Agilent performance at a fraction of the cost of other standalone data acquisition systems
Agilent 34970A
Data Acquisition/
Switch Unit Family
Product Overview 34970A
34972A
•3-slot mainframe with built-in 6½ digit DMM and 8 optional switch and control plug-in modules
•Measures and converts 11 different input signals: temperature with thermocouples, RTDs and thermistors; dc/ac volts; 2- and 4-wire resistance; frequency and period; dc/ac current
•IO options for easy connectivity to your PC:
34970A: GPIB, RS-232 34972A: LAN, USB
•Graphical Web interface for point and click monitor and control (34972A)
•USB flash drive support to copy/log data in standalone applications (34972A)
•Includes BenchLink Data Logger Software to configure and control tests, display results and collect data for further analysis
Table of Contents
3Features
634970A/34972A Power and Flexibility
7 34970A/34972A for your data acquisition applications
10Using the 34970A/34972A for ATE applications
11ATE feature checklist
12Using the 34970A/34972A for switching applications
13Customize your 34970A/34972A with plug-in modules
13Modules at a glance selection guide
14Agilent quality
15Spec interpretation guide
16Accuracy specifications
18System measurement rates
19System specifications
19Agilent BenchLink Data Logger Software
20Modules specifications
21Multiplexer selection guide (34901A, 34902A, and 34908A)
23Actuator module (34903A)
23Matrix module (34904A)
24RF Multiplexer modules (34905A, 34906A)
25Multifunction module (34907A)
26Rack mounting and dimensions
27Ordering information
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Features
Price and performance beyond compare
Go ahead and compare the Agilent Technologies 34970A and 34972A Data Acquisition/Switch Units with other data acquisition systems currently available. You’ll find it hard to come up with a system that offers the powerful measurement performance, flexibility, connectivity options and ease of use of the 34970A/34972A—even in systems costing three to five times as much.
What can you expect from a data acquisition system that’s this affordable? Measurements you can trust
We took the measurement engine from our best-selling benchtop DMM and embedded it inside a 3-slot mainframe. You get the benefit of proven Agilent measurement performance, universal inputs with built-in signal conditioning, and modular flexibility, all in a low-cost, compact data acquisition package. The 34970A/34972A features 6½ digits (22 bits) of resolution, 0.004% basic dcV accuracy, and ultra-low reading noise. Combine that with scan rates of up to 250 channels/sec, and you’ve got the speed and accuracy you need to get the job done right the first time.
Built-in signal conditioning to get your job done
Whether you need to measure temperature, ac/dc volts, resistance, frequency, or current, the 34970A/34972A can
handle it. The internal autoranging DMM directly measures 11 different functions, eliminating the need for expensive external signal conditioning. And our unique design allows complete per channel configurability for maximum flexibility and quick, easy set up. It’s like having an independent, high-performance DMM behind each channel.
Standard connectivity to the PC
Whether you use GPIB, RS-232, LAN or USB interfaces, the 34970A/34972A family offers easy connection to the PC. The 34970A offers traditional GPIB and RS-232 interfaces. The 34972A has built-in Gigabit LAN and USB 2.0 so you can connect to a modern PC without having to purchase any GPIB cards, cables or converter boxes. With the standard LAN connections you also get the added benefit of a graphical Web interface for easy configuration of measurements and monitoring of results using a standard Web browser.
Convenient data storage with USB flash drive
The 34972A also features a built-in USB memory port so that you can use a USB flash drive to upload BenchLink Data Logger configurations into the 34972A and collect data without being connected to a PC. Data can be logged directly to the USB flash drive, extending your instrument’s memory, or copied from internal memory for transfer to a computer in another location.
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Easy to use graphical Web interface (34972A only)
The built-in graphical Web interface provides easy access and control of the instrument using a Java-enabled Web browser such as Internet Explorer. Using this interface you can configure measurements, define and execute scan lists, or monitor measurement results from anywhere on the network. Simply enter the instrument host name or IP address into the browser URL and gain access to the
instrument’s capabilities with simple point and click control right in your browser.
•Specify per channel measurement configuration
•Define and execute switch scans
•Open, close, or monitor switch positions
•Monitor measurement readings
•View and save data
•Send SCPI commands and view IO command log
•View error queue
•View instrument information like module configuration, relay counts, firmware revisions, and more
Additionally, since the Web interface is built into the instrument, you can access it on any operating system that supports a Web browser without having to install any special software.
Password protection and LAN lock out are also provided to limit access. The graphical Web interface makes it easy to configure measurements, set up and execute scans or troubleshoot your designs from anywhere on the network.
Free BenchLink Data Logger software saves you time and money
Now you don’t have to spend your valuable time writing or configuring software. Agilent BenchLink Data Logger 3 software gives you a familiar Microsoft® Windows® interface for test configuration and real-time data display and analysis. Even better, the data logging application is included with every standard Agilent 34970A/34972A.
Also available
The BenchLink Data Logger Pro Software adds limit checking and decision making for more complex applications. Simply identify the measurements you want to acquire, define limits and actions to be performed, and then
initiate the process. Your data is then collected, evaluated and acted on real-time.
Start
Scan List A
(base)
Events
Scan List C
34832A BenchLink Data Logger Pro adds limit checking and decision making
• Control Instruments
Event 
• Send Notification(s)
• Stop Scan
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Scan List B |
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• Send Notification(s) |
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•Control Instruments Event • Send Notification(s)
•Stop Scan
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Unequaled ease of use |
34970A and 34972A are compatible |
From the simplified configuration to the graphical Web interface in the 34972A, we put in extra time and energy so you don’t have to. Simple things like on-module screwterminal connectors, built-in thermocouple reference junctions, well-organized user documentation full of examples and hints, and a standard Getting Started kit that will have you making measurements in just a few minutes all add up to increased productivity, whether you use the instrument every day or only now and then.
Custom configurations that grow with you
Three module slots and eight switch/control modules allow you to customize the 34970A/34972A to meet your unique requirements. Buy only what you need—and add more modules later as your application grows.
The 34972A LXI Data Acquisition/Switch Unit is an LXI version of the 34970A. It replaces the GPIB and RS-232 interfaces with modern connectivity for a direct connection to your PC or Laptop.
The 8 plug-in modules can be used with either unit—so all the measurements and wiring are compatible. The 34972A can be easily integrated into an existing test program with a simple change to the instrument address. Since the 34972A code is a superset of the 34970A code, once the instrument address is changed, the test program will run as normal.
Example:
Change:
Set inst1.IO = ioMgr.Open(“GPIB0::9::INSTR”)
To:
Set inst1.IO = ioMgr.Open(“TCPIP0::156.140.77.230::inst0:: INSTR”)
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34970A |
34972A |
Support 8 plug-in modules |
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LabView drivers |
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IVI-C, IVI-COM drivers |
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BenchLink Data Logger |
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Optional BenchLink Data Logger Pro |
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Graphical Web interface |
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Gigabit LAN |
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USB 2.0 |
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USB memory port |
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GPIB |
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RS-232 |
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More power and flexibility than you ever imagined you could afford
6½ digit (22-bit) internal |
Intuitive front panel with |
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50 k readings of non-volatile |
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DMM measures 11 functions without |
task-oriented, self-guiding menus |
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memory holds data when |
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external signal conditioning |
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power is removed |
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Monitor display mode lets you keep an eye on tests in progress
Scaling function for converting raw inputs into user-defined units
HI/LO alarm limits on each input |
Battery-backed real-time clock for pacing |
channel, plus 4 TTL alarm outputs |
scans and timestamping readings |
34972A
•Offers up to 96 matrix crosspoints or
120 single-ended channels
•8 switch and control plug-in modules to choose from
•Agilent BenchLink Data Logger 3 Agilent VEE,
IVI-C, IVI-COM and |
34970A |
National Instruments
LabVIEW drivers included
USB
USB memory port to log/ transfer data to a USB flash drive
Built-in LAN and USB for instant connection to a PC
GPIB
34970A built-in GPIB and RS-232 interfaces
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The Agilent 34970A/34972A offers unequaled versatility for your data acquisition applications
In the past, you had to make a choice. On the one hand, you could choose the simple operation and low cost of a data logger. On the other hand, you had the flexibility and higher performance of a modular data acquisition system. The Agilent 34970A/34972A Data Acquisition/Switch Unit gives you the best of both worlds: a simple user interface with low per-channel cost, modular flexibility, standard connectivity and impressive measurement performance.
Whether you’re an R&D engineer working on characterizing your latest design, or a manufacturing engineer building a test system or troubleshooting a process, the 34970A/34972A Data Acquisition/Switch Unit offers the best combination of price and measurement performance.
It’s a data logger
Configured with a 20-channel relay multiplexer, the 34970A/34972A becomes a powerful, low-cost data logger for simple characterization applications. What’s more,
the 34972A with its LAN and USB interfaces is ideal for easy set up and control for data logging applications in remote locations. For more information on using the
34970A/34972A for data logging applications, see page 8.
It’s a data acquisition front end
The 34970A/34972A is an automated test system with excellent measurement performance—it’s got the accuracy, resolution, and speed you need. See page 10 for application information.
It’s a switch system
Order the mainframe without the internal DMM and you’ve got an even lower cost, high-quality signal routing solution. See page 12 for details.
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An easy-to-use data logger for monitoring and characterization applications
Data loggers are used to monitor multiple signals (temperature, voltage, etc.) over extended periods of time to identify irregularities. Example applications include environmental chamber monitoring, component inspection, benchtop testing, process troubleshooting, and temperature profiling.
The Agilent 34970A/34972A is easy to use for a multitude of data logging and monitoring applications, either standalone or with a computer. Its flexible, modular design makes it scalable from 20 to 120 channels, and lets you add actuator, digital I/O, and analog output channels for simple control. Its small size, ruggedized features and USB memory port on the 34972A make it perfect for portable
applications. Use GPIB (IEEE 488) or RS-232 interfaces in the 34970A for legacy systems or use the 34972A with standard LAN and USB interfaces for simple connection to the PC and support of remote applications. The 34972A can be set up at remote locations and accessed through the Web interface on a network connection or through the USB port by copying instrument configurations and measurement data results to a USB flash drive.
Better measurements with fewer hassles
Tired of putting up with the mediocre measurement performance you get with most data loggers or plug-in data acquisition boards? The 34970A/34972A offers 6½ digits of resolution and 0.004% basic 1-year dcV accuracy.
Simplify your data gathering with
Agilent BenchLink Data Logger 3 software
Do you want PC-based data logging capability, but don’t want to spend hours programming? The BenchLink Data Logger 3 software is the answer. This Windows-based application is designed to make it a snap to use your PC for gathering and analyzing measurements. Use it to set up your test, acquire and archive measurement data, and perform real-time display and analysis of the incoming measurements.
A familiar spreadsheet environment makes it easy to configure and control your tests. And a rich set of colorful graphics provides many options for analyzing and displaying your data—all with point-and-click ease. Set up multiple graphics using strip charts, histograms, bar and scatter charts, individual channel results, and more. And of course you can use BenchLink Data Logger 3 to easily move data to other applications for further analysis, or for inclusion in your presentations and reports.
The BenchLink Data Logger software can run connected to the computer, standalone in the instrument or even over the network when using the LAN interface on the 34972A.
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And the 34970A/34972A measures and converts 11 different input signals:
•temperature with thermocouples, RTDs, and thermistors
•dc and ac volts
•2- and 4-wire resistance
•frequency and period
•dc and ac current
What’s more, each channel is independently configurable. This means you can configure channel 1—for dcV, channel 2 for a K-type thermocouple, and channels 3 and 13 for a 4-wire RTD measurement—all on the same module, all in a single scan. For custom linear conversions, use the Mx+B scaling function on any channel. You can even display a custom 3-character engineering label like RPM or PSI to identify your measurement units.
Versatile alarms
Alarms are available on a per-channel basis as well.
Enter a high limit, a low limit, or both. The 34970A/34972A compares each reading to its limits and flags any out-of- range measurements. You can assign one of four TTL alarm outputs to any input channel to trigger external alarm lights, sirens, or send a TTL pulse to your control system, all without a PC connected.
Scanning made simple
The 34970A/34972A automatically builds a scan list that includes all configured inputs (even digital inputs from the Agilent 34907A multifunction module) in ascending order by channel number. You can pace scans by setting the 34970A/34972A’s internal timer for automatic scanning at a specific interval, by manually pressing a front-panel button, or by sending a software command or external TTL trigger pulse.
Monitor any input
A special display mode monitors a selected input channel, continuously updating the display with new readings—even during a scan. Or, when using the 34972A with built-in LAN, the channels can be monitored over the network using the graphical Web interface. It’s great for keeping an eye on a key input, or for troubleshooting your system before a test.
Non-volatile memory and USB flash drive adds convenience, portability
All readings are automatically time-stamped and stored in a nonvolatile 50,000 reading memory—enough memory to hold more than a week’s worth of data (20 channels
scanned every five minutes). The nonvolatile memory holds your data even after power is removed, so you can use the 34970A/34972A to collect data at a remote location for later uploading to a PC. Or if you need even more memory, the 34972A’s USB port can be used to log data directly
to a USB flash drive or to copy the data from the reading memory without being connected to a computer.
Data logging feature checklist
•From 1 to 120 channels of analog input
•Measurements include dc volts, ac volts, thermocouple, thermistor and RTD temperature measurements, 2- and 4-wire Ohms, dc current, ac current, frequency, and period
•6½ digits (22 bits) of resolution with 0.004% basic 1-year dcV accuracy
•50 k reading nonvolatile memory including timestamp
•Scaling and alarms available on each channel
•Full-featured front panel for stand-alone configuration, troubleshooting, and data viewing
•BenchLink Data Logger 3 software for configuration and data analysis
•Nonvolatile storage for five complete instrument states
•Built-in LAN or USB interfaces to support remote data logging applications (34972A only)
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