote inter face reset.

8 Trigger the multimeter three times.

This stores three readings in memory.

9 Use menu recall to retrieve the stored readings.

This takes you to the “

Mem (memory) annunciator turns on to indicate that t he

FIFO) order. When memory is full, the Mem annunciator

SAVED RDGS” command in the SYS M E NU.

2: SAVED RDGS

Chapter 2 Front-Panel Menu Operation

To Use Reading Memory

∨

On/Off

Shift <

10 Move down a level to view the first stored reading.

Reading memory is automa tically tu rned off when you go to the “parameter” level in the menu .

The first readi ng displayed is the first reading that was stor ed (F I FO). If no readings are s tor ed in mem ory , “

EMPTY” is displayed. The stored

readings are displayed with their units ( µ, m, k, etc.) when appropriate. For example:

Reading number

10.31607K: 1

Exponent

11 Move across to view the two remaining stored readings.

The readings a re stored horizontally on the “paramet er ” level. If you press

< when you get to the “parameter” level, you will see the

last reading and you will know how many readings were stored.

12 Turn off the menu.

EXITING MENU

Features and Functions

You will find that this chapter makes it easy to look up all the details about a partic ular feat u r e of the mu lt imet er . Whet h er you are oper at ing the multimeter from the front panel or from the remote interface, this chapter will be useful. This chapter is divided into the following sections:

• Measurement Configuration, starting on page 51

• Math Operations, starting on page 63

• Triggering, starting on page 71

• System-Rela ted O per a ti ons , star ti ng on page 84

• Remote Interface Configuration, starting on page 91

• Calibration Overview, starting on page 95

• Operator Maintenance, star ti ng on page 10 0

• Power-On and Reset State, on page 101

Some knowledge of the front-panel menu will be helpful before you read this chapter. If you have not already read chapter 2, “Front-Panel Menu Operation,” starting on page 25, you may want to read it now. Chapter 4, “Remote Interface Reference,” starting on page 103, lists the syntax for the

SCPI commands available to program the multimeter.

Throughout this manual, the following conventions are used for

SCPI command syntax f o r remote interface programming.

• Square brackets ( [ ] ) indicate optional keywords or parameters.

• Braces ( { } ) enclose parameters within a command string.

• Triangle brackets ( < > ) indicate that you must substitute a value

for the enclosed parameter.

• A vertical bar (

) separates multiple parameter choices.

Chapter 3 Features and Functions

Measurement Configuration

This secti on contains information to help you config ure the multimet er for making measurements. You may never have to change any of the measurement parameters discussed here, but they are provided to give you the flexibility you might need.

AC Signal Filter

The multimet er uses thr ee diffe re nt a c filte rs whi c h enabl e you to eith er optimize low frequency accuracy or achieve faster ac settling times. The multimeter selects the slow, medium, or fast filter based on the input freque ncy t ha t you specify.

Applies to ac vo ltage and ac current measurements only.

Input Frequency

3 Hz to 300 kHz 20 Hz to 300 kHz 200 Hz to 300 kHz

• The ac filter selection is stored in volatile memory; the multimeter

AC Filter Selected

Slow f ilter Mediu m filt er (d ef au lt ) Fast filter

Settling Time

7 seconds / reading 1 reading / second 10 readings / second

selects the medium filter (20 Hz ) when pow er has been off or aft er a remote interface reset.

• Front-Panel Operation: Select from the menu the slo w filter (3 Hz),

medium filter (20 Hz), or fast filter (200 Hz). The default is the

medium filter.

1: AC FILTER (MEAS MENU)

• Remote Interface Operation: Spec ify the lowest fr equ en cy ex pec t ed in

the input signal. The multimeter selects the appropriate filter based on the frequency you specify (see table above). The CONFigure and

MEASure? commands select the 20 Hz filter.

DETector:BANDwidth {3|20|200|MINimum|MAXimum}

Chapter 3 Features and Functions

Measurement Configuration

Continuity Threshold R esistance

When measuring continuity, the multimeter emits a continuous tone if the measured resistance is less than the threshold resistance. You can

set the threshold to any value between 1

The threshold resistance is adjustable only from the fro nt panel.

• The threshold resistance is stored in non-v olatile mem or y, an d does not

change when power has been off or after a remote interface reset.

• The factory setting for the threshold resistance is 10 Ω.

• After enabling the continuity function, you can select a different

threshold resistance by pressing

Ω and 1000 Ω.

Shift > (Menu Recall).

2: CONTINUITY (MEAS MENU)

See also “To Test Conti nuity,” on page 19.

∧0010 OHM

Chapter 3 Features and Functions

Measurement Configuration

DC Input Resistance

Normally, the multimeter’s input resistance is fixed at 10 MΩ for a ll dc voltage ranges to mini mize n oi se pi cku p. To r edu ce the effects of measurement loading errors, you can set the input r esi stance to greater than 10 G

Applies to dc voltage meas ureme nts an d is d isabled for all oth er fu nc tions.

Fixed Resistance ON Fixed Resistance OFF

• The input resi stan c e set ting is stor ed i n volatile memory; the

multimeter selects 10 M has been off or after a remote interface reset.

Ω for the 100 mVdc, 1 Vdc, and 10 Vdc ranges.

Input Resistance Input Resistance 100mV, 1V, 10V ranges 100V, 1000V ranges

(default)

10 MΩ 10 MΩ > 10 GΩ 10 MΩ

Ω (for all dc voltage ranges) wh en pow er

• Front-Panel Operation: Select from the menu the 10 MΩ mode (fixed

resistance fo r all d c volt a ge ranges) or the >10 G

is 10 M

Ω.

Ω mode. The default

3: INPUT R (MEAS MENU)

• Remote Interface Operation: You can enable or disable the automatic

input resistance mode. With is fixed at 10 M is set to >10 G

Ω for all ranges. With AUTO ON, t he input resistance

Ω for the three lowest dc voltage ranges. Th e CONFigure

and MEASure? commands automatically turn

AUTO OFF (default), the input resistance

AUTO OFF.

INPut:IMPedance:AUTO {OFF|ON}

Chapter 3 Features and Functions

Measurement Configuration

Resolution

Resolution is expr es sed in t er ms of number of digits the multimeter can measure or display. You can set the resolution to 4, 5, or 6 full digits, plus a “ accuracy and improve noise rejection, select 6 measurement speed, select 4

Applies to all measurement functions. The resolution for the math operations (null, min-max, dB, dBm, limit test) is the same as the resolution for the measurement function in use.

The correspondence between the number of digits selected and the resulting integration time (in power line cycles) is shown below. The autozero mode is set indirectly when you set the resolution.

Math Operations

There are five ma th oper a tion s av ai la bl e, only one of w hic h can be enabled at a time. Each math op e ration performs a mathematical operation on ea ch re a din g or stor es da ta on a series of re adi n gs. The selected math operation remains in effect until you disable it, change functions, turn off the power, or perform a remote interface reset. The math ope rat ions use one or more internal registe rs. You can preset the values in some of the registers, while others hold the results of the math operat ion .

Null Min -Max dB dBm Limit

The following table shows the math/measurement function combinations allowed. Each “

X” indicates an allowable combination. If you choose a

math operation that is not allowed with the present measurement function, math is turned off. If you select a valid math operation and then change to one that is invalid, a “Settings conflict” error is generated from the remote interface.

DC V

X X X X X

AC V

X X X X X

DC I

X X

AC I

X X

Ω

X X

Ω

X X

Freq

X X

Per

Con t Dio d e Ratio

X X

From the front pan el , you enabl e a math oper at ion b y press ing the appropriate key. The exception is Limit Test which you enable using the

LIMIT TEST command in the MATH MENU.

From the remote interface, the math operations and registers are controlled using commands within the CALCulate command subsystem. First, select the math operation you want to use (the default function is null):

CALCulate:FUNCtion {NULL|DB|DBM|AVERage|LIMit}

Then, enable the selected math function by tu rning the math state on:

CALCulate:STATe ON

Chapter 3 Features and Functions

Math Operations

Min–Max Operation

The min-max operation stores the minimum and maximum readings during a series of measurements. The multimeter then calculates the average of all readings and records the number of readings taken since min-max was enabled.

Applies to all measurement functions, except continuity and diode.

• After you enable min-max, the first reading that the multimeter

takes is stored as both the minimum and maximum value. The minimum is replaced with any subsequent value that is less. The maximum is replaced with any subsequent value that is greater.

• The multimeter displays “MIN” or “MAX” and b eep s (if th e fro nt- pa n el

beeper is enabled) whenever a new minimum or maximum is found. It is possible that the mu ltimeter will beep even if the displayed reading does not change; this is because the multimeter’s internal resolution may be greater than the displayed re solution. See also

“Beeper Control,” on page 88.

• The minimum, maximum, average, and count are stored in volatile

memory; the multimeter clears the v alues when m in-ma x is t urned on , when power has been off, or after a remote interface reset.

• Front-Panel Operation: After enabling min-max, you can read the

stored minimum, maximum, average, and count by pressing

Shift > (Menu R ecall). Tur ni ng on the menu does not dis a b l e

the min-max operation; the multimeter will resume taking measurements when you turn off the menu.

1: MIN-MAX (MATH MENU)

See also “To Store Minim um and Maximum Readings,” on page 39.

Chapter 3 Features and Functions

Math Operations

• Remote Interface Operation: You can use the following commands to

make min-max measurements.

CALCulate:FUNCtion AVERage CALCulate:STATe {OFF|ON} CALCulate:AVERage:MINimum? read the minimum value CALCulate:AVERage:MAXimum? read the maximum value CALCulate:AVERage:AVERage? read the average of all readings CALCulate:AVERage:COUNt? read the count

A new command is available starting with firmware Revision 2 which allows you to take readings using INITiate without storing them in internal memory. This command may be useful with the min-max operation since it all ows you to deter mine the averag e of a series of readings wit hout storing the individual values.

DATA:FEED RDG_STORE, "" do not store readings DATA:FEED RDG_STORE, "CALCulate" store readings (default)

See page 126 for more information on using the DATA:FEED command.

Null (Relative) Operation

When making null measurements, also called relative, each reading is the difference b etw een a stor ed n ull va lue and the inpu t sig na l. One possible application is in making more accurate two-wire ohms measurements by nulling the test lead resistance.

Result = reading – null value Applies to all measurement functions, except conti nuity, diode, and ratio .

• The null value is adjustable and you can set it to any value between

0 and ±120% of the highest range, for the present function.

• The null value is stored in volatile memory; the value is cleared

when power has been off, after a remote interface reset, or after a function change.

Chapter 3 Features and Functions

Math Operations

Null (Relative)

(continued)

• The null value is stored i n the m ulti meter’s Null Register. There are

two ways you can specify the null value. First, you can enter a specific num ber i nto the re gist er fr om the fr on t -pan el m en u or from the remote interface. Any previously stored value is replaced with the new value. If you are operating the multimeter from the front panel,

entering a nul l va lue also turns on the null functi on.

The second way to enter the null value is to let the mu ltimeter store the first reading in the register. After you enable null, the first

reading displayed will be zero (if you have not changed the value stored in the register). If you entered a number into the register, as

described in the paragraph above, the first reading does not overwrite the stored valu e.

• Front-Panel Operation: After enabling null, you can edit the stored

null value by pressing

Shift > (Menu Recall). Any previously

stored value is replaced with the new value. Turning on the menu does not disable the null operation; the multimeter will resume taking measurements when you turn off the menu.

2: NULL VALUE (MATH MENU)

See also “To Make Null (Rel a tive) Measurements,” on page 38.

• Remote Interface Operation: You can use the following commands to

make null measurements. Math must be enabled before you can store

a value in the Nu ll Re g is ter .

CALCulate:FUNCtion NULL CALCulate:STATe {OFF|ON} CALCulate:NULL:OFFSet {<

value>|MINimum|MAXimum}

The following pro gra m se gme nt sho ws t he prop er order th a t you should execute the commands to enable null and set an offset value.

CALC:FUNC NULL CALC:STAT ON CALC:NULL:OFFS -2.0

Chapter 3 Features and Functions

Math Operations

dB Measurements

Each dB measurement is the difference between the input signal and a stored relative value, with both values converted to dBm.

dB = readi ng in dBm – relative value in dBm Applies to dc volta ge an d ac voltag e meas ure me n ts onl y.

• The relative value is adjustable and you can set it to any value

between 0 dBm and ±200.00 dBm.

• The relative value is stored in volatile memory; the v alue is cleared

when power has been off, after a remote interface reset, or after a function change.

• The relative value is stored in the multimeter’s dB Relative Register.

There are two w ays yo u c an spec i fy the r el at iv e valu e. First , you can enter a specific nu mb er i nto the re gist er fr om the fr on t -pan el m en u or from the remote interface. Any previously stored value is replaced with the new value. If you are operating the multimeter from the front

panel, entering a relative va lue also turns on the dB function.

The second way to enter the relative value is to let the multimeter take the first reading, convert it to dBm, and store that value in the register. Changing the dBm reference resistance (see page 68) does not chang e the st or ed rel at ive valu e. Aft er you enabl e d B , th e first

readin g ta k en wi ll b e 0 dB (if you have not changed the valu e sto red in the register). If you entered a number into the register, as described in the paragraph above, the first reading does not overwrite t he store d va lu e.

• Front-Panel Operation: After enabling dB, you can edit the stored

rela tive value by pre ssing

Shift > (Menu Recall). Any previously

stored value is replaced with the new value. Turning on the menu does not disable the dB ope ration; the multimeter will resume taking measurements when you turn off the menu.

3: dB REL (MATH MENU)

See also “To Make dB Measurements,” on page 40.

Chapter 3 Features and Functions

Math Operations

• Remote Interface Operation: You can use the following commands to

make dB measurements. Math must be enabled b efore you can store a

value to the Relative Register.

CALCulate:FUNCtion DB CALCulate:STATe {OFF|ON} CALCulate:DB:REFerence {<

value>|MINimum|MAXimum}

dBm Measurements

The dBm operation calculates the power delivered to a resistance referenced to 1 milliwatt.

dBm = 10 × Log

( reading2 / reference resistance / 1 mW )

Applies to dc volta ge an d ac voltag e meas ure me n ts onl y.

• You can choose from 17 different reference resistance values.

The factory setting for the reference resistance is 600

Ω.

The choice s are: 50, 75, 93, 110, 124, 125, 135, 150, 250, 300, 500,

600, 800, 900, 1000, 1200, or 8000 ohms.

• The reference resistance is stored in non-volatile memory, and does not

change when power has been off or after a remote interface reset.

• Front-Panel Operation: After enabling dBm, yo u ca n s elect a new

reference resistance by pressing

Shift > (Menu Recall). Turning

on the menu does not disable the dBm operation; the multimeter will resume taking measurements when you turn off the menu.

4: dBm REF R (MATH MENU)

See also “To Make dBm Measurem ents,” on page 41.

• Remote Interface Operation: You can use the following commands to

make dBm measurements.

CALCulate:FUNCtion DBM CALCulate:STATe {OFF|ON} CALCulate:DBM:REFerence {<

value>|MINimum|MAXimum}

Chapter 3 Features and Functions

Math Operations

Limit Testing

The limit test operation enables you to perform pass/fail testing to upper and lower limits that you specify.

Applies to all measurement functions, except continuity and diode tests.

• You can set the upper and lower limits to any value between 0 and

±120% of the highest range, for the present function. The upper limit

selected should always be a more positive number than the lower limit. The default upp er and lower limi ts are both “0”.

• The upper and lower limits are stored in volatile memory; the

multimeter sets both limits to “0” when power has been off, after a remote interface reset, or after a function chang e.

• You can configure the multim eter to generate a service request (SRQ)

on the first occurrence of a failed reading. See “The SCPI Status Model,” starting on page 134 for more information.

• Front-Panel Operation: The multimeter disp la ys “OK” for each

reading that is within the specified limits. It displays “

HI” or “ LO” for

each reading that exceeds the upper or lower limit. The multimeter beeps once (if the front-panel beeper is enabled) on the first occurrence of a failed reading after a good reading. See also “ B eeper

Control,” on page 88.

5: LIMIT TEST (MATH MENU) enable or disab le limit te st 6: HIGH LIMIT (MATH MENU) set the upper limit 7: LOW LIMIT (MATH MENU) set the lower limit

You can also turn off limit test by selecting a dif ferent math operation from the front pane l (only one m ath oper ation can b e enable d at a tim e ).

Chapter 3 Features and Functions

Math Operations

Limit Testing

(continued)

• Remote Interface Operation: Yo u ca n us e the following commands fo r

limit testing.

CALCulate:FUNCtion LIMit CALCulate:STATe {OFF|ON} CALCulate:LIMit:LOWer {< CALCulate:LIMit:UPPer {<

• There are two unu s ed pin s on the RS-232 interfac e co nnec t or whic h

value>|MINimum|MAXimum} value>|MINimum|MAXimum}

are available to indicate the pass/fail status of readings taken with limit testing. To configure these pins for limit testing, you must install two jumpers inside the multimeter. See the Service Guide for

more information .

A low-going pulse is output to pin 1 for each reading that is within the specified limits. A low-going pulse is output to pin 9 for each reading that exceeds the upper or lower limit.

5 V

0 V

Caution

Pin 1: Pass Output Pin 9: Fail Output

2 ms

minimum

Do not use the RS-232 interface if you have configured the multimeter to output pass/fail signals on pins 1 and 9. Internal components on the RS-232 interface circuitry may be damaged.

Chapter 3 Features and Functions

Triggering

The multimeter’s triggering system allows you to generate triggers either manually or automatically, take multiple readings per trigger, and insert a delay before each reading. Normally, the multimeter will take one reading each time it r eceives a trigger, but you can specify multiple readings (up to 50,000) per trigger.

You can trigger the multimeter from the front panel using a single trigger, an external trigger, or auto triggering. Single triggering takes one reading each time you press the triggering is like single triggering, but the multimeter waits for a pulse on the rear-panel Ext Trig (external trigger) terminal before taking a readi ng. Auto triggering takes conti nuous readings at the fastest rate possible for the present confi guration. See also “To Trigger

the Multimeter,” on page 42.

Triggering the multimeter from the remote interface is a multi-step process that offers triggering flexibility.

Single key. External

• First, you must configure the multimeter for the measurement by

selecting the function, range, resolution, etc.

• Then, you must specify the source from which the multimeter will

accept the trigger. The multime te r will accept a software (bus) trigger from the remote interface, a hardware trigger from the Ext Trig terminal, or an immediate internal trigger.

• Then, you must make sure that the multimeter is ready to accept a

trigger from the specified trigger source (this is called the

wait-for-trigger stat e).

The diagram on the next page shows the multimeter’s triggering system.

Chapter 3 Features and Functions

Triggering

Agilent 34401A Triggering Syst em

Initiate Triggering

MEASure? READ? INITiate

Trigger Source

TRIGger:SOURce IMMediate TRIGger:SOURce EXTernal TRIGger:SOURce BUS Front-panel “Single” key

Idle State

Wait-for Trigger State

Trigger Delay

TRIGger:DELay

Sample ( ∗ ) Annunciator

Delay

Measurement Sample

Sample Count

≠ 1

Trigger Count ≠ 1

Chapter 3 Features and Functions

Triggering

Trigger Source Choices

You must specify the source from which the multimeter will accept a trigger. From the front panel, the multimeter will accept a single trigger, a ha rd wa re trigger from the Ext Trig terminal, or continuously take readings using auto trigger. At p o wer-on, auto triggering is used. From the remote interface, the multimeter will accept a software (bus) trigger, a ha rd wa re trigger from the Ext Trig terminal, or an immediate internal trigger. The measurement.

Q (sample) annunciator turns on during each

• The trigger so urce is stored in volatile memory; the source is set to

auto trigger (front panel) or immediate (remote interface) when power has been off or after a remote interface reset.

• To select the trigger source from the remote interface, use the

foll owing command. The CONFigure and MEASure? commands automatically set the trigger source to IMMediate.

TRIGger:SOURce {BUS|IMMediate|EXTernal}

Auto Triggering In the auto trigger mode (front panel only), the multimeter continuously takes readings at the fastest rate possible for the present configuration. This is the power-on trigger source for front-panel operation.

Single Triggering In the single trigger mode (front panel only), you can manually trigger the multimeter by pressing The multimet er tak es one r eadi n g, or the sp ec ified n umb e r of readings (sam ple c ou nt) , eac h ti me yo u pres s the key . The annunciator turns on when the multimeter is waiting for a trigger.

The front-panel

Single key is disabled when in remote.

Single .

Tri g

Chapter 3 Features and Functions

Triggering

External Triggering In the external trigger mode, the multimeter will accept a hardware trigger applied to the Ext Trig terminal. The multimet er tak es one r eadi n g, or the sp ec ified n umb e r of rea din g s (sample count), each time Ext Trig receives a low-true pulse.

See also “External Trigger Terminal,” on page 83.

• The multimeter buffers one external trigger. This means that if the

multimeter is taking a reading and another external trigger occurs, that trigger is a ccepted (a “Trigger ignored” error is not reported) . After the reading in progress is complete, the stored trigger satisfies the trigger source and then the trigger is issued.

• Front-Panel Operation: The external trigger mode is like the single

trigger mode except that you apply the trigger to the Ext Trig terminal. Pressing

enables the external trigger mode. The

Single to enable the single trigger mode also

Tri g annunciator turns on

when the multimeter is waiting for an external trigger.

The front-p a nel

• Remote Interface Operation:

Single key is disabled when in remote.

TRIGger:SOURce EXTernal

Chapter 3 Features and Functions

Triggering

Internal Tri gg ering In the internal trigger mode (r emote interface only), the trigge r signal is always present. When you place the multimeter in the wait-for-trigger state, the trigger is issued immediately. This is the power-on trigger source for remote interface operation.

To select the internal trigger source, send the following command. The CONFigure and MEASure? commands automatically set the trigger source to IMMediate.

TRIGger:SOURce IMMediate

Software (Bus) Triggering T he bus trigger mode is available only from the remote interface. This mode is similar to the single trigger mode from the front panel, but you trigger the multimeter by sending a bus trigger command.

• To select the bus trigger source, send the following command.

TRIGger:SOURce BUS

• To trigger the multimeter from the r emote in terface (GPIB or RS-232),

send the *TRG (trigger) comman d. The *TRG command will not be accepted unless the multimeter is in the wait-for-trigger state.

• You can also trigger the multimeter from the GPIB interface by

sending the

IEEE-488 Group Execute Trigger (GET) message.

The multimeter must be in the wait-for-trigger state. The following statement shows how to sen d a

TRIGGER 722

Group Execute Trigger

GET using BASIC.

Chapter 3 Features and Functions

Triggering

The Wait-for-Trigger State

After you have configured the multimeter and selected a trigger source, you must place the multimeter in the wait-for-trigger state . A trigger will not be accepted until the multimeter is in this state. If a trigger signal is present, and if multimeter is in the “wait-for-trigger” state, the measurement sequence begins and readings are taken.

The “wait-for-t rigger” state is a term used primarily for remote interface operation. From the front panel, the multimeter is always in the “wa it-for- trigger” st ate an d w ill ac c ep t tr igg er s at an y time , u nl es s a measurement is already in progress.

You can place the multimeter in the “wait-for-trigger” state by executing any of the following commands from the remote interface.

MEASure? READ? INITiate

The multim eter re qui res approximately 20 ms of set-up time after you

send a command to change to the “wait-for-trigger” state. Any exte rna l

triggers th at occur during this set-up time are ignored.

Halting a Measurement in Progress

You can send a device clear at any time to halt a measurement in progress and place the multimeter in the “idle state.” The following statement shows how to send a device clear over the using BASIC.

CLEAR 722

A device clear does not affect the configuration of the triggering system. The trigger source, sample count, trigger delay, and number of triggers are not changed.

IEEE-488 Device Clear

GPIB interface

Chapter 3 Features and Functions

Triggering

Number of Samples

Normally, the multimeter takes one reading (or sample) each time it receives a tr i gger from the selected trigger source (if the multimet er is in the wait-for-trigger state). You can, however, instruct the multimeter to take multiple readings for each trigger received.

• Number of samples: 1 to 50,000. The default is 1 sam ple p er tr ig g er .

• The selected num ber of samples is stored in volatile memory; the

multimeter sets the sample count to 1 when power has been off or after a remote interface reset. The CONFigure and MEASure? commands automatically set the sample count to 1.

• Front-Panel Operation:

3: N SAMPLES (TRIG MENU)

• Remote Interface Operation:

SAMPle:COUNt {<

value>|MINimum|MAXimum}

Chapter 3 Features and Functions

Triggering

Number of Triggers

Normally, the multimeter will accept only one trigger before returning to the “idle” trigger state. You can, however, instruct the multimeter to accept multiple triggers.

This feature is available only from the remote interface. If you set the trigger c ou nt and th e n go to loc al (fr on t panel), th e mult im e ter ign or e s the trigg er count setting; when you return to rem ote, the trigger count returns to the va lue you selected.

• Number of triggers: 1 to 50,000. The default is 1 trigger.

• The selected num ber of t rigg er s is stored in volatile memory; the

multimeter sets the trigger count to 1 when power has been off or after a remote interface reset. The CONFigure and MEASure? commands automatically set the trigger count to 1.

• Remote Interface Operation:

TRIGger:COUNt {<

value>|MINimum|MAXimum|INFinite}

Chapter 3 Features and Functions

Triggering

Trigger Delay

You can insert a delay between the trigger signal and each sample that follows. This may be useful in applications where you want to allow the input to settle before taking a reading, or for pacing a burst of readings. If you do not specify a trigger delay, the multimeter automatically selects a delay for you.

• Delay range: 0 to 3600 seconds. The default trigger delay is

automatic; the d elay is det er mined b y fu nc tion, ran ge , inte gr ation time, and ac filter setting (see also “Automatic Trigger Delays,” on page 81).

• The trigger delay is stored in volatile memory; the multimeter selects

an automatic trigger delay when power has been off or after a remote interface reset. The CONFigure and MEASure? commands automatically set the trigger delay to automatic.

• If you specify a delay other than automatic, that same delay is used

for all functions and ranges.

• If you have configured the multimeter to take more than one reading

per trigger (sample count > 1), the specified trigger delay is inserted between the trigger and each reading.

• Front-Panel Operation: You can use an automatic trigger delay or

you can specify a de lay in seconds.

2: TRIG DELAY (TRIG MENU)

If an automatic trigger delay is enabled, “

AUTO” is displayed

momentarily before the actual number of seconds is displayed.

--- AUTO ---

Chapter 3 Features and Functions

Triggering

Trigger Dela y

(continued)

• Front-Panel Operation (continued)

To set the delay to 0 seconds, select the “parameter” level of the

DELAY

the right side of the display. Press

command. Move the flashing cursor to the “units” location on

∨ until ZERO DELAY is reached,

then press Menu Enter.

ZERO DELAY

To select the automatic trigger delay, select the “parameter” level

TRIG DELAY command. Move the flashing cursor to the

of the “units” location on the right side of the display. Press

AUTO DELAY is reached, then press Menu Enter.

∨ until

AUTO DELAY

• Remote Interface Operation:

You can use the following command to set the trigger delay.

TRIGger:DELay {<

seconds>|MINimum|MAXimum}

You can use the following command to set an automatic trigger delay.

TRIG

TRIGger:DELay:AUTO {OFF|ON}

Chapter 3 Features and Functions

Triggering

Automatic Trigger Delays

If you do not specify a trigger delay, the multimeter selects an automatic delay for you. The delay is determined by function, range, integration time, and ac filter setting.

• DC Voltage and DC Cu rrent (for all ranges):

Integration Time

NPLC ≥ 1 NPLC < 1

• Resistance (2-wire and 4-wire):

Rang e

100 Ω 1 kΩ 10 kΩ 100 kΩ 1 MΩ 10 MΩ 100 MΩ

• AC Voltage and AC Cu rrent (for all range s):

Remote or single/external trigger

AC F ilter

Slow Medium Fast

Trigger Delay

1.5 ms

1.0 ms

Trigger Delay (For NPLC ≥ 1)

1.5 ms

1.5 ms 15 ms 100 ms 100 ms

Trigger Delay

7.0 sec

1.0 sec 600 ms

Range

100 Ω 1 kΩ 10 kΩ 100 kΩ 1 MΩ 10 MΩ 100 MΩ

Front panel wi th auto trigger ON

AC Filter

Slow Medium Fast

Trigger Delay (For NPLC < 1)

1.0 ms

1.0 ms 10 ms 100 ms 100 ms

Trigger Delay

1.5 sec 200 ms 100 ms

• Frequenc y and Pe ri od :

Remote or single/external trigger

Trigger Delay

1.0 sec

Front panel with auto trigger ON

Trigger Delay

0 sec

Chapter 3 Features and Functions

Triggering

Reading Hold

The reading hold feature allows you to capture and hold a stable reading on the front-panel display. This is especially useful in situations where you want to take a read ing, remove the test probes, and have the reading remain on the display. When a stable reading is detected, the multimeter emits a beep (if the front-panel beeper is enabled) and holds the reading on the display. See also “Beeper Control,” on page 88.

The reading hold feature is available only from the front panel. If you go to remote when reading hold is enabled, the multimeter ignores it; when you return to loc al (fr on t pane l) , read in g hold is enab le d aga in .

• Reading hold has an adjustable sen s iti vit y b an d (adj u st ab le only from

the front panel) to allow you to select which readings are considered stable enough to be displa yed. The band is express ed as a percen t of reading, on the selected range. The multimeter will capture and display a new value only after three consecutive readings are within t he band.

Select one of these values: 0.01%, 0.10% (default), 1.00%, or 10.00% of reading. For example, assume that the 1.00% band is selected and a 5 volt signal is applied to the multimeter. If three consecutive readings are between 4.975 volts and 5.025 volts, the display will show a new reading.

• The sensitivity band is stored in volatile memory; the multimeter sets

the band to 0.10% when power has been off or after an interface reset.

• If the multimeter is in autorange when you enable reading hold,

it will autorange to the correct range. If the multimeter is in the manual r a ng e m o de , th e s am e f ixed range will b e used for readin g hold.

• When reading hold is enabled, the input resistance is automatically

set to 10 M

Ω (AUTO OFF) for all dc voltage ranges. This helps to

minimize noise pickup when the test leads are open-circuit.

• For certain applications, it may be useful to use reading hold with

reading memory. See also “Reading Memory,” on page 84.

• Front-Panel Operation: After enabling reading hold, you can select a

different sensitivity band by pressing

Shift > (Menu Recall).

1: READ HOLD (TRIG MENU)

See also “To Use Reading Hold,” on page 43.

Chapter 3 Features and Functions

Triggering

Voltmeter Complete Terminal

The rear-pan el VM Comp (voltmeter complete) terminal provides a low-true pulse after the completion of each measurement. Voltmeter complete and external trigger (see below) implement a standard hardware handshake sequence between measur ement a nd switchi ng devices.

5 V

Output

0 V

Approximately 2 µs

External Trigger Terminal

You can trigger the multimeter by applying a low-true pulse to the rear-panel Ext Trig (external trigger) terminal. To use this terminal from the remote interface, you must select the external trigger source (TRIGger:SOURce EXTernal).

Input

5 V

0 V

>1 µs

You can use a simple switch to generate an external trigger using the Ext Trig input as shown below.

Ext Trig

Chapter 3 Features and Functions

System-Related Operations

This sectio n gi ve s information on topi cs such as reading memory, errors, self-test, and front-panel display control. This information is not directly related to making measurements but is an important part of operating the multimeter.

Reading Memory

The multimeter can store up to 512 readings in internal memory. Readings are stored in first-in-first-out ( returned is the first reading stored. The reading memory feature is

available only from the front pane l.

• You can use reading memory with all functions, math operations, and

also reading hold. After you have enabled reading memory, you can change the function. Be aware, however, that the funct ion labels

(

VDC, OHM, etc. ) are not stored with the reading.

FIFO) order. The first reading

• Readings taken while reading me mo ry is enabled are stored in

volatile memory; the multimeter clears the stored readings when reading memory is turned on again, when power has been off, after a self-test, or after a remote interface reset.

• You can use reading memory with auto trigger, single trigger,

external trigger, and reading hold. If you configure the multimeter for multiple readings per trigger, the specified number of readings are stored in memory eac h tim e a trig ge r is recei v ed.

• Front-Panel Operation:

1: RDGS STORE (SYS MENU) store readings in memory 2: SAVED RDGS (SYS MENU) read the stored rea dings

Reading memory is automatically turned off when you go to the “parameter” level in the menu to recall the readings. See also “To Use

Reading Memory,” on page 46.

• Remote Interface Operation: The INITiate command uses reading

memory to store readings prior to a FETCh? command. You can query the number of stored readings in memo ry by sending the DATA:POINts? command from the remote interface.

Chapter 3 Features and Functions

System-Related Operations

Error Conditions

When the front-panel ERROR annunciator turns on, one or more command syntax or hardware errors have been dete ct ed. A record of up to 20 errors is stored in the multimeter’s error queue. See chapter 5,

“Error Messages,” for a complet e li sting of the erro rs.

• Errors are retrieved in first-in-first-out (FIFO) order. The first

error returned is the first error that was stored. Wh en you have read al l errors from the queue, the The multimeter beeps once each time an error is generated.

ERROR annunciator turns off.

• If more than 20 errors have occurred, the last error stored in the

queue (the most recent error) is replaced w ith -350, “Too many errors”. No additional e rrors are stored unti l you remove errors from the queue. If no errors have occurred when you read the error queue, the multime ter respon ds with +0, “No error ”.

• The error queue is cleared when power has been off or after a *CLS

(clear statu s) co m ma nd has been exec u t ed. The *RST (reset) command does not clear the error queue.

• Front-Panel Operation:

3: ERROR (SYS MENU)

If the

ERROR annunciato r is on, press S hi ft < (Recall Menu) to

read the error s stored in the queue. The er ro rs are listed horizontally on the “parameter” level. All errors are cleared when you go to the “parameter” level and then turn off the menu.

ERR 1: -113

First error in queue

• Remote Interface Operation:

Error code

SYSTem:ERRor?

Reads one error from the error queue

Errors have the following format (the error string may contain up to 80 characters):

-113,"Undefined header"

Chapter 3 Features and Functions

System-Related Operations

Self-Test

A power-on self-test occurs automatically when you turn on the multimeter. This limited test assures you that th e multimeter is operational. This sel f-tes t does no t perf or m the ext en sive s et of anal og tests that are included as part of the complete self-test described below.

A complete self-test run s a series of t est s and tak es appr ox im at ely 15 seconds to execute. If all tes t s pass, you can have a high confidence that the multimeter is operational.

• The results of the complete self-test are stored in internal reading

memory (see page 84). Memory is cleared as the self -t est stor es t his information. Other than clearing memory, the complet e self-te s t does not alter the state of the multim eter .

• If the complete self-test is successful, “PASS” is display ed on the fr ont

panel. If the self-test fails, “ annunciator turns on. See the Service Guide for instructions on returning the multimeter to Agilent for service.

FAIL” is displayed and the ERROR

• Front-Panel Operation: You can perform some of the tests (complete

self-test) individually or you can perform all tests together at once.

4: TEST (SYS MENU)

Another way to perform the complete front-panel self-test is as follows: Hold down

Shift as you press the Power switch to turn on the

multimeter; hold down the key for more than 5 seconds. The selftest will begin when you re leas e the key.

• Remote Interface Operation:

*TST?

Returns “0” if the self-test is successful, or “1” if it fails.

Chapter 3 Features and Functions

System-Related Operations

Display Control

To speed up your measurement rate, or for security reasons, you may want to turn off the front-panel display. From the remote interface, you can also display a 12-character message on the front panel.

• When the display is turned off, readings are not sent to the display

and all display annunciators except Front-panel operation is otherwise una ffected by turni ng off the display.

• The display state i s stor ed in volatile memory; the display is enabled

when power h as been off or aft er a remote i nte rf a ce reset.

• You can display a message on the front panel by sending a

command from the remote interface. The multimeter can display up to 12 characters of the message on the front panel; any additional characters are truncated. Commas, periods, and semicolons share a display space with the preceding character, and are not considered individual characters. When a message is displayed, readings are not sent to the display.

• Sending a message to the display from the remote interface overrides

the display state; this means that you can display a message even if the display is turned off.

ERROR and Shif t are disabled.

• Front-Panel Operation:

5: DISPLAY (SYS MENU)

The display always turns on for menu operation; this means that even when the display is turned off, you can still operate the menu.

• Remote Interface Operation:

DISPlay {OFF|ON} disable/enable the display DISPlay:TEXT <

quoted string> display the string enclosed in quotes

DISPlay:TEXT:CLEar clear the displayed message

The following command string shows how to display a message on the front panel.

"DISP:TEXT ’HELLO’"

Chapter 3 Features and Functions

System-Related Operations

Beeper Control

Normally, the multimeter will emit a tone whenever certain conditions are met from the front pane l. For example, the multimeter will beep when a stable reading is captured in reading hold. You may want to disable the front-panel beeper for certain applications.

• When you disable the beeper, the multimeter will n ot emit a t one when :

1) a new minimum or maximum is found in a min–max test.

2) a stable reading is captured in reading hold.

3) a limit is exceeded in a limit test.

4) a forward-bias ed diode is measured in the diod e te st fun ction.

• Disabling the beeper has no effect on the tone generated when:

1) an error is generated.

2) the continuity thr es h old is exc eede d .

3) you turn off the front-panel menu.

Turn ing off the beeper does no t disable the k ey click ge nerated wh en you press a front-panel key.

• The beeper stat e is store d in non-volatile memory, and does not

change when power has been off or after a remote interface reset. The beeper is enabled when the m ultimeter is shipped fr om t he fac tory.

• Front-Panel Operation:

6: BEEP (SYS MENU)

• Remote Interface Operation:

SYSTem:BEEPer issue a single b eep imm ediately SYSTem:BEEPer:STATe {OFF|ON} disable/enable beeper sta te

Chapter 3 Features and Functions

System-Related Operations

Comma Separato rs

The multimet er can display re adi n gs on the fr on t panel w it h or with ou t a comma separator. This featur e is ava ilab l e on ly fr om th e fron t panel.

08.241,53 VDC

With comma separator

• The display format is stored in non-volatile memory, and does not

(factory setting) Without comma separator

08.24153 VDC

change when power has been off or after a remote interface reset. The comma separator is enabled when the multimeter is shipped from the facto ry .

• Front-Panel Operation:

7: COMMA (SYS MENU)

See also “ T o Tu rn Of f the Comm a Se par at or ,” on page 37.

Firmware Revision Query

The multimeter has three microproces sors for control of various internal systems. You can query the multimeter to determine which revision of firmware is installed for each microprocessor.

• The multim ete r returns three numbers. The first num b er is the

firmware revi sion number for the mea surement proce ssor; the second is for the input/output processor; and the third is for the front-panel processor.

• Front-Panel Operation:

8: REVISION (SYS MENU)

• Remote Interface Operation:

*IDN? returns

“HEWLETT-PACKARD,34401A,0,XX-XX-XX”

REV XX-XX-XX

Be sure to dimens io n a string variab le with at least 35 chara cters.

Chapter 3 Features and Functions

System-Related Operations

SCPI Language Version Query

The multimet er complies with the rules and r eg ulat ions of the present version of You can determine the compliance by sending a command from the remote interface.

SCPI (Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments).

SCPI version with which the multimeter is in

You cannot query the

• The following command returns the SCPI version.

SCPI version from the front panel.

SYSTem:VERSion?

Returns a string in the form “YYYY.V” where the “Y’s” represent the year of the version, and the “V” represents a version number for that year (for example, 1991.0).

Chapter 3 Features and Functions

Remote Interface Configuration

This section gives information on configuring the remote interface. For additional inf or ma tion , see ch apt er 4, “Remote Interface Refer en c e,” starting on page 103.

GPIB Address

Each device on the GPIB (IEEE-488) interface must have a unique address. You can set the multimeter’s address to any value be twee n 0 and 31. The address is set to “22” when the multimeter is shipped from the factor y . The

The GPIB address can be set only fr om the front-panel.

• The address is stored in non-volatile memory, and does not change

when power h as been off or aft er a remote i nte rf a ce reset.

• You can set the address to “31” which is the talk only mode. In this

mode, the multimeter can output readings directly to a printer without being addressed by a bus controller (over either

RS-232). For proper operation, make sure your printer is configured in

the listen always mode. Address 31 is not a valid address if you are operating the multimeter from the

GPIB address is displayed at power-on.

GPIB or

GPIB interface with a bus controller.

If you select the

RS-232 interface and then set the GPIB address to the

talk only address (31), the multimete r will send readings over the

RS-232 interface when in the local mode.

• If you select the RS-232 interface and then set the GPIB address to the

talk only address (31), the multimete r will send readings over the

RS-232 interface when in the local mode.

• Your GPIB bus controll er has its own address. Be sure to avoid using

the b us controlle r’ s address for any instrument on the interface bus. Agilent controllers generally use address “21”.

• Front-Panel Operation:

1: GPIB ADDR (I/O MENU)

Agilent Technologies 34401A User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

In This Book

Contents

To Prepare the Multimeter for Use

If the Multimeter Does Not Turn On

To Adjust the Carrying Handle

To Measure Voltage

To Measure Resistance

To Measure Current

To Measure Frequency (or Period)

To Check Diodes

To Select a Range

To Set the Resolution

Front-Panel Display Formats

To Rack Mount the Multimeter

Front-Panel Menu Reference

A Front-Panel Menu Tutorial

MESSAGES DISPLAYED DURING MENU USE

Menu Example 1 The following steps sh ow you h ow to turn on the men u, mo ve up or

Menu Example 2 The following exercise demonstr a t es how to use the menu reca ll feature

Menu Example 3 Some commands in the menu require that you enter a numeric

To Turn Off the Comma Separator

To Make Null (Relative) Measurements

To Store Minimum and Maximum Readings

To Make dB Measurements

To Make dBm Measurements

To Trigger the Multimeter

To Use Reading Hold

To Make dcv:dcv Ratio Measurements

To Use Reading Memory

Measurement Configuration

Math Operations

Triggering

System-Related Operations

Remote Interface Configuration