Keithley Keithley Instruments 2100/120 Manual

Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter

User’s Manual

2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007

A GREATER MEASURE OF CONFIDENCE

Test Equipment Depot - 800.517.8431 - 99 Washington Street Melrose, MA 02176 - TestEquipmentDepot.com

WARRANTY

Keithley Instruments, Inc. warrants this product to be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of
one (1) year from date of shipment.

Keithley Instruments, Inc. warrants the following items for 90
software, rechargeable batteries, diskettes, and documentation.

During the warranty period, Keithley Instruments will, at its option, either rep
to be defective.

To exercise this warranty, write or call your local Keithley Instruments representative, or contact
Keithley Instruments headquarters in Cleveland, Ohio. You will be given prompt assis
Send the product, transportation prepaid, to the indicated service facility. Repairs will be made and the product
returned, transportation prepaid. Repaired or replaced products are warranted for the balance of the original
warranty period, or at least 90 days.

days from the date of shipment: probes, cables,

air or replace any product that proves

tance and return instructions.

LIMITATION OF WARRANTY

This warranty does not apply to defects resulting from product modification without Keithley Instruments’ express
written consent, or misuse of any product or part. This warranty also does not apply to fuses, software,
non-rechargeable batteries, damage from battery leakage, or
instructions.

THIS WARRANTY IS IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING ANY
IMPLIED W
PROVIDED HEREIN ARE BUYER’S SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDIES.

NEITHER KEITHLEY INSTRUMENTS, INC. NOR ANY OF ITS EMPLOYEES
DIRECT, INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF THE USE
OF ITS INSTRUMENTS AND SOFTWARE, EVEN IF KEITHLEY INSTRUMENTS, INC. HAS BEEN ADVISED IN
ADVANCE OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. SUCH EXCLUDED DAMAGES SHALL INCLUDE, BUT
ARE NOT LIMITED TO: COST OF REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION, LOSSES SUSTAINED AS THE RESULT OF
INJURY TO ANY PERSON, OR DAMAGE TO PROPERTY.

ARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR USE. THE REMEDIES

problems arising from normal wear or failure to follow

SHALL BE LIABLE FOR ANY

A G R E A T E R M E A S U R E O F C O N F I D E N C E

3/07

Model 2100

6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter

User’s Manual

©2007, Keithley Instruments, Inc.

Document Number:

All rights reserved.

Cleveland, Ohio, U.S.A.

2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007

Manual Print History Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual

Manual Print History

The print history shown below lists the printing dates of all Revisions and Addenda created for this
manual. The Revision Level letter increases alphabetically as the manual undergoes subsequent
updates. Addenda, which are released between Revisions, contain important change information that
the user should incorporate immediately into the manual. Addenda are numbered sequentially. When a
new Revision is created, all Addenda associated with the previous Revision of the manual are
incorporated into the new Revision of the manual. Each new Revision includes a revised copy of this
print history page.

Revision A (Document Number 2100-900-01) .........................................................June 2007

Revision B (Document Number 2100-900-01) ...................

....................................... July 2007

All Keithley Instruments product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of Keithley Instruments, Inc.
Other brand names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders.

2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007

The following safety precautions should be observed before using this product and any associated instrumentation. Although some
instruments and accessories would normally be used with non-hazardous voltages, there are situations where hazardous conditions may
be present.

Safety Precautions

This product is intended for use by qualified personnel who recog
to avoid possible injury. Read and follow all installation, operation, and maintenance information carefully before using the product. Refer
to the user documentation for complete product specifications.

If the product is used in a manner not specified

The types of product users are:

Responsible body is the
operated within its specifications and operating limits, and for ensuring that operators are adequately trained.

Operators use
They must be protected from electric shock and contact with hazardous live circuits.

Maintenance personnel perform routine proce
replacing consumable materials. Maintenance procedures are described in the user documentation. The procedures explicitly state if the
operator may perform them. Otherwise, they should be performed only by service personnel.

Service personnel are trained to
personnel may perform installation and service procedures.

Keithley Instruments products are designed for use with electrical signals that a
Category II, as described in the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) Standard IEC 60664. Most measurement, control, and
data I/O signals are Measurement Category I and must not be directly connected to mains voltage or to voltage sources with high transient
over-voltages. Measurement Category II connections require protection for high transient over-voltages often associated with local AC
mains connections. Assume all measurement, control, and data I/O connections are for connection to Category I sources unless otherwise
marked or described in the user documentation.

the produ

individual or group responsible for the use and maintenance of equipment, for ensuring that the equipment is

ct for its intended function. They must be trained in electrical safety procedures and proper use of the instrument.

work on live circuits, perform safe installations, and repair products. Only properly trained service

, the protection provided by the product warranty may be impaired.

dures on the product to keep it operating properly, for example, setting the line voltage or

nize sho

ck hazards and are familiar with the safety precautions required

re rated Measurement Category I and Measurement

Exercise extreme caution when a shock hazard is prese
American National Standards Institute (ANSI) states that a shock hazard exists when voltage levels greater than 30V RMS, 42.4V peak,
or 60VDC are present. A good safety practice is to expect that hazardous voltage is present in any unknown circuit before measuring.

Operators of this product must be protected from ele
prevented access and/or insulated from every connection point. In some cases, connections must be exposed to potential human contact.
Product operators in these circumstances must be trained to protect themselves from the risk of electric shock. If the circuit is capable of
operating at or above 1000V, no conductive part of the circuit may be exposed.

Do not connect switching cards directly to unlimited power circuits. T
connect switching cards directly to AC mains. When connecting sources to switching cards, install protective devices to limit fault current
and voltage to the card.

Before operating an instrument, ensure that the line cord is con
cables, test leads, and jumpers for possible wear, cracks, or breaks before each use.

nt. Letha

ctric shock at

l voltage may be present on cable connector jacks or test fixtures. The

all times. The responsible body must ensure that operators are

hey are intended to be used with impedance-limited sources. NEVER

nected to a

properly-grounded power receptacle. Inspect the connecting

06/07

When installing equipment where access to the main power cord is restricted, such as rack mounting, a separate main input power

!

disconnect device must be provided in close proximity to the equipment and within easy reach of the operator.

For maximum safety, do not touch the product, test cables, or any other instruments w
ALWAYS remove power from the entire test system and discharge any capacitors before: connecting or disconnecting cables or jumpers,
installing or removing switching cards, or making internal changes, such as installing or removing jumpers.

Do not touch any object that could provide a current path to the common
make measurements with dry hands while standing on a dry, insulated surface capable of withstanding the voltage being measured.

The instrument and accessories must be used in ac
equipment may be impaired.

Do not exceed the maximum signal levels of the instruments a
and as shown on the instrument or test fixture panels, or switching card.

When fuses are used in a product, replace with the same type and rating for

Chassis connections must only be used as shield connections for measuring circu

If you are using a test fixture, keep the lid closed while power is applied to the device under test. Safe operation requires the us
interlock.

If a screw is present, connect it to safety earth ground us

The symbol on an instrument indicates that the user should refer to the operating instructions located in the user documentaion.

The symbol on an instrument shows that it can source or measure 1000V or more, includi
common mode voltages. Use standard safety precautions to avoid personal contact with these voltages.

cordance with its specifications and operating instructions, or the safety of the

nd accessories, as defined in the specifications and operating information,

ing the wire recommended in the user documentation.

side of the circuit under test or power line (earth) ground. Always

continued protection against fire hazard.

hile power is applied to the circuit under test.

its, NOT as safety earth ground connections.

e of a lid

ng the combined effect of normal and

The symbol on an instrument shows that the

The symbol indicates a connection terminal to the equipment frame.

If this symbol is on a product , it indicates that mercury is present in the display lamp. Please note that the lamp must be properly
disposed of according to federal, state, a

The WARNING heading in the user documentation explains dangers that might result in personal injury or death. Always read the
associated information very carefully before performing the indicated procedure.

The CAUTION heading
warranty.

Instrumentation and accessories shall not be connected to humans.

Before performing any maintenance, disconnect the line cord and all test cables.

To maintain protection from electric shock and fire, replacement compon
and input jacks - must be purchased from Keithley Instruments. Standard fuses with applicable national safety approvals may be used if
the rating and type are the same. Other components that are not safety-related may be purchased from other suppliers as long as they
are equivalent to the original component (note that selected parts should be purchased only through Keithley Instruments to maintain
accuracy and functionality of the product). If you are unsure about the applicability of a replacement component, call a Keithley Instruments
office for information.

To clean an instrument, use a damp cloth or mild, water-based clea
directly to the instrument or allow liquids to enter or spill on the instrument. Products that consist of a circuit board with no case or chassis
(e.g., a data acquisition board for installation into a computer) should never require cleaning if handled according to instructions. If the
board becomes contaminated and operation is affected, the board should be returned to the factory for proper cleaning/servicing.

in the user documentation explains hazards that could damage the instrument. Such damage may invalidate the

nd local laws.

surface may be hot. Avoid personal contact to prevent burns.

ents in mai

ner. Cle

ns circuits - including the power transformer, test leads,

an the exterior of the instrument only. Do not apply cleaner

Table of Contents

Section Topic Page

1 General Information .............................................................................. 1-1

Introduction .........

Feature overview ..........

Specifications..........

Manual addenda........

Precautions for operation........

Upkeep of the Model 2100.........

Safety information.........

Safety symbols and terms.........

Inspection for damage ........

Shipment contents ........

Instruction manual ........

Repacking for shipment..........

2 Getting Started ....................................................................................... 2-1

Overview..........

Setting up the Model 2100 Digital Multimeter.........

Adjusting the handle.........

Setting the line voltage........

Connecting the power .........

Changing the fuses .............................................................................. 2-9

Factory default settings ..........

Model 2100 familiarization.........

The front panel .......

The display ........................................................................................ 2-21

The rear panel........

3 Basic Measurement Functions........................................................... 3-1

Introduction .........

Voltage measurements (DC and AC) ........

How to measure voltage.........

Current measurements (DC and AC) ........

How to measure current.........

Resistance measurements (2- and 4-wire) ..........

How to measure resistance.......

Frequency and period measurements.......

How to measure frequency and period .........

Continuity measurements..........

How to measure the continuity.........

Diode measurements.......

How to measure a diode ........

RTD measurements.........

2-wire RTD measurements .......

3-wire RTD measurements .......

4-wire RTD measurements .......

........................................................................................ 1-2

.............................................................................. 1-2

.................................................................................... 1-3

................................................................................. 1-3

.................................................................... 1-3

................................................................. 1-3

.............................................................................. 1-4

........................................................... 1-4

........................................................................ 1-4

.............................................................................. 1-5

.............................................................................. 1-5

.................................................................... 1-5

........................................................................................... 2-2

.................................... 2-2

.................................................................... 2-2

................................................................. 2-4

................................................................. 2-7

............................................................ 2-18

............................................................... 2-19

............................................................................ 2-19

............................................................................ 2-23

........................................................................................ 3-2

................................................. 3-2

.............................................................. 3-3

................................................. 3-3

.............................................................. 3-3

....................................... 3-4

........................................................... 3-6

................................................. 3-6

....................................... 3-6

................................................................. 3-7

.................................................... 3-7

........................................................................... 3-7

.............................................................. 3-8

........................................................................... 3-8

........................................................... 3-8

........................................................... 3-9

......................................................... 3-10

Table of Contents Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual

Section Topic Page

4 Front Panel Operations ........................................................................ 4-1

Introduction .........

Measurement configuration ..........

Set ADC (Auto Zero and Au

Filter ..................................................................................................... 4-4

Resolution setting (digit

DC input resistance ..........

Threshold resistance (continuity).........

Range (manual and auto)..................................................................... 4-9

Rate (integration time).........

Sensor selection for temperature........

Measurements........

RTD .................................................................................................... 4-11

Input terminal switch.........

Trigger operations.........

Trigger mode ..........

Trigger source ........

Trigger setting.........

Math operations .........

Ratio ................................................................................................... 4-20

Percent) ........................................................................................ 4-21

% (

MIN/MAX .........

Null ..................................................................................................... 4-23

Lim

its test ........................................................................................... 4-24

MX+B.................................................................................................. 4-25

dB .

...................................................................................................... 4-26

dB

m .................................................................................................... 4-27

Other system-related operations.........

Display................................................................................................ 4-29

eper................................................................................................ 4-30

Be
Rea

ding memory (store and recall) .................................................... 4-31

Sensitivity band (Hold) ........

Initial mode ..........

Language ........................................................................................... 4-35

Error condition ........

Firmware revision .........

Calibration ......................................................................................... 4-40

5 Remote Interface Operations.............................................................. 5-1

Introduction .........

Pass/fail output from the USB connector .........

Setting up the remote interface........

Remote interface commands ........

Common commands ........

Other measurement configuration commands .......

Math operation commands........

Triggering .........

Triggering commands..........

System-related commands ........

Status reporting commands.......

Other interface commands........

6 Error Messages ...................................................................................... 6-1

Introduction .........

Execution errors.........

........................................................................................ 4-2

.............................................................. 4-2

to Gain) .................................................... 4-2

s) ..................................................................... 4-6

.................................................................... 4-7

................................................. 4-8

............................................................... 4-10

...................................................... 4-11

............................................................................ 4-11

.................................................................. 4-13

............................................................................ 4-14

............................................................................ 4-14

............................................................................ 4-16

............................................................................ 4-16

............................................................................... 4-19

................................................................................... 4-22

...................................................... 4-29

............................................................... 4-33

............................................................................... 4-34

............................................................................ 4-35

...................................................................... 4-36

........................................................................................ 5-2

.................................... 5-2

........................................................... 5-2

.............................................................. 5-3

.................................................................... 5-3

.............................. 5-7

........................................................... 5-7

........................................................................................... 5-8

................................................................. 5-8

................................................................. 5-9

........................................................... 5-9

......................................................... 5-10

........................................................................................ 6-2

................................................................................. 6-2

ii 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007

Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual Table of Contents

Appendix Topic Page

A Specifications ......................................................................................... A-1

B Remote Interface Reference................................................................ B-1

An introduction to SCPI language.......

Command format used in this manual.......

SCPI parameter types .........

Output data formats..........

The MEASure? command .................................................................... B-6

The CONFigure command ........

The measurement configuration command.........

The math operation command ........................................................... B-14

The triggering commands.......

The system-related commands ........

Other interface commands................................................................. B-20

Status reporting commands.......

Model 2100-specific SCPI compliance information..........

IEEE-488 compliance information ..........

About application programs ..........

Visual Basic 6 programming example 1: MEASure.bas.........

Visual Basic programming example 2: CONFigure..........

Visual C++ programming example: DEVQUERY............................... B-29

.................................................................... B-5

Index ........................................................................................................................... I-1

........................................................ B-2

........................................... B-2

................................................................. B-4

........................................................... B-7

................................. B-9

............................................................ B-17

.................................................. B-18

......................................................... B-20

.................. B-22

............................................ B-24

............................................................ B-24

............ B-24

.................. B-27

2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007 iii

Table of Contents Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual

This page left blank intentionally.

iv 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007

List of Figures

Section Figure Title Page

1 Figure 1-1 The Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter............. 1-2

2 Figure

Figure 2-2 Removing the handle from the multimeter .........

Figure 2-3 Default handle position.......

Figure 2-4 Operation handle position .........

Figure 2-5 Carrying position ..........

Figure 2-6 Disconnecting AC power.......

Figure 2-7 Opening the voltage setting selector.........

Figure 2-8 Removing the red voltage selector fuse holder.........

Figure 2-9 Inserting the voltage selector ..........

Figure 2-10 Powering-off the multimeter .........

Figure 2-11 Plugging in the power cord........

Figure 2-12 Switching on the power .........

Figure 2-13 Disconnecting the AC power........

Figure 2-14 Opening the voltage setting selector.........

Figure 2-15 Removing the red voltage setting selector .........

Figure 2-16 Removing the damaged power line fuse.........

Figure 2-17 Replacing the fuse ..........

Figure 2-18 Reinserting the voltage selector.........

Figure 2-19 Current protection using 3A and 7A current input fuses in series 2-13

Figure 2-20 Disconnecting the AC power........

Figure 2-21 Releasing the current input terminal fuse holder..........

Figure 2-22 Removing the current input terminal fuse holder .........

Figure 2-23 Removing and replacing the damaged fuse.......

Figure 2-24 Reinserting and securing the current input terminal fuse holder.. 2-16

Figure 2-25 Disconnecting the AC power........

Figure 2-26 Releasing the 7A current input fuse holder on the rear panel...... 2-17

re 2-27 Removing the 7A current input terminal fuse holder.......

Figu

Figure 2-28 Removing and replacing the damaged fuse.......

Figure 2-29 Reinserting and securing 7A current input terminal fuse holder .. 2-18

Figure 2-30 Front panel keys and terminals .......

Figure 2-31 The display .........

Figure 2-32 Annunciators at the top .........

Figure 2-33 Annunciators on the right ..........

Figure 2-34 The rear panel .......

2-1 Moving the handle to an upright position ....................................... 2-2

............................ 2-3

............................................................ 2-3

..................................................... 2-4

.................................................................. 2-4

......................................................... 2-5

..................................... 2-5

..................... 2-6

............................................... 2-7

.................................................. 2-7

..................................................... 2-8

......................................................... 2-8

................................................ 2-10

................................... 2-10

.......................... 2-11

............................. 2-11

............................................................. 2-12

.......................................... 2-12

................................................ 2-14

................ 2-14

................ 2-15

.......................... 2-15

................................................ 2-16

............. 2-17

.......................... 2-18

............................................. 2-20

.......................................................................... 2-22

....................................................... 2-22

................................................... 2-23

....................................................................... 2-23

List of Figures Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual

Section Figure Title Page

3 Figure 3-1 Model 2100 DC connections.......................................................... 3-2

Figure 3-2 Model 2100 AC connections.........

Figure 3-3 Model 2100 rear panel input terminals..........

Figure 3-4 Model 2100 current measurement (front panel).........

Figure 3-5 Model 2100 current measurement ..........

Figure 3-6 Model 2100 2-wire resistance ..........

Figure 3-7 Model 2100 4-wire resistance ..........

Figure 3-8 Model 2100 rear panel 2-wire resistance measurement .........

Figure 3-9 Model 2100 rear panel 4-wire resistance measurement .........

Figure 3-10 Model 2100 2-wire resistance / continuity........

Figure 3-11 Model 2100 general purpose diode ........

Figure 3-12 Theory diagram of 2-wire RTD measurement.........

Figure 3-13 Theory diagram of 3-wire RTD measurement.........

Figure 3-14 Theory diagram of 4-wire RTD measurement.........

................................................. 3-2

................................. 3-3

.................... 3-4

....................................... 3-4

.............................................. 3-5

.............................................. 3-5

....... 3-5

....... 3-6

.............................. 3-7

....................................... 3-8

....................... 3-9

....................... 3-9

..................... 3-10

4 Figure 4-1 Setting Auto Zero and Auto

Figure 4-2 Setting the AC Filter using the front panel .......

Figure 4-3 Front panel resolution .........

Figure 4-4 Front panel DCV ........

Figure 4-5 Front panel threshold resistance.........

Figure 4-6 Front panel auto-range .......

Figure 4-7 Front panel input switch terminals ..........

Figure 4-8 Trigger operation flow chart ..........

Figure 4-9 Toggle auto triggering on and off ........

Figure 4-10 Single trigger.......

Figure 4-11 Trig submenu .........

Figure 4-12 Reading hold.......

Figure 4-13 Setting delay time from the front panel .........

Figure 4-14 Making a Ratio measurement from the front panel.......

Figure 4-15 Making a percent measurement from the front panel ..........

Figure 4-16 Using MIN/MAX from the front panel .........

Figure 4-17 Using the NULL function from the front panel.........

Figure 4-18 Configuring the Limits function from the front panel ........

Figure 4-19 Making a limits test from the front panel .......

Figure 4-20 Using the MX+B function from the front panel ........

Figure 4-21 Setting the relative reference value ........

Figure 4-22 Making a dB measurement from the front panel........

Figure 4-23 Setting the refere

Figure 4-24 Making a dBm measurement from the front panel........

Figure 4-25 The Model 2100 dot-matrix display screen..........

Figure 4-26 Controlling the display from the front pa

Figure 4-27 Controlling the beeper from the front panel .....

Figure 4-28 Storing readings from the front panel.........

Figure 4-29 Recalling readings from the front p

Figure 4-30 Adjusting the sensitivity band from the front panel .......

Figure 4-31 Saving or restoring default settings.........

Figure 4-32 Selecting a language .......

Figure 4-33 Checking the error queue ..........

Figure 4-34 Checking the firmware revision........

Figure 4-35 Installing the Model 2100 firmwa

Figure 4-36 The Open dialog box........

Figure 4-37 Model 2100 firmware upgrade in progress ..........

Figure 4-38 Restart device to complete update message..........

Figure 4-39 Viewing calibration information ........

.................................................................... 4-8

......................................................................... 4-16

...................................................................... 4-17

......................................................................... 4-18

nce resistance from the front panel .................. 4-28

Gain from the front panel................... 4-3

.............................. 4-5

........................................................... 4-7

........................................... 4-9

......................................................... 4-10

..................................... 4-13

............................................... 4-14

......................................... 4-15

............................... 4-19

............... 4-20

........ 4-21

.................................. 4-22

..................... 4-23

............ 4-24

............................... 4-25

..................... 4-26

..................................... 4-27

.................. 4-27

............... 4-29

........................ 4-29

nel ................................. 4-30

............................ 4-31

.................................. 4-32

anel ....................................... 4-33

............... 4-34

..................................... 4-35

............................................................ 4-35

.................................................. 4-36

............................................ 4-37

re update ................................. 4-37

............................................................ 4-38

........................ 4-38

..................... 4-39

............................................ 4-40

vi 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007

List of Tables

Section Table Title Page

2 Table 2-1

Table 2-2 Factory default ............................................................................. 2-18

4 Table 4-1 Relationship of resolution to Auto Gain .....

Table 4-2 AC filters default settings........

Table 4-3 Default factors........

Table 4-4 Default measurements........

Table 4-5 Valid values of Save Data..........

5 Table 5-1 USB connector pin out and designations......

6 Table 6-1 Execution error codes......

Available voltage setting selectors for local line power requirements 2-6

.................................... 4-3

....................................................... 4-4

...................................................................... 4-11

......................................................... 4-18

.................................................. 4-34

.............................................................. 6-2

................................. 5-2

List of Tables Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual

This page left blank intentionally.

viii 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007

In this section:

Top ic Pa ge

Introduction ......................................................................................... 1-2

Feature overview ................................................................................ 1-2

Specifications ...................................................................................... 1-3

Manual addenda ................................................................................. 1-3

Precautions for operation .................................................................... 1-3

Upkeep of the Model 2100 .................................................................. 1-3

Safety information ............................................................................... 1-4

Inspection for damage ........................................................................ 1-4

Shipment contents .............................................................................. 1-5

Instruction manual............................................................................... 1-5

Repacking for shipment ...................................................................... 1-5

Section 1

General Information

Safety symbols and terms ............................................................ 1-4

Section 1: General Information Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual

Introduction

This section contains general information about the Keithley Instruments Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit
Resolution Digital Multimeter. The information is organized as follows:

• Feature overview

• Manual addenda

• Precautions for operation

• Upkeep of the Model 2100

• Safety information

• Inspection for damage

• Shipment contents

• Instruction manual

• Repacking for shipment

Feature overview

Figure 1-1

The Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter

The Keithley Instruments Model 2100 is a rugged and versatile 6 1/2-digit resolution digital
multimeter
basic resistance accuracy at 10kΩ range. At 6 1/2 digits, the multimeter delivers 50 triggered
RDGS/sec via the USB remote interface. At the fast 4 1/2-digit setting, it reads over 2000 RDGS/
sec into its internal buffer.

• Resolution: 6 1/2 digits

• 5x7 dot-matrix VFD, dual displays with 3-color annunciators

• Eleven standard measurement functions an

• Stability, accuracy, and speed

• Built-in USB interfaces

• DC voltage: 0.1V, 1V, 10V, 100V, and 1000V

• AC voltage: 0.1V, 1V, 10V, 100V, and 750V

• DC current: 10mA, 100mA, 1A, and 3A

• AC current: 1A, and 3A

• Two and 4-wire resistance: 100Ω, 1KΩ, 10

. It has 0.003% one-year basic DC voltage accuracy at 10V range and 0.005% one-year

d eight ma

KΩ, 100KΩ, 1MΩ, 10MΩ, a

th functions

nd 100MΩ

1-2 Return to Section Topics 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007

Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual Section 1: General Information

• Frequency: From 3Hz to 300kHz

• Period measurement

• Diode measurement

• Continuity measurement for resistance

Some additional capabilities of the Model 2100 include:

• Temperature measurement using RTDs

• Full math functions: dB, dBm, MX+B, ratio, percentage, Max/Min, null, and limits

• TMC compliant USB remote control interface for PC control

•Microsoft
measured values from these applications

®

Office Word, and Excel add-in tools for remotely storing and recalling the

Specifications

Refer to Appendix A of this manual for complete Model 2100 specifications.

Manual addenda

Any improvements or changes concerning the Model 2100 or manual will be explained in an
addendum included with the manual. Be sure to note these changes and incorporate them into the
manual.

Precautions for operation

• Please carefully read the manual before operating this device.

• This manual is for reference only. Please consult your local service representative for
further ass

• The contents of this manual may be amended by the manufacturer without notice.

• Never allow unauthorized personnel to dismantle the equipment, or equipment may be

amaged.

d

•

The equipment has been strictly tested for quality before delivery from our factory.

• Do not use the meter around explosive ga

• The patent and related documents for the equipment belong
and may not be used by others without permission.

istance.

Upkeep of the Model 2100

• Although the Model 2100 multimeter is very durable and weather resistant, care should be
taken not to expose it to severe impacts or forces.

• Keep the Model 2100 away from water and damp environments.

• Calibration should be performed every year. Please contact your local service

epresent

r

• If an incorrect display or abnormal beeps occur, you should stop using the equipment at

ce an

on

• Wipe the surface of the Model 2100 multimeter with a dr
clean any residue from the enclosure.

ative for more information.

d contact your local service representative.

s or flamma

ble vapors.

to Keithley Instruments, Inc.

y or

damp clean cloth to dust and

2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007 Return to Section Topics 1-3

Section 1: General Information Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual

!

Safety information

WARNING To avoid possible electric shock, personal injury, or death, please read and

follow these guidelines carefully:

• Follow the guidelines in this manual and DO NOT use the meter if the case is

damaged. Check the meter case and terminals, and make sure all the devices
are in the proper positions.

• Do not apply excessive voltage to the multimeter. Apply voltage within the

rated range only.

• Use caution when measuring voltages above 30V RMS, 42V peak, or 60V DC.

Higher voltages pose an electric shock hazard.

• When using the probes, always keep your fingers behind the finger guards.

• Always connect the common test leads (black) before connecting the live test

leads (red), and disconnect the live test leads (red) before disconnecting the
common test leads (black). This will reduce the chance of an electric shock.

• Disconnect circuit power and discharge all high-voltage capacitors before

testing resistance, continuity, diodes, or capacitance.

• Repairs must only be performed by qualified service personnel.

• When replacing fuses, use only the same type and same rating as specified.

Make sure the unit is disconnected from AC power and any external signals
first.

• Do not try to operate the meter if it is damaged. Disconnect the power from the

equipment and consult your local service representative. Return the product
to a Keithley Instruments service facility if necessary.

Safety symbols and terms

The following symbols and terms may be found on the Model 2100 or used in this manual.

The symbol indicates that the user should refer to the opera
manual.

The

symbol shows that high voltage may be present on the terminal(s). Use standard safety

precautions to avoid personal contac

Inspection for damage

The Model 2100 was carefully inspected electrically and mechanically before shipment. After
unpacking all items from the shipping carton, check for any obvious signs of physical damage that
may have occurred during transit. Report any damage to the shipping agent immediately. Save the
original packing carton for possible future shipment.

ting instructions located in the

t with these voltages.

1-4 Return to Section Topics 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007

Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual Section 1: General Information

Shipment contents

The following items are included with every Model 2100 order:

• One Model 2100 Multimeter unit (112mm/4.4in (H) x 256

4.1Kg/9lbs)

• One power line cord

• One USB cable

• Standard safety test leads

• One CD-ROM (including this electronic User's Manual and software applications)

Instruction manual

A CD-ROM containing this User’s Manual and required software and drivers is included with each
Model 2100 order.

Repacking for shipment

Should it become necessary to return the Model 2100 for repair, carefully pack the unit in its
original packing carton or the equivalent, and follow these instructions:

• Call the Repair Department at 1-888-KEITHLEY (1-888-534-8453) for a Return Material
Authorizat

• Advise as to the warranty status of the Model 2100.

• Write ATTENTION REPAIR DEPARTMENT and th

ion (RMA) number.

mm/10.1in (W) x 375/14.75in (D),

e RMA n

umber on the shipping label.

Complete and include the Service Form lo

cated at the back of this manual.

2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007 Return to Section Topics 1-5

Section 1: General Information Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual

This page left blank intentionally.

1-6 Return to Section Topics 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007

In this section:

Top ic Pa ge

Overview ............................................................................................. 2-2

Setting up the Model 2100 Digital Multimeter ..................................... 2-2

Model 2100 familiarization .................................................................. 2-19

Section 2

Getting Started

Adjusting the handle ..................................................................... 2-2

Setting the line voltage ................................................................. 2-4

Connecting the power................................................................... 2-7

Changing the fuses....................................................................... 2-9

Factory default settings ................................................................ 2-18

The front panel.............................................................................. 2-19

The display ................................................................................... 2-21

The rear panel .............................................................................. 2-23

Section 2: Getting Started Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual

Overview

This section will give you an overview of the Keithley Instruments Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit
Resolution Multimeter’s basic features and guide you through the basics of the Model 2100.

Setting up the Model 2100 Digital Multimeter

The purpose of this section is to prepare you to use the Model 2100 Digital Multimeter (DMM). You
should check whether you have all the parts needed to operate your multimeter. All Keithley
Instruments products are handled and inspected professionally before shipping out to our
customers. If you find any damaged or missing parts, please contact your local service
representative immediately. Do not attempt to operate a damaged product; if you have any doubt
about the condition of your Model 2100, please contact your local service representative.

Adjusting the handle

You may adjust the carrying handle to suit your needs. Figures 2-1, 2-2, 2-3, 2-4, and 2-5 show
you how to adjust the handle.

Removing the handle

Step 1: Move the handle to an upright position.

Pull slightly outward on both sides of the handle, an

Figure 2-1

Moving the handle to an upright position

d slowly rotate it up as shown in Figure 2-1.

Step 2:

When
(refer

2-2 Return to Section Topics 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007

Remove the handle

the handle is turned up to a 90° angle with the multimeter, pull it away from the multimeter

to Figure 2-2).

Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual Section 2: Getting Started

FILTER

NEXT

PREV

DIGITS

RATIO

%

MIN/MAX

NULL

ESC

ENTER

AUTO

SINGLE

TRIGGER

STORE

RECALL

LOCAL

SHIFT

CONFIG

MENU

AUTO

DCV

ACV

22

FREQ

CONT

TEMP

4 WIRE

RATIO

V

INPUT

PEAK

200V
PEAK

HI

LO

PEAK

500V

3A

RMS

INPUTS

3A250V

FRONT/REAR

AMPS

R

1000V

REF

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

LOCK

SETUP

ACV

22

FUNCTION

DCI ACI

4

PERIOD

LIMITS MX+B

dB

EXTRIG HOLD

MATH

TRIGGER MEMORY

dBm

RANGE

DISPLAY

NEXT

PREV

POWER

OFF
ON

SENSE

F

Figure 2-2

Removing the handle from the multimeter

Adjusting the handle position

You can adjust the Model 2100’s handle to suit your needs:

Position 1: Default

The default position is used for packing the Model 2100 (refer to Figur

Figure 2-3

Default handle position

Position 2: Operating

The adjusted handle position shown in Figur

e 2-4 is for multimeter operation.

e 2-3).

2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007 Return to Section Topics 2-3

Section 2: Getting Started Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual

Figure 2-4

Operation handle position

Position 3: Carrying

The carrying position is shown in Figure 2-

Figure 2-5

Carrying position

Setting the line voltage

WARNING Before changing the setting, ensure that the multimeter is disconnected from

the AC power.

Step 1: Disconnect AC

Verify that the meter is disconnected from AC power as shown in Figure 2

5.

power

-6.

2-4 Return to Section Topics 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007

Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual Section 2: Getting Started

Figure 2-6

Disconnecting AC power

Step 2: Open the voltage setting selector

Open the voltage setting selector cap as shown in Figur
required).

Figure 2-7

Opening the voltage setting selector

e 2-7 (a flat blade screwdriver may be

Step 3: Remove the red voltage setting selector

igur

Remove the red voltage selector fuse holder from the right middle seam as shown in F

e 2-8 (a

flat blade screwdriver may be required).

2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007 Return to Section Topics 2-5

Section 2: Getting Started Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual

Figure 2-8

Removing the red voltage selector fuse holder

Step 4: Change the voltage setting

Turn the voltage setting to the correct setting.

NOTE To accommodate differing local area power requirements, Keithley Instruments has three

available models of voltage setting selectors for the Model 2100 (each with two voltage
settings). The voltage setting selector included with your Model 2100 should have the
appropriate voltage settings for your area's line power requirements. If you do not have
the correct voltage setting selector, please contact your local Keithley Instruments
representative to request the correct model (see Table 2-1, below).

Table 2-1

Available voltage setting selectors for local line power requirements

Model number Voltage select options Voltage set to:

2100/120 120/240 120
2100/230-240 120/240 240
2100/220 120/220 220

Step 5: Insert the voltage selector

the

Insert the voltage setting selector back into

socket and close the cap as shown in Figure 2-9.

2-6 Return to Section Topics 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007

Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual Section 2: Getting Started

2

V

2

Figure 2-9

Inserting the voltage selector

Connecting the power

Power-off the multimeter

Ensure that the power switch on the front panel is in the "POWER
the Model 2100 in (refer to Figure 2-10).

Figure 2-10

Powering-off the multimeter

DCI ACI

PREV

DCV

ACV

DISPLAY

NEXT

OFF
ON

POWER

Plug-in the power cord

After finishing the above procedures, you can plug-in

ACV

FILTER

DIGITS

EXTRIG HOLD

AUTO

SINGLE

TRIGGER

TRIGGER MEMORY

FUNCTION

4

PERIOD

2

2

FREQ

LIMITS MX+B

RATIO

%

RECALL

STORE

MATH

CONT

dBm

MIN/MAX

LOCAL

TEMP

dB

NULL

SHIFT

OFF" position before plugging

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

4 WIRE

RATIO
REF

INPUTS

LO

RMS

INPUT

HI

1000V

PEAK

3A

500V
PEAK

R

3A 250V

AMPS

PREV

LOCK

ESC

CONFIG

SETUP

NEXT

ENTER

MENU

RANGE

AUTO

PEAK

200V

F

SENSE

FRONT/REAR

your power cord as shown in Figure 2-11.

2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007 Return to Section Topics 2-7

Section 2: Getting Started Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual

FILTER

NEXT

PREV

DIGITS

RATIO

%

MIN/MAX

NULL

ESC

ENTER

AUTO

SINGLE

TRIGGER

STORE

RECALL

LOCAL

SHIFT

CONFIG

MENU

AUTO

DCV

ACV

22

FREQ

CONT

TEMP

4 WIRE

RATIO

V

INPUT

PEAK

200V

PEAK

HI

LO

PEAK

500V

3A

RMS

INPUTS

3A 250V

FRONT/REAR

AMPS

R

1000V

REF

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

LOCK

SETUP

ACV

22

FUNCTION

DCI ACI

4

PERIOD

LIMITS MX+B

dB

EXTRIG HOLD

MATH

TRIGGER MEMORY

dBm

RANGE

DISPLAY

NEXT

PREV

POWER

OFF
ON

SENSE

F

Figure 2-11

Plugging in the power cord

Switch the power on

Press the power switch on the front panel to activate the Model 2100 as shown in Fig

ure 2-12.

Figure 2-12

Switching on the power

Check the power-line voltage on the rear panel to see if the voltage setting is correct for your area.
Change the setting

if it is not correct by following the steps in “Setting the line voltage” later in this

section.

2-8 Return to Section Topics 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007

Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual Section 2: Getting Started

WARNING Before connecting power to the Model 2100, ensure that the fuse is intact.

Refer to “Changing the fuses” later in this section if the fuse is open/blown.

WARNING The main power input voltage to the unit must be selected correctly according

to the local installation’s power supply. Check the voltage indication window
on the power module at the back of the unit to verify the voltage setting is
correctly set. If the voltage is not correctly set, refer to “Setting the line

voltage” below.

WARNING The power cord supplied with the Model 2100 contains a separate ground wire

for use with grounded outlets. When proper connections are made, the
instrument chassis is connected to power line ground through the ground
wire in the power cord. Failure to use a grounded outlet may result in personal
injury or death due to electric shock.

Changing the fuses

WARNING Before replacing the power-line fuse or current input fuses, verify that the

multimeter is disconnected from AC power. You must be qualified personnel
to perform this action.

CAUTION For continued protection against fire or instrument damage, only replace the

fuses with the same type and rating. If the instrument repeatedly blows fuses,
have the unit serviced at an authorized repair facility.

Power line fuse

A power-line fuse located next to the AC receptacle (in the voltage setting selector) protects the
power line input of the instrument. Verify that the power-line fuse is good and replace it with a new
one if it is damaged. The Model 2100 is shipped from the factory with a 0.25A/250V, 5×20mm
slow-blow glass fuse installed (Keithley Instruments part number FU-96-4). This is the correct fuse
type for all line voltage settings; use only this type of replacement fuse.

To change the power line fuse:

Step 1: Disconnect the AC power

Verify that the meter is disconnected from AC power as shown in Figur

e 2-13.

2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007 Return to Section Topics 2-9

Section 2: Getting Started Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual

Figure 2-13

Disconnecting the AC power

Step 2: Open the voltage setting selector

Open the voltage setting selector cap as shown in Figu
so).

Figure 2-14

Opening the voltage setting selector

re 2-14 (you will need a screwdriver to do

Step 3: Remove the red voltage setting selector

ur

Remove the red voltage setting selector from the right middle seam as shown in Fig

e 2-15 (you

might need a screwdriver to do so).

2-10 Return to Section Topics 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007

Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual Section 2: Getting Started

Figure 2-15

Removing the red voltage setting selector

Step 4: Remove the damaged power line fuse

Remove the damaged fuse from the selector as shown in Fig

Figure 2-16

Removing the damaged power line fuse

ure 2-16.

Step 5: Replace the power line fuse

Replace with the new fuse as shown in Fig

2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007 Return to Section Topics 2-11

ure 2-17.

Section 2: Getting Started Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual

Figure 2-17

Replacing the fuse

Step 6: Reinsert the voltage selector

Insert the voltage setting selector back into the socket and close

CAUTION Verify that the correct voltage setting appears in the red voltage selection

the cap as shown in Figure 2-18.

window in the power module before powering up the unit. Refer to
“Connecting the power” earlier in this section for instructions on how to
correctly power up the unit.

Figure 2-18

Reinserting the voltage selector

2-12 Return to Section Topics 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007

Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual Section 2: Getting Started

Current input fuses

The Model 2100 has two 3A fuses in the front and rear current input terminals, and an additional
7A fuse in series with either the front or rear current input fuse (depending on the front or rear
panel switch position) for added protection against a strong current pulse. If a strong current pulse
overloads the 7A fuse, it will blow quickly, thus saving the 3A fuse and the instrument's internal
circuitry (see Figure 2-19).

Figure 2-19

Current protection using 3A and 7A current input fuses in series

The two main fuses located in the front and rear current input terminals of your Model 2100 are 3A,

50V, 5x20

2
current input fuse is a 7A, 250V, 5x20mm fast-acting ceramic tube fuse. See the following text for
instructions on how to replace these fuses if they become damaged.

mm fast-acting glass fuses (Keithley Instruments part number FU-99-1). The additional

To change the 3A front or rear panel current input terminal fuses:

WARNING Before replacing the power line fuse or current input fuses, verify that the

multimeter is disconnected from AC power. You must be qualified personnel
to perform this procedure.

CAUTION For continued protection against fire or instrument damage, only replace the

fuses with the same type and rating. If the instrument repeatedly blows fuses,
have the unit serviced at an authorized repair facility.

NOTE Instructions for replacing the front panel current input terminal fuse are depicted here; the

rear panel current input terminal fuse can be changed using the same procedure.

2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007 Return to Section Topics 2-13

Section 2: Getting Started Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual

Step 1: Disconnect the AC power

Verify that the meter is disconnected from AC power, as shown in Fig

Figure 2-20

Disconnecting the AC power

Step 2: Release the current input terminal fuse holder

Push the current input terminal in and turn it to

the right (see Figure 2-21) to release it.

ure 2-20.

Figure 2-21

Releasing the current input terminal fuse holder

Step 3: Remove the current input terminal fuse holder

Gently pull out the current input terminal fuse holder to expos
(see Figure 2-22).

e the current input fuse

2-14 Return to Section Topics 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007

Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual Section 2: Getting Started

Figure 2-22

Removing the current input terminal fuse holder

Step 4: Remove and replace the damaged fuse

Remove the damaged fuse and replace it with the same type and rating of fuse (see Figur

Figure 2-23

Removing and replacing the damaged fuse

Step 5: Reinsert and secure the current input terminal fuse holder

Reinsert the current input terminal fuse holder, turning it to the left as you push it in
(see Figure 2-24). Ensure that the fuse holder is properly seated and secured.

e 2-23).

2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007 Return to Section Topics 2-15

Section 2: Getting Started Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual

Figure 2-24

Reinserting and securing the current input terminal fuse holder

WARNING Before reconnecting the power line cord to your multimeter, make sure that

the power switch is in the "POWER OFF" position.

To change the 7A current input fuse on the rear panel:

Step 1: Disconnect the AC power

Verify that the meter is disconnected from AC power, as shown in Fig

Figure 2-25

Disconnecting the AC power

ure 2-25.

Step 2: Release the current input terminal fuse holder

Using a flat-blade screwdriver, turn the 7A current input fuse holder on the rear panel to the left
until it is released (s

2-16 Return to Section Topics 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007

ee Figure 2-26).

Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual Section 2: Getting Started

Figure 2-26

Releasing the 7A current input fuse holder on the rear panel

Step 3: Remove the current input terminal fuse holder

Gently pull out the current input terminal fuse holder to expose the 7A current input

fuse (see Fig

ure 2-27).

Figure 2-27

Removing the 7A current input terminal fuse holder

Step 4: Remove and replace the damaged fuse

Remove the damaged fuse and replace it with the same type and rating of fuse (see Fig

2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007 Return to Section Topics 2-17

ure 2-28).

Section 2: Getting Started Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual

Figure 2-28

Removing and replacing the damaged fuse

Step 5: Reinsert and secure the 7A current input terminal fuse holder

Reinsert the 7A current input terminal fuse holder, turnin

g it to the right as you push it in (see

Figure 2-29). Ensure that the fuse holder is properly seated and secured.

Figure 2-29

Reinserting and securing the 7A current input terminal fuse holder

WARNING Before reconnecting the power line cord to your multimeter, ensure that the

power switch is in the "POWER OFF" position.

Factory default settings

Table 2-2 shows the factory default settings for the Model 2100.

Table 2-2

Factory default

Function Default

Function DCV
Autozero On
Frequency and period source AC voltage
Output format ASCII
Ratio Off
AC bandwidth Input frequency 20Hz

2-18 Return to Section Topics 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007

Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual Section 2: Getting Started

Table 2-2

Factory default

Function Default

Function DCV
Voltage AC digits 5.5

DC digits Slow 5.5 (1 PLC)
Range Auto

Current AC digits 5.5

DC digits slow 5.5 (1 PLC)
Range Auto

Frequency and period AC digits 5.5

Range Auto
Rate Medium (100ms)

Diode Test Digits 5.5

Range 1mA
Rate 0.1 PLC

Resistance (2-wire) Digits Slow 5.5 (1 PLC)

Range Auto

Triggers Source Immediate

Delay Auto

Input Resistance 10MΩ

Model 2100 familiarization

The Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter consists of three major parts: the front
panel, the display, and the rear panel. Following is a discussion of these components.

The front panel

The keys and terminals on the front panel are divided into the following groups (refer to

Figure 2-30):

• DISPLAY and POWER

• FUNCTION, MATH, TRIG

• FILTER, DIGITS, LOCAL, and SHIFT

GER, MEMORY, SETUP, RANGE, and INPUT TERMINALS

2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007 Return to Section Topics 2-19

Section 2: Getting Started Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual

FILTER

NEXT

PREV

DIGITS

RATIO

%

MIN/MAX

NULL

ESC

ENTER

AUTO

SINGLE

TRIGGER

STORE

RECALL

LOCAL

SHIFT

CONFIG

MENU

AUTO

DCV

ACV

22

FREQ

CONT

TEMP

4 WIRE

RATIO

V

INPUT

PEAK

200V

PEAK

HI

LO

PEAK

500V

3A

RMS

INPUTS

3A 250V

FRONT/REAR

AMPS

R

1000V

REF

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

LOCK

SETUP

ACV

22

FUNCTION

DCI ACI

4

PERIOD

LIMITS MX+B

dB

EXTRIG HOLD

MATH

TRIGGER MEMORY

dBm

RANGE

DISPLAY

NEXT

PREV

POWER

OFF

ON

SENSE

F

1

5432

Figure 2-30

Front panel keys and terminals

1. DISPLA

Y and POWER keys:

i. DISPLAY: Shows model, version and condition by pressing the PREV and NEXT

keys

ii. POWER: Activates the Model 2100 digital multimeter

2. FUNCTION keys:
a. First row without SHIFT key:
i. DCV: Selects DC voltage measurement
ii. ACV: Selects AC voltage measurement
iii. Ω2: Selects 2-wire resistance measurement
iv. FREQ: Selects frequency measurement
v. CONT: Selects the continuity test
b. First row with SHIFT key:
i. DCI: Selects DC current measurement
ii. ACI: Selects AC current measurement
iii. Ω4: Selects 4-wire resistance measurement

iv. PERIOD: Selects period measurement
v. : Selects diode testing
c. Second row without SHIFT key:
i. FILTER: Enables or disables the digital filter
ii. DIGITS: Changes the resolution
iii. RATIO: Enables the dcv:dcv ratio function
iv. %: Calculates the ratio to a target value in percentage
v. MIN/MAX: Captures the minimum or maximum readings from the measurement
vi. NULL: Activates the offset function in order to get the real measured reading
d. Second row with SHIFT key:
i. LIMITS: Used for setting upper and lower limit values for readings
ii. MX+B: Used for calculating slope. X is the normal display reading; M and B are

iii. dBm: Used for displaying voltage measurement in dBm power unit
iv. dB: Used for displaying voltage measurement in decibel unit
e. Third row without

2-20 Return to Section Topics 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007

constants specified by user for scale factor and offset

SHIFT key:

Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual Section 2: Getting Started

i. SINGLE: Manually triggers the multimeter to make measurements
ii. AUTO TRIGGER: Instructs the multimeter to make measurements continuously
iii. STORE: Stores a specified number of subsequent readings
iv. RECALL: Displays stored readings. Use the left and right

arrow keys or the up and down arrow keys to toggle between reading number and
reading

v. LOCAL: Cancels USB remote mode
vi. SHIFT (in blue): Used to select functions that appear on keys in blue uppercase

text

f. Third row with SHIFT key:
i. EXTRIG: Selects external triggers as the trigger source via BNC port on the rear

panel

ii. HOLD: Holds a reading

3. SETUP keys:
a. First row in SETUP section:
i. : Scrolls through the buffer, conceals or reveals the digits while measuring
b. Second row in SETUP section:
i. ESC: Cancels selection, moving back to the measurement display
ii. ENTER: Accepts selection, moving to next choice or back to the measurement

display

iii. LOCK: Press SHIFT then ESC key to prevent unpredictable operation on the

panel; to release the lock condition, press ESC again
c. Third row in SETUP section:
i. CONFIG: Allows setting or adjustment functions relating to some front panel keys
ii. MENU: Allows setting or adjustment functions not relating to other front panel

keys

4. RANGE keys:
i. : Moves to higher range
ii. : Moves to lower range
iii. AUTO: Enables or disables auto-range

5. INPUTS (TERMINALS) toggle button, FUSE device connection, and inserted connections:
i. : TERMINALS toggle button: Selects input signal

connections on front or rear panel
ii. Input

iii. LO and I: Used for making DC and AC current measurements
iv. Front FUSE: Secures your meter against damage by strong current pulses

HI and

temperature measurements

AMPS: Used with INPUT LO for DCI and ACI measurements; also

holds current fuse for front panel amps input

SENSE HI and LO: Used with INPUT HI and LO for O4 and RTD temperature

measurements

(maximum current: 3A, 250V)

LO: Used for DCV, ACV, O2, CONT, FREQ, PERIOD, and RTD

The display

The Model 2100 has a 5x7 character dot-matrix, dual-line display with three-color (white, red, and
yellow) annunciators for easy viewing. There are two rows in the dual-display screen. The upper
row displays both readings and measurement units. A maximum of 13 characters is possible for
the upper row dot-matrix display. The lower row displays the range of the measurements and
conditions, or information about the current configuration. A maximum of 16 characters is possible

2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007 Return to Section Topics 2-21

Section 2: Getting Started Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual

for the lower row dot-matrix display. There are additional annunciators above and on the right side
of the display screen that indicate the state or condition of an ongoing measurement. They are
explained individually in the following sections.

Figure 2-31

The display

Annunciators at the top

Figure 2-32

Annunciators at the top

• RMT (REMOTE): In

• MAN: Indica

• TRIG: Shows that single triggering is enabled

• HOLD: Indicates r

• MEM: Indicates th

• RATIO: Indicates

• MATH: In

• ERR: Erro

• SHIFT: In

• REAR: The r

• FILT: The

• 4W: Indicates remote sense

• EXT: Indicates exter

tes the manual range mode is selected

dicates the MATH operation is enabled

r occurred

dicates the SHIFT button was pressed

digital filter is enabled

dicates the re

e

ading hold function is enabled

e use of internal reading memory

the dcv:dcv ratio operation

ear panel input terminal is selected for the measurement

nal trig

ger

mote state (USB Interface)

2-22 Return to Section Topics 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007

Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual Section 2: Getting Started

LIN E

120V

240V

240V

Annunciators on the right

• 4W: Indicates 4-wire mode is selected for resistance measurement

• : Indicates that continuity testing is ena

bled

• : Indicates the diode testing operation was initiated

• EXT

: Indicates the Exte

rnal Trigger mode is been enabled

• LOCK: Indicates the front panel menu operation is locked

• OFF: Indicat

es the front panel display is turned off

Figure 2-33

Annunciators on the right

The rear panel

The rear panel of the Model 2100 is shown in Figure 2-34. This figure includes important
abbreviated information that should be reviewed before using the instrument.

Figure 2-34

The rear panel

1

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

*T w0 00 01 00 0*

MADE IN

TAIWA N

WARNI NG

NO INTERNAL SERVICEABLE PARTS, SERVICE

BY QUAL IFIED PERSONNEL ONLY.

CAUTION:

FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST FIRE HAZARD.

REPLACE FUSE WITH SAME TYPE AND RATING.

120V

240V

240V

432

1. Inserted connections and fuse devices:
a. Input

HI and

temperature measurements
AMPS: Used with INPUT LO for DCI and ACI measurements; also
holds current fuse for front panel amps input
SENSE HI and LO: Use with INPUT HI and LO for O4 and RTD temperature

measurements
b. LO and I: Used for making AC and DC current measurements
c. Rear fuse: Secures the meter against damage by strong current pulses

2. USB connection:

a. Connects a remote computer to operate the meter (instead of the front panel control)

3. Chassis ground terminal

4. Power module:

LO: Used for DCV, ACV, O2, CONT, FREQ, PERIOD, and RTD

2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007 Return to Section Topics 2-23

Section 2: Getting Started Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual

a. Contains the AC line receptacle, power line fuse, and line voltage setting

• Configured for line voltages of 120/220V or 120/240V (depending on the power
utility in your area)

2-24 Return to Section Topics 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007

In this section:

Top ic Pa ge

Introduction ......................................................................................... 3-2

Voltage measurements (DC and AC).................................................. 3-2

Current measurements (DC and AC).................................................. 3-3

Resistance measurements (2- and 4-wire) ......................................... 3-4

Frequency and period measurements ................................................ 3-6

Continuity measurements ................................................................... 3-7

Diode measurements .......................................................................... 3-7

RTD measurements ............................................................................ 3-8

Section 3

Basic Measurement Functions

How to measure voltage ............................................................... 3-3

How to measure current ............................................................... 3-3

How to measure resistance .......................................................... 3-6

How to measure frequency and period......................................... 3-6

How to measure the continuity ..................................................... 3-7

How to measure a diode............................................................... 3-8

2-wire RTD measurements........................................................... 3-8

3-wire RTD measurements........................................................... 3-9

4-wire RTD measurements........................................................... 3-10

Section 3: Basic Measurement Functions Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual

FILTER

NEXT

PREV

DIGITS

RATIO

%

MIN/MAX

NULL

ESC

ENTER

AUTO

SINGLE

TRIGGER

STORE

RECALL

LOCAL

SHIFT

CONFIG

MENU

AUTO

DCV

ACV

22

FREQ

CONT

TEMP

4 WIRE

RATIO

V

INPUT

PEAK

200V

PEAK

HI

LO

PEAK

500V

3A

RMS

INPUTS

3A 250V

FRONT/REAR

AMPS

R

1000V

REF

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

LOCK

SETUP

ACV

22

FUNCTION

DCI ACI

4

PERIOD

LIMITS MX+B

dB

EXTRIG HOLD

MATH

TRIGGER MEMORY

dBm

RANGE

DISPLAY

NEXT

PREV

POWER

OFF
ON

SENSE

F

CONFIG

3

2

1

DCV

4

AUTO

5

6

DC voltage
source

Input resistance = 10MΩ on 1000V and 100V ranges:

>

10GΩ

on 10V

, 1V, and 100mV ranges.

2

V

2

CONFIG

ACVACV

AUTO

Introduction

This section introduces some basic measurement functions of the Keithley Instruments Model
2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter
multimeter to measure voltage, current, resistance, frequency, period, continuity, and diode
forward voltage.

Voltage measurements (DC and AC)

The ranges for DC voltage (DCV) measurements for the Model 2100 are 100mV, 1V, 10V, 100V,
and 1000V. For AC voltage (ACV) measurements, the ranges are 100mV to 750V RMS, or 1000V
peak. Figures 3-1 and 3-2 show the locations of the keys needed and message displays for
voltage measurement. Figure 3-3 shows the location of the input t

WARNING Do not apply more than 1000V (peak) to the Model 2100 multimeter. Applying

excess voltage may damage your meter or cause possible electric shock,
resulting in personal injury or death.

NOTE To eliminate the thermal EMFs due to the differences between two metals, use copper

leads to connect your source signal to the meter.

Figure 3-1

Model 2100 DC connections

®

. You will learn how to use the Model 2100

er

minals on the rear panel.

Figure 3-2

Model 2100 AC connections

6

DCI ACI

PREV

DCV

ACV

ACV

DISPLAY

NEXT

OFF
ON

POWER

3-2 Return to Section Topics 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007

Input Impedence = 1MΩ in parallel with < 100pF
(Warning: Maximum input = 750V RMS, 1000V peak, 8x10’ V-Hz)

4

DIGITS

FILTER

EXTRIG HOLD

AUTO

SINGLE

TRIGGER

TRIGGER MEMORY

FUNCTION

4

2

2

LIMITS MX+B

RATIO

STORE

PERIOD

FREQ

%

RECALL

MATH

CONT

dBm

MIN/MAX

LOCAL

TEMP

dB

NULL

SHIFT

LOCK

CONFIG

PREV

ESC

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

INPUT

SENSE

4 WIRE

HI

RATIO

200V

REF

PEAK

NEXT

ENTER

MENU

RANGE

AUTO

INPUTS

F

5

1

FRONT/REAR

SETUP

3

1000V

PEAK

LO

3A

RMS

R

3A250V

AMPS

2

AC voltage
source

500V
PEAK

Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual Section 3: Basic Measurement Functions

AC
VM

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

LINE

120V120V

240V240V

240V240V

*T w0 00 01 00 0*

MADE IN

TAIWA N

NO INTERNAL SERVICEABLE PARTS, SERVICE

WARNING

BY QUAL IFIED PERSONNEL ONLY.

FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION A GAINST FIRE HA ZARD.

CAUTION:

REPLACEFUSEWITHSAMETYPEANDRATING.

DC
VM

or

VM = Voltage measurement

Figure 3-3

Model 2100 rear panel input terminals

NOTE Follow the same procedure when using either the front or rear panel terminals (refer to

Figure 3-3).

How to measure voltage

1. Select input signal connections on front or rear panel.

2. Connect the test leads to the terminals as shown in Figure 3-1 (DC) or Figure 3-2 (AC).

3. Set the resolution of DCV (refer to “Resolution setting (digits)” in Section 4), bandwidth of
ACV (refer to “AC filter” in Section 4) or skip this step if the default settings are used.

4. Press the DCV or ACV key for DC or AC voltage measurement.

5. Select the auto-range function by pressing the AUTO key on the front panel, or use the up
and down arrow keys to select the desired range.

6. Connect the test leads to your source signal and observe the reading shown on the display.
If the input signal is beyond the allowed range, an overflow message ("OVLD") will be
displayed.

Current measurements (DC and AC)

The ranges for DC current measurements for the Model 2100 are 10mA, 100mA, 1A, and 3A, with
a sensitivity of 10NA. For AC current measurements, the range is 1A to 3A RMS with a sensitivity

μA. Figures 3-4 and 3-5 illustrate how to measure DC/AC currents with the Model 2100.

of 10

CAUTION The maximum input current allowed is 3A, 250V. Do not apply excess current

to your meter to avoid damaging the fuse of current input.

How to measure current

1. Select input signal connections on front or rear panel.

2. Connect the test leads to the terminals as shown in Figure 3-4.

3. Set the resolution of DCI (refer to “Resolution setting (digits)” in Section 4), and bandwidth
of ACI (refer to “AC filter” in Section 4), or skip this step if the default setting is used.

4. Press SHIFT + DCV or SHIFT + ACV keys for DCI or ACI measurement.

5. Select the auto-range function by pressing the AUTO key on the front panel, or use the up

6. Connect test leads to your source signal and observe the reading shown on the display. If

and down arrow keys to select the desired range.

the input signal is greater than the allowed range, an overflow message ("OVLD") will be
displayed.

2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007 Return to Section Topics 3-3

Section 3: Basic Measurement Functions Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual

FILTER

NEXT

PREV

DIGITS

RATIO

%

MIN/MAX

NULL

ESC

ENTER

AUTO

SINGLE

TRIGGER

STORE

RECALL

LOCAL

SHIFT

CONFIG

MENU

AUTO

DCV

ACV

22

FREQ

CONT

TEMP

4 WIRE

RATIO

V

INPUT

PEAK

200V

PEAK

HI

LO

PEAK

500V

3A

RMS

INPUTS

3A250V

FRONT/REAR

AMPS

R

1000V

REF

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

LOCK

SETUP

ACV

22

FUNCTION

DCI ACI

4

PERIOD

LIMITS MX+B

dB

EXTRIG HOLD

MATH

TRIGGER MEMORY

dBm

RANGE

DISPLAY

NEXT

PREV

POWER

OFF
ON

SENSE

F

CONFIG

3

2

1

DCV

4

AUTO

5

6

Current
source

(Warning: Maximum input = 3A DC or RMS)

SHIFT

1

CM

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

LIN E

120V120V

240V240V

240V240V

*T w0 00 01 00 0*

MADE IN

TAIWA N

NO INTERNAL SERVICEABLE PARTS, SERVICE

WARNING

BY QUAL IFIED PERSONNEL ONLY.

FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST FIRE HAZARD.

CAUTION:

REPLACEFUSEWITHSAMETYPEANDRATING.

CM = Current measurement

Figure 3-4

Model 2100 current measurement (front panel)

NOTE Follow the same procedure when using either the front or rear panel terminals (refer to

Figure 3-5).

Figure 3-5

Model 2100 current measurement

Resistance measurements (2- and 4-wire)

The ranges for resistance measurement are 100Ω, 1KΩ, 10kΩ, 100kΩ, 1MΩ, 10MΩ, and 100MΩ,
with a sensitivity of 100
2-wire mode (refer to Figure 3-6) and 4-wire mode (refer to Figure 3-7). In 4-wire mode, the test
current is sourced to the test resistance through one pair
the resistance under test is measured from another set of test leads. As a result, the 4-wire mode
is more accurate for low resistance measurements. The disadvantage of this is the longer settling
time for 4-wire mode. Figures 3-8 and 3-9 show the input terminal connections on the rear panel
for 2-wire mode and 4-wire mode respectively.

3-4 Return to Section Topics 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007

μΩ (on 100Ω range). There are two modes for measuring the resistance:

of test leads, and the test voltage across

Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual Section 3: Basic Measurement Functions

FILTER

NEXT

PREV

DIGITS

RATIO

%

MIN/MAX

NULL

ESC

ENTER

AUTO

SINGLE

TRIGGER

STORE

RECALL

LOCAL

SHIFT

CONFIG

MENU

AUTO

DCV

ACV

22

FREQ

CONT

TEMP

4 WIRE

RATIO

V

INPUT

PEAK

200V

PEAK

HI

LO

PEAK

500V

3A

RMS

INPUTS

3A250V

FRONT/REAR

AMPS

R

1000V

REF

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

LOCK

SETUP

ACV

22

FUNCTION

DCI ACI

4

PERIOD

LIMITS MX+B

dB

EXTRIG HOLD

MATH

TRIGGER MEMORY

dBm

RANGE

DISPLAY

NEXT

PREV

POWER

OFF
ON

SENSE

F

CONFIG

3

2

1

2222

4

AUTO

5

6

Ω2 resistance
under test

Note: Source current flows from the INPUT HI to

INPUT LO terminals.

FILTER

NEXT

PREV

DIGITS

RATIO

%

MIN/MAX

NULL

ESC

ENTER

AUTO

SINGLE

TRIGGER

STORE

RECALL

LOCAL

SHIFT

CONFIG

MENU

AUTO

DCV

ACV

22

FREQ

CONT

TEMP

4 WIRE

RATIO

V

INPUT

PEAK

200V

PEAK

HI

LO

PEAK

500V

3A

RMS

INPUTS

3A250V

FRONT/REAR

AMPS

R

1000V

REF

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

LOCK

SETUP

ACV

22

FUNCTION

DCI ACI

4

PERIOD

LIMITS MX+B

dB

EXTRIG HOLD

MATH

TRIGGER MEMORY

dBm

RANGE

DISPLAY

NEXT

PREV

POWER

OFF
ON

SENSE

F

CONFIG

3

2

1

2222

4

AUTO

5

6

Ω4 resistance
under test

Note: Source current flows from the INPUT HI to

INPUT LO terminals.

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

LIN E

120V120V

240V240V

240V24 0V

*T w0 00 01 00 0*

MADE IN

TAIWA N

NO INTERNAL SERVICEABLE PARTS, SERVICE

WARNING

BY QUAL IFIED PERSONNEL ONLY.

FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST FIRE HA ZARD.

CAUTION:

REPLACEFUSEWITHSAMETYPEANDRATING.

Figure 3-6

Model 2100 2-wire resistance

Figure 3-7

Model 2100 4-wire resistance

NOTE Follow the same procedure when using either the front or rear panel terminals as shown

Figure 3-8

Model 2100 rear panel 2-wire resistance measurement

2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007 Return to Section Topics 3-5

in Figures 3-8 and 3-9.

Section 3: Basic Measurement Functions Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

LINE

120V120V

240V240V

240V240V

*T w0 00 01 00 0*

MADE IN

TAIWA N

NO INTERNAL SERVICEABLE PARTS, SERVICE

WARNING

BY QUAL IFIED PERSONNEL ONLY.

FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST FIRE HAZARD.

CAUTION:

REPLACEFUSEWITHSAMETYPEANDRATING.

Figure 3-9

Model 2100 rear panel 4-wire resistance measurement

How to measure resistance

1. Select input signal connections on front or rear panel.

2. Connect the test leads to the terminals as shown in Figure 3-6 (2-wire) or Figure 3-7
(4-wire).

3. Set the resolution (refer to “Resolution setting (digits)” in Section 4), or skip this step if the
default setting is used.

4. Press

5. Select the auto-range function by pressing the AUTO key on the front panel, or use the up

6. Connect test leads to your source signal and observe the reading shown on the display. If

Ω 2 key for a 2-wire measurement or SHIFT + Ω 2 keys for 4-wire measurement.

and down arrow keys to select the desired range.

the input signal is greater than the allowed range, an overflow message ("OVLD") will be
displayed.

Frequency and period measurements

The Model 2100 uses an on-board counter with 25MHz to measure the frequency (period). The
measurement band is from 3Hz to 300kHz (or 333ms to 3.3
range from 100mV to 750V in AC. The default setting for RANGE is “auto-range.”

WARNING The maximum input voltage allowed is 1000V. Applying excess voltage may

damage the meter and cause unpredictable hazards that may result in
personal injury or death.

How to measure frequency and period

1. Select input signal connections on front or rear panel.

2. Connect the test leads to the terminals as shown in Figure 3-2.

3. Set the resolution (refer to “Set ADC (Auto Zero and Auto Gain)” in Section 4) and input

4. Press the FREQ button for frequency measurement or the SHIFT + FREQ keys for period

5. Select the AUTO-RANGE function by pressing the AUTO key on the front panel, or use the

3-6 Return to Section Topics 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007

jack, or skip this step if the default setting is used.

measurement.

up and down arrow keys to select the desired range.

μs), and the measurement voltages

Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual Section 3: Basic Measurement Functions

FILTER

NEXT

PREV

DIGITS

RATIO

%

MIN/MAX

NULL

ESC

ENTER

AUTO

SINGLE

TRIGGER

STORE

RECALL

LOCAL

SHIFT

CONFIG

MENU

AUTO

DCV

ACV

22

FREQ

CONT

TEMP

4 WIRE

RATIO

V

INPUT

PEAK

200V
PEAK

HI

LO

PEAK

500V

3A

RMS

INPUTS

3A 250V

FRONT/REAR

AMPS

R

1000V

REF

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

LOCK

SETUP

ACV

22

FUNCTION

DCI ACI

4

PERIOD

LIMITS MX+B

dB

EXTRIG HOLD

MATH

TRIGGER MEMORY

dBm

RANGE

DISPLAY

NEXT

PREV

POWER

OFF
ON

SENSE

F

CONFIG

3

2

1

CONT

4

5

Ω2 resistance
under test

Note: Source current flows from the INPUT HI to

INPUT LO terminals.

6. Connect test leads to your source signal and observe the reading shown on the display. If
the input signal is beyond the allowed range, an overflow message ("OVLD") will be
displayed.

NOTE Follow the same procedure when using either the front or rear panel terminals (refer to

Figure 3-3).

Continuity measurements

The Model 2100 uses 1KΩ range for the continuity measurement. The meter beeps when the test
resistance is less than the threshold resistance. The default threshold resistance is 10Ω, but you
can set the threshold resistance to anything between 1Ω and 1KΩ. The resistance value you set
is stored in volatile memory and will be cleared after the meter has been turned off. The source
current for the continuity measurement is 1mA.

WARNING The maximum input voltage allowed is 1000V. Applying excess voltage may

damage the meter and cause unpredictable hazards that may result in
personal injury or death.

How to measure the continuity

Select input signal connections on the front or rear panel.

1. Connect the test leads to the te

rminals as shown in Figure 3-2.

2. Set the input signal reconnect as shown in Figure 3-10.

3. Set threshold resistance by pressing CONFIG + CONT keys, or skip this step if the default
resistance setting is used. When ready, press the ENTER key.

4. Press the CONT key.

5. The measured value will be shown on the display automatically. The meter will beep when
measured resistance value is lower than threshold value.

Figure 3-10

Model 2100 2-wire resistance / continuity

Diode measurements

The Model 2100 uses a current source of 1mA for diode testing. The maximum resolution is 10μV
on a fixed range of 1VDC. The default threshold voltage is fixed between 0.3V and 0.8V and the
reading rate is fixed at 0.1PLC (the voltage band is adjustable from 0.01V up to 1.2V). The meter
will beep when the diode measured value is in range.

2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007 Return to Section Topics 3-7

Section 3: Basic Measurement Functions Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual

FILTER

NEXT

PREV

DIGITS

RATIO

%

MIN/MAX

NULL

ESC

ENTER

AUTO

SINGLE

TRIGGER

STORE

RECALL

LOCAL

SHIFT

CONFIG

MENU

AUTO

DCV

ACV

22

FREQ

CONT

TEMP

4 WIRE

RATIO

V

INPUT

PEAK

200V

PEAK

HI

LO

PEAK

500V

3A

RMS

INPUTS

3A 250V

FRONT/REAR

AMPS

R

1000V

REF

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

LOCK

SETUP

ACV

22

FUNCTION

DCI ACI

4

PERIOD

LIMITS MX+B

dB

EXTRIG HOLD

MATH

TRIGGER MEMORY

dBm

RANGE

DISPLAY

NEXT

PREV

POWER

OFF
ON

SENSE

F

3

2

1

CONT

4

or

Note: Source current flows from the INPUT HI to

INPUT LO terminals.

Zener
diode

General-purpose
diode

SHIFT

4

WARNING The positive end of the source signal must be connected to the HI input

terminals, and the negative end to the LO input terminals.

How to measure a diode

1. Select input signal connections on the front or rear panel.

2. Connect the diode to the terminals. For forward bias, connect the probe from the HI input
terminal to the positive end of the diode, and connect the probe from the LO input terminal
to the negative end of the diode.

3. Set voltage bound by pressing CONFIG + SHIFT + CONT keys. When ready, press
ENTER, or skip this step if the default voltage bound is used.

4. Press the SHIFT + CONT keys to select the diode testing function and observe the reading
on the display.

Figure 3-11

Model 2100 general purpose diode

RTD measurements

There are three techniques that can be used to measure temperature with RTDs: 2-wire, 3-wire,
and 4-wire measurements. You will find connection instructions and measuring procedures in the
following subsections.

2-wire RTD measurements

How to measure temperature with a 2-wire RTD

Figure 3-12 shows a theory diagram of 2-wire RTD measurement.

3-8 Return to Section Topics 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007

Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual Section 3: Basic Measurement Functions

FILTER

NEXT

PREV

DIGITS

RATIO

%

MIN/MAX

NULL

ESC

ENTER

AUTO

SINGLE

TRIGGER

STORE

RECALL

LOCAL

SHIFT

CONFIG

MENU

AUTO

DCV

ACV

22

FREQ

CONT

TEMP

4 WIRE

RATIO

V

INPUT

PEAK

200V
PEAK

HI

LO

PEAK

500V

3A

RMS

INPUTS

3A 250V

FRONT/REAR

AMPS

R

1000V

REF

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

LOCK

SETUP

ACV

22

FUNCTION

DCI ACI

4

PERIOD

LIMITS MX+B

dB

EXTRIG HOLD

MATH

TRIGGER MEMORY

dBm

RANGE

DISPLAY

NEXT

PREV

POWER

OFF
ON

SENSE

F

CONFIG

3

2

1

TEMP

4

5

Platinum

RTD

Note: Source current flows from the INPUT HI to

INPUT LO terminals.

Input HI

Input LO

FILTER

NEXT

PREV

DIGITS

RATIO

%

MIN/MAX

NULL

ESC

ENTER

AUTO

SINGLE

TRIGGER

STORE

RECALL

LOCAL

SHIFT

CONFIG

MENU

AUTO

DCV

ACV

22

FREQ

CONT

TEMP

4 WIRE

RATIO

V

INPUT

PEAK

200V

PEAK

HI

LO

PEAK

500V

3A

RMS

INPUTS

3A250V

FRONT/REAR

AMPS

R

1000V

REF

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

LOCK

SETUP

ACV

22

FUNCTION

DCI ACI

4

PERIOD

LIMITS MX+B

dB

EXTRIG HOLD

MATH

TRIGGER MEMORY

dBm

RANGE

DISPLAY

NEXT

PREV

POWER

OFF
ON

SENSE

F

Platinum

RTD

Sense Ω3-wire HI

Input HI

Input LO

Figure 3-12

Theory diagram of 2-wire RTD measurement

take an RTD measurement:

To

1. Use the terminals switch to select the front terminals.

2. Con

nect the low thermal leads as shown in Figure 3-12.

3. Configure sensor type and unit using CONFIG + TEMP or the PREV and NEXT keys. When
ready, press the ENTER key.

4. Press the TEMP key.

5. Place the RTD at the measurement point and read the display.

3-wire RTD measurements

How to measure temperature with a 3-Wire RTD

Figure 3-13 shows a theory diagram of a 3-wire RTD measurement:

Figure 3-13

Theory diagram of 3-wire RTD

To

measure temperature with a 3-wire RTD:

1. Measure the third wire using the 4-wire resistance measurement function (detailed later in
thi

2. Select USER RTD as the sensor:

a) Press the CONFIG key.
b) Next, press the TEMP key.

2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007 Return to Section Topics 3-9

s section).

measurement

Section 3: Basic Measurement Functions Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual

FILTER

NEXT

PREV

DIGITS

RATIO

%

MIN/MAX

NULL

ESC

ENTER

AUTO

SINGLE

TRIGGER

STORE

RECALL

LOCAL

SHIFT

CONFIG

MENU

AUTO

DCV

ACV

22

FREQ

CONT

TEMP

4 WIRE

RATIO

V

INPUT

PEAK

200V
PEAK

HI

LO

PEAK

500V

3A

RMS

INPUTS

3A250V

FRONT/REAR

AMPS

R

1000V

REF

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

LOCK

SETUP

ACV

22

FUNCTION

DCI ACI

4

PERIOD

LIMITS MX+B

dB

EXTRIG HOLD

MATH

TRIGGER MEMORY

dBm

RANGE

DISPLAY

NEXT

PREV

POWER

OFF
ON

SENSE

F

CONFIG

3

2

1

TEMP

4

5

Platinum

RTD

Sense Ω4-wire HI

Input HI

Input LO

Sense Ω4-wire

c) Using the PREV and NEXT keys, select the SENSOR.
d) Press ENTER.

3. Select USER RTD and press ENTER.

4. Select R-ZERO and press ENTER.

5. Enter in the sum of the zero RTD resistance plus the resistance of the third wire measured
in step two (e.g., 100 Ohms plus 0.05 Ohms = 100.05 Ohms).

6. Also select the ALPHA, BETA, and DELTA parameters, and enter the coefficients for this
particular RTD. The manufacturer of the RTD normally provides these values in the
documentation shipped with the RTD.

7. Use the USER RTD selection as the SENSOR.

4-wire RTD measurements

How to measure temperature with a 4-Wire RTD

Figure 3-14 shows a theory diagram of a 4-wire RTD measurement:

Figure 3-14

Theory diagram of 4-wire RTD

To

measure temperature with a 4-wire RTD:

measurement

1. Use the terminals switch to select front terminals.

2. Con

nect the low thermal leads as shown in Figure 3-14.

3. Configure sensor type and unit using CONFIG + TEMP and the PREV or NEXT keys. When
ready, press the ENTER key.

4. Press the TEMP key.

5. Place the RTD at the measurement point and read the display.

3-10 Return to Section Topics 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007

In this section:

Top ic Pa ge

Introduction ......................................................................................... 4-2

Measurement configuration ................................................................ 4-2

Sensor selection for temperature ........................................................ 4-11

Trigger operations ............................................................................... 4-14

Math operations .................................................................................. 4-19

Other system-related operations......................................................... 4-29

Front Panel Operations

Set ADC (Auto Zero and Auto Gain) ............................................ 4-2

Filter.............................................................................................. 4-4

Resolution setting (digits) ............................................................. 4-6

DC input resistance ...................................................................... 4-7

Threshold resistance (continuity).................................................. 4-8

Range (manual and auto) ............................................................. 4-9

Rate (integration time) .................................................................. 4-10

Measurements.............................................................................. 4-11

RTD .............................................................................................. 4-11

Input terminal switch..................................................................... 4-13

Trigger mode ................................................................................ 4-14

Trigger source............................................................................... 4-16

Trigger setting............................................................................... 4-16

Ratio ............................................................................................. 4-20

% (Percent)................................................................................... 4-21

MIN/MAX ...................................................................................... 4-22

Null ............................................................................................... 4-23

Limits test...................................................................................... 4-24

MX+B............................................................................................ 4-25

dB ................................................................................................. 4-26

dBm .............................................................................................. 4-27

Display.......................................................................................... 4-29

Beeper .......................................................................................... 4-30

Reading memory (store and recall) .............................................. 4-31

Sensitivity band (Hold).................................................................. 4-33

Initial mode ................................................................................... 4-34

Language...................................................................................... 4-35

Error condition
Firm

ware re

Calibration .................................................................................... 4-40

.............................................................................. 4-35

vision ......................................................................... 4-36

Section 4

Section 4: Front Panel Operations Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual

Introduction

This section contains information about how to change the parameters and settings for your
measurements, and details about each feature and function.

Measurement configuration

The following information will guide you through ways to configure measurement functions. It
provides you the flexibility to change any parameter in any measurement function when needed,
including the ADC setting, filter, resolution settings (digits), DC input resistance, threshold
resistance (continuity), range (manual and auto), rate (integration time), remote interface
selection, and input terminal switch.

Set ADC (Auto Zero and Auto Gain)

Zero and Gain

The Auto Zero and Auto Gain functions are used to minimize offset influence on your
measurements. When Auto Zero or Auto Gain is enabled, the Model 2100 takes the input signal
reading as a base value and then internally disconnects the input signal, taking an offset reading
(a null offset). It then subtracts the offset from the base to get an accurate measurement:

Displayed reading = base value (input signal) - offset value

is en

When Auto Zero or Auto Gain
measurement. However, when Auto Zero or Auto Gain is disabled, the meter only takes one offset
reading each time when you change the function settings. You can set the period to change the
time interval for taking an offset reading.

Defaults

The default settings for Auto Zero and Auto Gain a
Zero and Auto Gain are stored in volatile memory and the default settings will be restored when
the meter is turned-off.

How to set Auto Zero and Auto Gain

You can change the Auto Zero and Auto Gain settings using the front panel or through a remote
interface.

NOTE The Auto Zero setting is always affected by the resolution setting. Whenever the

resolution is altered, Auto Zero will change accordingly. The relationship between
resolution and Auto Zero is shown in Table 4-1.

abled, the meter takes an offset reading for each subsequent

re e

nabled by default. Selected values for Auto

4-2 Return to Section Topics 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007

Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual Section 4: Front Panel Operations

FILTER

NEXT

PREV

DIGITS

RATIO

%

MIN/MAX

NULL

ESC

ENTER

AUTO

SINGLE

TRIGGER

STORE

RECALL

LOCAL

SHIFT

CONFIG

MENU

AUTO

DCV

ACV

22

FREQ

CONT

TEMP

4 WIRE

RATIO

V

INPUT

PEAK

200V

PEAK

HI

LO

PEAK

500V

3A

RMS

INPUTS

3A 250V

FRONT/REAR

AMPS

R

1000V

REF

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

LOCK

SETUP

ACV

22

FUNCTION

DCI ACI

4

PERIOD

LIMITS MX+B

dB

EXTRIG HOLD

MATH

TRIGGER MEMORY

dBm

RANGE

DISPLAY

NEXT

PREV

POWER

OFF

ON

SENSE

F

NEXT

PREV

MENU

ENTER

Table 4-1

Relationship of resolution to Auto Gain

Resolution Auto Zero Auto Gain In

tegration time

(PLC)

Fast 4 1/2 digits Off Off 0.02
Slow 4 1/2 digits On On 0.1
Fast 5 1/2 digits Off Off 0.1
Slow 5 1/2 digits On On 1
Fast 6 1/2 digits On On 1
Slow 6 1/2 digits On On 10

To set Auto Zero and Auto Gain from the front panel:

1. Press the MENU key o

n the multimeter front panel.

2. Using the PREV and NEXT keys, select SET ADC, then press the ENTER key.

3. Select either ZERO or GAIN (using the PREV and NEXT keys), then press the ENTER key.

4. Select either the AUTO ZERO or AUTO GAIN option, then press the ENTER key.

5. Select either ON or OFF and press the ENTER key.

1 for the location of these front panel keys.

Please refer to Figu

re 4-

Procedures: MENU SET ADC ZERO AUTO ZERO {ON|OFF}

MENU SET ADC GAIN AUTO GAIN {ON|OFF}

NOTE To change the resolution, refer to “Resolution setting (digits).”

Figure 4-1

Setting Auto Zero and Auto Gain from the front panel

To set Auto Zero and Auto Gain from the

To set Auto Zero and Auto Gain through the remo

remote interface:

te interface, use the following commands:

SENSe:ZERO:AUTO {OFF|ONCE|ON}
SENSe:GAIN:AUTO {OFF|ONCE|ON}

Th

e OFF and ONCE
issue a new offset measurement. However, Auto Zero ONCE or Auto Gain ONCE issues an
immediate offset measurement.

2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007 Return to Section Topics 4-3

parameters have a similar effect. Auto Zero OFF or Auto Gain OFF doesn't

Section 4: Front Panel Operations Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual

Filter

Filter is used to remove noises in measurement readings. The Model 2100 is equipped with two
types of filters: an AC filter and a digital filter. The AC filter is used for AC measurements only, and
affects the speed measurement reading. The digital filter stabilizes the measurement readings by
averaging the readings. Both are described in detail in the following text.

AC filter

Definition

The measurement bandwidth can be set by selecting one of three AC filters (Slow, Medium, or
Fast) in order to achieve either higher accuracy in low frequency measurements, or faster AC

settling time.

Default

The factory default is 20Hz (Medium). You can select the appropriate filter type when you set
bandwidth value. Your selection is stored in volatile memory, and the default setting will be
restored when the meter is turned-off.

Table 4-2

AC filters default settings

Bandwidth AC filter Time (seconds per reading)

3Hz ~ 300KHz Slow 7
20Hz ~ 300KHz Medium 1
200Hz ~ 300KHz Fast 0.1

How to set the AC filter in AC measurements

You can set the AC Filter either through the front panel or through a remote interface (see Section

“Remote Interface Oper

5,

To set the AC Filter using the front panel:

1. Press the CONFIG + ACV keys

2. Use the PREV or NEXT keys to select the BANDWIDTH submenu, then press the ENTER
key.

3. You can use one of three bandwidth options: 3Hz, 20Hz, and 200Hz. Select the desired
bandwidth using the PREV and NEXT keys, then press the ENTER key.

Please refer to Figu

ations”).

.

re 4-

2 for the location of these front panel keys.

4-4 Return to Section Topics 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007

Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual Section 4: Front Panel Operations

FILTER

NEXT

PREV

DIGITS

RATIO

%

MIN/MAX

NULL

ESC

ENTER

AUTO

SINGLE

TRIGGER

STORE

RECALL

LOCAL

SHIFT

CONFIG

MENU

AUTO

DCV

ACV

22

FREQ

CONT

TEMP

4 WIRE

RATIO

V

INPUT

PEAK

200V

PEAK

HI

LO

PEAK

500V

3A

RMS

INPUTS

3A 250V

FRONT/REAR

AMPS

R

1000V

REF

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

LOCK

SETUP

ACV

22

FUNCTION

DCI ACI

4

PERIOD

LIMITS MX+B

dB

EXTRIG HOLD

MATH

TRIGGER MEMORY

dBm

RANGE

DISPLAY

NEXT

PREV

POWER

OFF
ON

SENSE

F

NEXT

PREV

ENTER

ACVACV

CONFIG

Figure 4-2

Setting the AC Filter using the front panel

Remote interface operation

From your PC terminal, use the following command to specify the filter type:

DETector:BANDwidth_20

Digital filter

Definition

The Model 2100 uses an averaging digital filter to yield a reading from 2 to 100 past measurement
readings (past measurement readings are stored in stack memory). You can select one of two
modes of digital filter operation: Moving Average mode or Repeating Average mode.

The moving average filter puts the specified numb

er of reading conversions in a first-in, first-out
order. The very first measurement reading simply fills up the stack. To yield a reading for display,
the filter produces an average of the stacked measurement readings every time a new
measurement reading is available, replacing the oldest reading in the stack. In the Repeating
Average mode, the multimeter waits for the measurement reading stack to fill up, then take an
average to produce a reading for display. It then flushes the stack and starts over with an empty
stack. Consequently, the repeating digital filter yields one reading for display every specified
number of measurement readings.

The digital filter is not available for diode, continuity, frequency, and period measurements.

Default

The digital filter is enabled, is in Moving Average mode, and is set to use the last 10 readings by
default.

How to enable/disable

Press the FILTER key

the digita

to switch the digital filter function. The FILT annunciator indicates the state

of the digital filter; when it is lit, the filter is enabled.

l filter

How to configure the digital filter

You can configure the digital filter through
operation.

2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007 Return to Section Topics 4-5

either the front panel operation or the remote interface

Section 4: Front Panel Operations Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual

To set the number of readings from the front panel:

1. Press the CONFIG key, and

2. Use the PREV and NEXT keys to select the READINGS submenu, then press ENTER.

3. Use the up and down arrow keys to enter the number of readings (from 2 to 100) to be
taken in order to get an average value. Press the ENTER key when you are prompted to
confirm your settings.

To set the mode from the front panel:

1. Press the CONFIG key

2. Use the PREV and NEXT keys to select the MODE and press the ENTER key.

3. Use the PREV and NEXT keys to select MOVING AVG or REPEAT AVG, then press the
ENTER key to confirm your settings.

4. Press the FILTER key to enable or disable this function.

To set the digital filter from the remote interface:

Use the following commands to set your

SENSe:AVERage:TCONtrol {MOVing|REPeat}
SENSe:AVERage:TCONtrol?
SENSe:AVERage:COUNt {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum}
SENSe:AVERage:COUNt? [MINimum|MAXimum]
SENSe:AVERage:STATe {OFF|ON}
SENSe:AVERage:STATe?

then the FILTER key.

, and

then the FILTER key.

digita

l filter:

Resolution setting (digits)

Definition

Resolution is the number of digits a multimeter can measure. Using the Model 2100 multimeter,
you can select the resolution for a specific measurement. The choices for the resolution setting
are: fast 4 1/2, slow 4 1/2, fast 5 1/2, slow 5 1/2, fast 6 1/2, and slow 6 1/2. For higher
measurement accuracy, select 6 1/2-digit resolution; for faster measurements, select 4 1/2-digit
resolution.

The resolution setting applies to all math operations under the selected measurement function.
The selected value is store
measurement function. You can select different resolutions for different measurement functions.

Default

The default value for resolution is “slow 5 1/2 digit” and the default value will be restored when the
meter has been turned off or after a remote interface reset. The user-selected value for the
resolution setting is stored in a volatile memory and the setting is only valid for the current
measurement function (refer to Table 2-2).

NOTE The resolution setting for AC measurements is actually fixed at 6 1/2 digits. When you

select a lower resolution, the meter will mask out the extra digits. Your selection of
resolution for AC function will not affect the actual speed or accuracy.

How to set the resolution

d in a volatile memory and the setting is only valid for the current

The resolution can be set either through the front panel or a remote interface.

4-6 Return to Section Topics 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007

Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual Section 4: Front Panel Operations

2

V

2

2

To set the resolution from the front panel:

Method A:

1. Select the desired measurement function by pressing one of th

e function keys located on
the first row of your meter's front panel (the locations of the keys are shown with red frames
in Figure 4-3).

2. Press the DIGITS key to select the resolution for your measurement. You can press the
DIGITS key several times to see how the resolution setting changes from 4 1/2, 5 1/2, to 6
1/2.

NOTE When using Method A to set the resolution, your options are 4 1/2 (slow), 5 1/2 (slow),

and 6 1/2 (fast).

Method B:

1. Press the CONFIG key and se

lect one of the following functions: DCV, DCI (SHIFT + DCV),

Ω2, Ω4 (SHIFT + Ω2), FREQ, and PERIOD (SHIFT + FREQ).

2. Select the RESOLUTION submenu and press ENTER. If it is not shown on the display, use
the PREV or NEXT keys to locate it.

3. Use the PREV and NEXT keys to find the desired resolution. Press ENTER on your choice.

NOTE The resolution of AC measurements is fixed at 6 1/2 digits.

NOTE The options for frequency and period measurements are 4 1/2 (slow), 5 1/2 (slow), and 6

1/2 (slow).

Figure 4-3

Front panel resolution

FUNCTION

DISPLAY

OFF
ON

PREV

NEXT

POWER

DCI ACI

DCV

FILTER

EXTRIG HOLD

SINGLE

TRIGGER MEMORY

ACV

ACV

DIGITS

AUTO

TRIGGER

4

2

2

LIMITS MX+B

RATIO

STORE

How to set the resolution using the remote interface:

Use the following commands on your PC terminal to set the resolution for your measurement:

CONFigure:<function> <range>,<resolution>
MEASure

:<function>? <range>,<resolution>

SENSe:<function>:RESolution <resolution>

DC input resistance

Definition

To reduce the effect of loading errors due to the input resistance, the Model 2100 allows you to
select a much larger input resistance (> 10GΩ) for low input DC voltage (100mV, 1V, and 10V)

PERIOD

FREQ

%

RECALL

MATH

CONT

dBm

MIN/MAX

LOCAL

TEMP

dB

NULL

SHIFT

PREV

LOCK

ESC

CONFIG

SETUP

NEXT

ENTER

MENU

RANGE

AUTO

200V
PEAK

F

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

SENSE

4 WIRE

RATIO
REF

INPUTS

FRONT/REAR

INPUT

HI

1000V

LO

3A

RMS

R

3A 250V

AMPS

PEAK

500V
PEAK

DCV

CONFIG

PREV

or

SHIFT

ENTER

FREQ

DIGITS

NEXT

2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007 Return to Section Topics 4-7

Section 4: Front Panel Operations Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual

FILTER

NEXT

PREV

DIGITS

RATIO

%

MIN/MAX

NULL

ESC

ENTER

AUTO

SINGLE

TRIGGER

STORE

RECALL

LOCAL

SHIFT

CONFIG

MENU

AUTO

DCV

ACV

22

FREQ

CONT

TEMP

4 WIRE

RATIO

V

INPUT

PEAK

200V

PEAK

HI

LO

PEAK

500V

3A

RMS

INPUTS

3A 250V

FRONT/REAR

AMPS

R

1000V

REF

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

LOCK

SETUP

ACV

22

FUNCTION

DCI ACI

4

PERIOD

LIMITS MX+B

dB

EXTRIG HOLD

MATH

TRIGGER MEMORY

dBm

RANGE

DISPLAY

NEXT

PREV

POWER

OFF
ON

SENSE

F

NEXT

PREV

ENTER

DCV

CONFIG

measurements. This feature is only available for DC voltage measurements and is not applicable
to other measurement functions.

Default

The default input resistance for all measurements is 10MΩ (refer to Table 2-2). The DC input
resistance can only be changed for measurements with 100mV, 1V, or 10V range. For 100V DCV,
1000V DCV
be changed. Also note that the user-selected value is stored in volatile memory. The default
setting will be restored after the meter has been turned off.

How to set the DC input resistance

You can set the DC input resistance either through the front panel or through a remote interface.

To set the DC input resistance from the front panel:

, and other measurement functions, the input resistance is fixed at 10MΩ and cannot

1. Press CONFIG +

2.

Use the PREV and NEXT keys to locate the INPUT R option, then press ENTER to select it.

DCV.

3. Select the desired value for the input resistance by pressing the PREV and NEXT keys,

then press ENTER. Two values are available: 10MΩ or > 10GΩ. The locations of these
keys are shown in Figure 4-4.

Figure 4-4

Front panel DCV

To set the DC input resistance from a remote interface:

The automatic input resistance mode can be enabled or disabled. When the automatic input

sista

nce mode is set to AUTO OFF (default), the input resistance is fixed at 10MΩ for all ranges.

re
When set to AUTO ON, the input resistance is set to >10GΩ for the three lowest DC voltage
ranges (100mV, 1V, and 10V). Use the following command from your PC terminal to disable the
auto input DC resistance setting (the result is a fixed input DC resistance at 10MΩ for all
measurements):

INPut:IMPedance:AUTO {OFF | ON}

Threshold resistance (continuity)

Definition

When testing continuity, the multimeter will make a beeping sound when the measured resistance
is less than the threshold resistance. The threshold resistance can be set to any value between
1Ω and 1000Ω.

4-8 Return to Section Topics 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007

Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual Section 4: Front Panel Operations

FILTER

NEXT

PREV

DIGITS

RATIO

%

MIN/MAX

NULL

ESC

ENTER

AUTO

SINGLE

TRIGGER

STORE

RECALL

LOCAL

SHIFT

CONFIG

MENU

AUTO

DCV

ACV

22

FREQ

CONT

TEMP

4 WIRE

RATIO

V

INPUT

PEAK

200V

PEAK

HI

LO

PEAK

500V

3A

RMS

INPUTS

3A 250V

FRONT/REAR

AMPS

R

1000V

REF

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

LOCK

SETUP

ACV

22

FUNCTION

DCI ACI

4

PERIOD

LIMITS MX+B

dB

EXTRIG HOLD

MATH

TRIGGER MEMORY

dBm

RANGE

DISPLAY

NEXT

PREV

POWER

OFF
ON

SENSE

F

NEXT

PREV

ENTER

CONFIG

CONT

Default

The factory default for continuity threshold resistance is 10Ω. Your settings are stored in volatile
memory, and the default value will be restored after the meter has been turned-off.

How to set the threshold resistance

Threshold resistance can only be changed through the front panel:

1. Press the CONFIG key and then the CONT key.

2. Use the PREV and NEXT keys to move through the digits, and the up and down arrow
keys to lower or increase the number to your desired value.

3. Press ENTER to set the value. The locations of these keys are shown in Figure 4-5.

Figure 4-5

Front panel threshold resistance

Range (manual and auto)

Definition

The Model 2100 multimeter can automatically select measurement ranges for you (except for
CONT and DIODE); however, selecting the appropriate ranges manually can achieve a faster
settling time.

If the input signal is beyond allowed range, an OVLD mes

sage will be shown on the display. The

threshold of maximum readings for each range is 120% and the minimum is 10%.

Default

The default range setting for the Model 2100 is auto-range. The user-selected range is stored in
volatile memory and the default will be restored when the meter is turned off (refer to Table 2-2 for
the factory default range).

How to set the auto / manual range

You can set the auto / manual range either through the front panel or through a remote interface.

To set the auto/manual range from the front panel:

First choose a measurement function on the front panel, then press the AU
auto-range feature, or use up and down arrow keys to manually select a range. If the selected
range is not shown on the bottom of the display, press the round PREV or NEXT keys (on the left
side of the front panel) until the range information appears. The location of these keys shown in

Figure 4-6.

2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007 Return to Section Topics 4-9

TO

key to select the

Section 4: Front Panel Operations Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual

FILTER

NEXT

PREV

DIGITS

RATIO

%

MIN/MAX

NULL

ESC

ENTER

AUTO

SINGLE

TRIGGER

STORE

RECALL

LOCAL

SHIFT

CONFIG

MENU

AUTO

DCV

ACV

22

FREQ

CONT

TEMP

4 WIRE

RATIO

V

INPUT

PEAK

200V

PEAK

HI

LO

PEAK

500V

3A

RMS

INPUTS

3A 250V

FRONT/REAR

AMPS

R

1000V

REF

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

LOCK

SETUP

ACV

22

FUNCT ION

DCI ACI

4

PERIOD

LIMITS MX+B

dB

EXTRIG HOLD

MATH

TRIGGER MEMORY

dBm

RANGE

DISPLAY

NEXT

PREV

POWER

OFF

ON

SENSE

F

AUTO

NEXT

PREV

Figure 4-6

Front panel auto-range

To set the range from a remote interface:

Use the following commands from your PC terminal to set the range:

CONFigure:<function> <range>,<resolution>
MEASure:<function>? <range>,<resolution>
SENSe:<function>:RANGe <range>
SENSe:<function>:RANGe:AUTO {OFF|ON}

Rate (integration time)

Definition

Integration time is the period of time the analog-to-digital (A/D) converter takes to sample the input
signal. The integration time feature allows you to optimize either the speed or the resolution, as
well as the noise rejection and accuracy of the measurement. The unit of the integration time is in
PLC (power line cycles); one PLC for 60Hz is 16.67ms, and for 50Hz is 20ms.

The Model 2100 has four different integration times you ca
and 10 PLC.

Default

For DCV, DCI, and resistance measurement, the default integration time is 1 PLC. The user
selected value is stored in volatile memory, and the default value will be restored when the meter
is turned-off.

How to set the integration time:

You can set the integration time either through the fr

To set the integration time from the front panel:

Integration time is set indirectly when
“Resolution setting (digits)” later in this section for details about how to set res

Table 4-1 shows the relationship between the resolution and the integration time.

To set the resolution for your measurement from a remote interface:

Use the following commands on your PC terminal to set th

4-10 Return to Section Topics 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007

you select the measurement resolution. Please refer to

n select: 0.02 PLC, 0.1 PLC, 1 PLC,

o

nt panel or the remote interface operation.

olution or digits.

e resolution:

Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual Section 4: Front Panel Operations

CONFigure:< function> <range>, <resolution>
MEASure:< function>? <range>, <resolution>
SENSe:< function>:RESolution <resolution>

To set the integration time through a remote interface, use the following commands:

SENSe:VOLTage:DC:NPLCycles {0.02|0.1|1|10|MINimum|MAXimum}
SENSe:VOLTage:DC:NPLCycles? [MINimum|MAXimum]
SENSe:C
SENSe:CURRent:DC:NPLCycles? [MINimum|MAXimum]
SENSe:RESistance:NPLCycles {0.02|0.1|1|10|MINimum|MAXimum}
SENSe:RESistance:NPLCycles? [MINimum|MAXimum]
SENSe:FRESistance:DC:NPLCycles {0.02|0.1|1|10|MINimum|MAXimum}
SENSe:FRESistance:DC:NPLCycles? [MINimum|MAXimum]

To set the aperture time (or gate time) from a remote interface:

For frequency and period measurements, aperture time (or gate time) is analogous to integration
time; use the follow
digits), or 1s (6 1/2 digits)):

SENSe:FREQuency:APERture {0.01|0.1|1|MINimum|MAXimum}
SENSe:FREQuency:APERture? [MINimum|MAXimum]
SENSe:P
SENSe:PERiod:APERture? [MINimum|MAXimum]

URRent:DC:NPLCycles {0.02|0.1|1|10|MINimum|MAXimum}

ing commands

ERiod:APERture {0.01|0.1|1|MINimum|MAXimum}

to set it (specify 10ms (4 1/2 digits), 100ms (default; 5 1/2

Sensor selection for temperature

Measurements

The multimeter supports RTDs for temperature sensors. You will need to configure the multimeter
for the correct RTD type before you can make temperature measurements.

RTD

Definition

If you are using an RTD, the options are: PT100, D100, F100, PT385, PT3916, user-defined RTD,
and SPRTD. If you need to change the factors that are used to calculate the temperature of the
RTD, choose user-defined RTD, where you can change any factors you wish. The default factors
used are listed in Table 4-3:

Table 4-3

Default factors

Type Alpha Beta Delta R-zero

PT100 0.003850 0.10863 1.49990 100Ω
D100 0.003920
F100 0.003900 0.11000 1.49589 100Ω
PT385 0.003850 0.11100 1.50700 100Ω
PT3916 0.003916 0.11600 1.50594 100Ω

0.10630 1.49710 100Ω

The temperature equation that is used to determine the RTD temperature is:

When t < 0°C:

= R0 [1+At+Bt2+Ct3(t-100)]

R

t

2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007 Return to Section Topics 4-11

Section 4: Front Panel Operations Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual

δ

100

When 0°C < t < 630 °C:

R

= R0 (1+At+Bt

t

When 0°C < t < 630 °C:

R

= R0 (1+At+Bt

t

Where:

A = α

(1+ )

B = -αδ • 10
B = -αβ • 10

If you are using SPRTD (Standard Platinum RTD), select SPRTD and specify the seven
coefficients under SPRTD submenu.

The ITS (International Temperature Scale) -90 standard provides two reference equations for
Stan

dard Platinum Thermometers covering temperature range from 18.8033K to 1234.93K.
However, one SPRTD usually cannot cover the entire range, so the temperature range is broken
up into a few subranges. These subranges depend on the calibration point of temperature scale
and are based on the melting or triple points of various pure substances. For an exact list of the
elements needed and details on RTD calibration, refer to NIST Technical Note 1265, “Guidelines
for Realizing the International Temperature Scale of 1990.” In each subrange, the calibration
constants required for that subrange are listed.

-4

-8

2

)

2

)

Default

The default sensor type is PT100.

How to set up the RTD

You can set up the RTD configuration either through the front panel or the remote interface
operation.

To set up the RTD from the front panel:

1. If you are using an RTD, press CONFIG and then TEMP.

2. Use the PREV and NEXT keys to locate the SENSOR submenu and press ENTER to go to
the submenu.

3. Use the PREV and NEXT keys to locate your sensor type, then press ENTER to select your
desired sensor type.

kes you to a menu where you can specify factors used in the calculation

• Choosing USER
equation to obtain the temperature. Use the PREV and NEXT keys to move through the
digits and the up and down arrow keys to change the numbers to the desired value. Press
ENTER to set the value.

• Choosing SPRTD t
are used to determine the temperature. Use the PREV and NEXT keys to move through the
digits and the up and down arrow keys to change the numbers to a desired value. Press
ENTER to set the value.

ta

ak

es you to a menu where you can specify the seven coefficients that

To set up the RTD from a remote interface:

up the

Use the following commands to set

4-12 Return to Section Topics 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007

RTD configuration:

Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual Section 4: Front Panel Operations

FILTER

NEXT

PREV

DIGITS

RATIO

%

MIN/MAX

NULL

ESC

ENTER

AUTO

SINGLE

TRIGGER

STORE

RECALL

LOCAL

SHIFT

CONFIG

MENU

AUTO

DCV

ACV

22

FREQ

CONT

TEMP

4 WIRE

RATIO

V

INPUT

PEAK

200V
PEAK

HI

LO

PEAK

500V

3A

RMS

INPUTS

3A 250V

FRONT/REAR

AMPS

R

1000V

REF

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

LOCK

SETUP

ACV

22

FUNCTION

DCI ACI

4

PERIOD

LIMITS MX+B

dB

EXTRIG HOLD

MATH

TRIGGER MEMORY

dBm

RANGE

DISPLAY

NEXT

PREV

POWER

OFF
ON

SENSE

F

SENSe:TEMPerature:RTD:TYPE{PT100|D100|F100|PT385|PT3916|USER|SPRTD}

SENSe:UNIT {Cel|Far|K}

SENSe:UNIT?

SENSe:TEMPerature:RTD:RZERo {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum}

SENSe:TEMPerature:RTD:ALPHa {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum}

SENSe:TEMPerature:RTD:BETA {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum}

SENSe:TEMPerature:RTD:DELTa {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum}

SENSe:TEMPerature:SPRTD:RZERo {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum}

SENSe:TEMPerature:SPRTD:A4 {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum}

SENSe:TEMPerature:SPRTD:B4 {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum}

SENSe:TEMPerature:SPRTD:AX {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum}

SENSe:TEMPerature:SPRTD:BX {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum}

SENSe:TEMPerature:SPRTD:CX {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum}

SENSe:TEMPerature:SPRTD:DX {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum}

Input terminal switch

Definition

This Model 2100 has five input terminals on both the front and rear terminals for taking
measurements. When the rear input is selected, the REAR annunciator is shown on the front
panel display.

Default

The default setting is the front terminals.

How to switch the terminals:

To switch between the front and rear input terminals, press
(refer to Figure 4-7 for the location of the butt

Figure 4-7

Front panel input switch terminals

the INPUTS button on the front panel

on and terminals).

2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007 Return to Section Topics 4-13

Section 4: Front Panel Operations Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual

Idle

Waiting for event

Delay

Sampling

Trigger = 1 Sample = 1 Sample = 1, Trigger = 1

Trigger operations

In this section, we will discuss the triggering system in the Model 2100 multimeter. The Model
2100 provides a variety of trigger operations. You can select a trigger mode, a trigger source, and
different trigger settings for specific measurements. Your selection is stored in volatile memory and
the default settings will be restored after power is turned-off. Figure 4-8 shows the trigger
operation for the Model 2100.

Figure 4-8

Trigger operation flow chart

Trigger mode

You can choose from three trigger modes in the Model 2100: auto, immediate, and single
triggering. The factory default is auto triggering.

Auto triggering mode (front panel operation only)

Definition

Auto triggering takes continuous readings at the fastest rate possible for the designated
measurement (the rate of readings depends on the current settings). Auto triggering mode, which
is the default trigger mode for the Model 2100, is only available through the front panel.

How to use auto trigger

Press the AUTO TRIGGER key on the front panel to toggle auto triggering on and off (refer to

Figure 4-9).

4-14 Return to Section Topics 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007

Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual Section 4: Front Panel Operations

FILTER

NEXT

PREV

DIGITS

RATIO

%

MIN/MAX

NULL

ESC

ENTER

AUTO

SINGLE

TRIGGER

STORE

RECALL

LOCAL

SHIFT

CONFIG

MENU

AUTO

DCV

ACV

22

FREQ

CONT

TEMP

4 WIRE

RATIO

V

INPUT

PEAK

200V

PEAK

HI

LO

PEAK

500V

3A

RMS

INPUTS

3A 250V

FRONT/REAR

AMPS

R

1000V

REF

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

LOCK

SETUP

ACV

22

FUNCTION

DCI ACI

4

PERIOD

LIMITS MX+B

dB

EXTRIG HOLD

MATH

TRIGGER MEMORY

dBm

RANGE

DISPLAY

NEXT

PREV

POWER

OFF
ON

SENSE

F

TRIGGER

AUT O

Figure 4-9

Toggle auto triggering on and off

Internal immediate trigger mode (remote interface operation only)

Definition

The Internal Immediate Trigger mode is only available through the remote interface operation, and
is the default setting for the remote interface. When the meter is in Immediate Trigger mode, a
trigger will be generated immediately after the meter goes into a "wait for event" state.

How to use immediate trigger

Use the following command from your PC ter

minal to set the Internal Immediate Trigger:

TRIGger:SOURce IMMediate

Single Trigger mode (accessible only through the front panel)

Definition

Single Trigger mode takes one reading (or the specified number of readings) each time you press
the SINGLE key (refer to “Trigger setting” for details on setting the number of samples on each
trigger). When the TRIG an
event. Single Trigger mode is only available through the front-panel.

How to use Single Trigger

First select the measurement function, and then press the SINGLE key on
the trigger mode (refer to Figure 4-10).

nunciator on the display is lit, the meter is ready for the next trigger

the front panel to set

2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007 Return to Section Topics 4-15

Section 4: Front Panel Operations Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual

2

V

2

Figure 4-10

Single trigger

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

4 WIRE

RATIO
REF

INPUTS

RMS

INPUT

HI

1000V

PEAK

LO

3A

500V
PEAK

R

3A 250V

AMPS

SINGLE

DISPLAY

OFF
ON

PREV

NEXT

POWER

DCI ACI

DCV

ACV

ACV

DIGITS

AUTO

TRIGGER

LIMITS MX+B

RATIO

STORE

FILTER

EXTRIG HOLD

SINGLE

TRIGGER MEMORY

FUNCTION

4

2

2

PERIOD

FREQ

%

RECALL

MATH

CONT

dBm

MIN/MAX

LOCAL

TEMP

dB

NULL

SHIFT

PREV

LOCK

ESC

CONFIG

SETUP

NEXT

ENTER

MENU

RANGE

AUTO

PEAK

200V

F

SENSE

FRONT/REAR

Trigger source

You can specify one of three trigger-source options for the Model 2100: front panel, external
hardware trigger source, and remote interface.

Front panel operation

Use the front panel AUTO
triggering.

External hardware

You can apply a trigger pulse from an external hardware so
terminal on the rear panel. Press both the SHIFT + SINGLE keys to enable the external hardware
trigger (the “EXT” and annunciator on the display is lit when the external hardware trigger is
enabled).

Remote interface operation (software or internal trigger)

Software trigger: Sof
SINGLE key on the front panel, you send a command from your PC to the multimeter to generate

an event. Use the following command from your PC terminal to set the trigger source:

Internal trigger: The Intern
In the Internal Trigger mode, a trigger signal will be issued whenever the multimeter is in the
wait-for-trigger state. To set the internal trigger, use the following command from your PC terminal:

Trigger setting

TRIGGER key for auto triggering, and the SINGLE key for single

urce connected to the Ext TRIG (BNC)

tware triggering is

similar to single triggering, but instead of using the

TRIGger:SOURce BUS

al Trigger is the default trigger mode for the remote interface operation.

TRIGger:SOURce IMMediate

You can specify a variety of trigger settings on the Model 2100, including the number of samples
per trigger, the number of triggers per event, reading hold, and the trigger delay for your
measurements.

Number of samples on each trigger

By default, the multimeter takes only one reading on each trigger, but you can instruct the
multimeter to take a specific number of readings (up to 50,000) each time it receives a trigger. The
sample count is stored in volatile memory. It is lost once power is disabled/lost.

4-16 Return to Section Topics 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007

Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual Section 4: Front Panel Operations

FILTER

NEXT

PREV

DIGITS

RATIO

%

MIN/MAX

NULL

ESC

ENTER

AUTO

SINGLE

TRIGGER

STORE

RECALL

LOCAL

SHIFT

CONFIG

MENU

AUTO

DCV

ACV

22

FREQ

CONT

TEMP

4 WIRE

RATIO

V

INPUT

PEAK

200V

PEAK

HI

LO

PEAK

500V

3A

RMS

INPUTS

3A 250V

FRONT/REAR

AMPS

R

1000V

REF

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

LOCK

SETUP

ACV

22

FUNCTION

DCI ACI

4

PERIOD

LIMITS MX+B

dB

EXTRIG HOLD

MATH

TRIGGER MEMORY

dBm

RANGE

DISPLAY

NEXT

PREV

POWER

OFF
ON

SENSE

F

NEXT

PREV

ENTER

MENU

To set the number of samples using the front panel:

1. Press the MENU key an

d use the PREV and NEXT keys to select TRIG, then press ENTER.

2. Next, use the PREV and NEXT keys to select N SAMPLE, then press ENTER.

3. Set the desired number of readings by pressing the up and down arrow keys to increase or
decrease the number, and use the PREV and NEXT keys to move through the digits. Refer
to Figure 4-11 for the location of the keys.

Procedures: MENU TRIG N SAMPLE <Number>

Figure 4-11

Trig submenu

To set the number of samples using a remote interface:

1. Use the following command to set the number

of samples

from your PC terminal:

SAMPle:COUNt <value>

Number of triggers

Although the meter normally takes one trigger before returning to the idle state, you can manually
specify the number of triggers it accepts before it returns to the idle state (this can only be done
using the remote interface).

To set the number of triggers between each idle state:

1. Use the following command from your PC terminal to set multiple triggers

between each idle

state:

TRIGger:COUNt <value>

Reading hold

The reading hold feature is used to hold a stable reading on the display. When a reading is stable,
enabling the reading hold will hold the stable reading and trigger a beeping sound. The reading
hold feature depends on an adjustable sensitivity band to determine if a reading is stable. The
Model 2100 Digital Multimeter considers a reading stable when three consecutive readings are
within the sensitivity band. Refer to "Sensitivity band (hold)" for a description of how to adjust the
sensitivity band.

To enable the reading hold feature (this feature is only available from the front panel):

1. Press both the SHIFT and AUTO

2. To disable reading hold, simply press AUTO TRIGGER (refer to Figure 4-12).

2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007 Return to Section Topics 4-17

TRIGGER keys.

Section 4: Front Panel Operations Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual

2

V

2

Figure 4-12

Reading hold

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

4 WIRE

RATIO
REF

INPUTS

RMS

INPUT

HI

1000V
PEAK

LO

3A

500V
PEAK

R

3A 250V

AMPS

SHIFT

+

AUT O

TRIGGER

DISPLAY

OFF
ON

PREV

NEXT

POWER

DCI ACI

DCV

FILTER

EXTRIG HOLD

SINGLE

FUNCTION

4

2

AUTO

2

LIMITS MX+B

RATIO

STORE

ACV

ACV

DIGITS

TRIGGER

TRIGGER MEMORY

PERIOD

FREQ

%

RECALL

MATH

CONT

dBm

MIN/MAX

LOCAL

TEMP

dB

NULL

SHIFT

PREV

LOCK

ESC

CONFIG

SETUP

NEXT

ENTER

MENU

RANGE

AUTO

PEAK

200V

F

SENSE

FRONT/REAR

Trigger delay

This feature is useful if you need a longer delay time while the system is stabilizing. The time
needed to stabilize a measurement system is called the "settling time." The settling time depends
on the measurement range, cable properties, and signal source.

Trigger delay defaults

The default setting for trigger delay is automatically applied if yo

u do not specify a delay value. The
Model 2100 will automatically select a delay time based on the measurement settings. A list of the
default settings for each measurement function is shown in Table 4-3. The time range for trigger
delay is from 0 to 3,600 seconds. Your selection of delay

time is s

tored in volatile memory; the

default delay time will be restored when the meter is turned-off.

The internal settings of automatic trigger delay

The delay time for automatic trigger delay is det

ermined by the selected combination of
measurement function, range, integration time, and AC filter speed (refer to Table 4-4 for default
measurement delay times).

Table 4-4

Default measurements

Measurement Setting Trigger delay time

DCV/DCI PLC > = 1 1.5ms

PLC < 1 1.0ms

Ω2 and Ω4
(PLC>

1)

100Ω ~ 100kΩ 1.5ms
1MΩ 15ms
10MΩ ~ 100MΩ 100ms

Ω2 and Ω4
(PLC>1)

100Ω ~ 100kΩ 1.0ms
1MΩ 10ms
10MΩ ~ 100MΩ 100ms

Measurement Setting Trigger delay time

ACV / ACI
(remote interface/external
trigger/single trigger)

ACV / ACI
(Front panel w/ auto
trigger ON)

Frequency / period Remote interface / external 1.0s

3Hz 7.0s
20Hz 1.0s
200Hz 600ms
3Hz 1.5s
20Hz 200ms
200Hz 100ms

Front panel w/ auto trigger on 0s

4-18 Return to Section Topics 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007

Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual Section 4: Front Panel Operations

FILTER

NEXT

PREV

DIGITS

RATIO

%

MIN/MAX

NULL

ESC

ENTER

AUTO

SINGLE

TRIGGER

STORE

RECALL

LOCAL

SHIFT

CONFIG

MENU

AUTO

DCV

ACV

22

FREQ

CONT

TEMP

4 WIRE

RATIO

V

INPUT

PEAK

200V

PEAK

HI

LO

PEAK

500V

3A

RMS

INPUTS

3A 250V

FRONT/REAR

AMPS

R

1000V

REF

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

LOCK

SETUP

ACV

22

FUNCTION

DCI ACI

4

PERIOD

LIMITS MX+B

dB

EXTRIG HOLD

MATH

TRIGGER MEMORY

dBm

RANGE

DISPLAY

NEXT

PREV

POWER

OFF
ON

SENSE

F

NEXT

PREV

ENTER

AUTO

MENU

Setting delay time

You can set the delay time from either the front panel or a remote interface.

To set the delay time from the front panel:

1. Press the MENU ke

y and use the PREV and NEXT keys to select TRIG, then press ENTER.

2. Use the PREV and NEXT keys to select DELAY, then press ENTER.

3. Use the up and down arrow keys to move through the digits and to set the desired delay
time (between 0 to 3600 seconds). Refer to Figure 4-13 for the location of the keys.

Figure 4-13

Setting delay time from the front panel

To set the delay time from the remote interface:

You can either set the delay time or set the trigge

r delay to

automatic operation from your PC

terminal using these commands:

TRIGger:DELay {<seconds>|MINimum|MAXimum}

or

TRIGger:DELay:AUTO {OFF|ON}

Math operations

The Model 2100 Digital Multimeter can perform eight math operations: RATIO, %, Min/Max, NULL,
Limits, MX+B, dB, and dBm testing. Data from measurements taken are either stored for later use,
or used to perform mathematical operations on the readings. Note that these math operations are
available to all measurement functions except continuity and diode testing.

NOTE The "MATH" annunciator on the display indicates the state of a mathematical feature and

will be lit when any math feature (excluding Ratio) is enabled. Press the same keys again
to disable the math feature.

NOTE When you press the RATIO key, the "RATIO" annunciator is lit on the display.

2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007 Return to Section Topics 4-19

Section 4: Front Panel Operations Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual

DC input voltage

DC reference voltage

Ratio =

FILTER

NEXT

PREV

DIGITS

RATIO

%

MIN/MAX

NULL

ESC

ENTER

AUTO

SINGLE

TRIGGER

STORE

RECALL

LOCAL

SHIFT

CONFIG

MENU

AUTO

DCV

ACV

22

FREQ

CONT

TEMP

4 WIRE

RATIO

V

INPUT

PEAK

200V

PEAK

HI

LO

PEAK

500V

3A

RMS

INPUTS

3A 250V

FRONT/REAR

AMPS

R

1000V

REF

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

LOCK

SETUP

ACV

22

FUNCTION

DCI ACI

4

PERIOD

LIMITS MX+B

dB

EXTRIG HOLD

MATH

TRIGGER MEMORY

dBm

RANGE

DISPLAY

NEXT

PREV

POWER

OFF

ON

SENSE

F

NEXT

PREV

RATIO

ENTER

CONFIG

INPUTS

Ratio

Definition

The Ratio function calculates the ratio of an input DC voltage to a reference DC voltage, using the
following

How to make a Ratio measurement

There are two ways to make a Ratio measurement: Using the front panel, or using a remote
interface.

T

o make a Ratio measurement from the front panel:

equation:

1. Use the INPUTS button to select th

e front or rear terminals.

2. Connect the DC input signal to the INPUT HI and LO terminals. Connect the reference
signal to the SENSE HI and LO terminals. Connect the SENSE LO to the INPUT LO
terminal.

3. Press CONFIG + RATIO, then use the PREV and NEXT keys to select the
RESOLUTION option (refer to "Resolution settings (digits)") and press ENTER.

4. Select the desired value by pressing the left, right, up, and down arrow keys, then press
ENTER.

5. To start the Ratio function, press the RATIO key and observe the reading on the display
(Figure 4-14 shows the location of the keys used).

NOTE To close this function, press one of the measurement function keys.

Figure 4-14

Making a Ratio measurement from the front panel

To make a ratio measurement using a remote interface:

Use the following command to make a Ratio measurement:

CONFigure:VOLTage:DC:RATio{<range>|MIN|MAX|DEF},{<resolution>|MIN|MAX|DEF}

4-20 Return to Section Topics 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007

Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual Section 4: Front Panel Operations

Input reading • 100

Target value

Percent =

2

V

2

% (Percent)

Definition

This mathematical function calculates the ratio of a measu

rement reading to a specified target

value in the form of a percentage. The calculation formula is shown below:

The specified target value is stored in volatile memory and will

be cleared after the meter has

been turned-off or a remote interface has been reset.

Making a percent measurement

You can make a percent measurement using the front panel or through a remote interface.

To make a percent measurement using the front panel:

1. To specify a target value, first configure

2. Use the PREV and NEXT keys to move through the digits, and the up and down arrow
keys to increase or decrease the numbers to a desired target value.

3. Press ENTER to set the value.

4. Press % to activate this function, then observe the calculated percent value on the display
(Figure 4-15 shows the location of the keys used).

NOTE Press % again to disable this function. The "MATH" annunciator on the display indicates

the state of a mathematical feature.

the % function by pressing CONFIG + %.

Figure 4-15

Making a percent measurement from the front panel

SENSE

200V
PEAK

DISPLAY

OFF
ON

PREV

NEXT

POWER

DCI ACI

DCV

ACV

ACV

DIGITS

AUTO

TRIGGER

LIMITS MX+B

RATIO

FILTER

EXTRIG HOLD

SINGLE

TRIGGER MEMORY

FUNCTION

4

2

2

STORE

PERIOD

FREQ

%

RECALL

MATH

CONT

dBm

MIN/MAX

LOCAL

TEMP

dB

NULL

SHIFT

PREV

LOCK

ESC

CONFIG

SETUP

NEXT

ENTER

MENU

RANGE

AUTO

F

FRONT/REAR

To make a percent measurement from a remote interface:

Use the following commands to enable and configure the % function:

CALCulate:FUNCtion PERCent
CALCulate:STATe {OFF|ON}
CALCulate:STATe?
CALCulate:PERCent:TARGet{<value>|MINimum|MAXimum}
CALCulate:PERCent:TARGet? [MINimum|MAXimum

4 WIRE

RATIO
REF

INPUTS

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

HI

LO

3A

RMS

R

INPUT

3A 250V

AMPS

1000V

PEAK

500V
PEAK

CONFIG

PREV

%

NEXT

ENTER

2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007 Return to Section Topics 4-21

Section 4: Front Panel Operations Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual

2

V

2

2

MIN/MAX

Definition:

When the MIN/MAX function is enabled, the multimeter t

akes in a series of readings from the
measurements, stores the minimum and maximum readings in memory, and then calculates the
average value of all readings. The number of readings taken since the MIN/MAX operation is
enabled is also stored in memory. These data are stored in volatile memory and will be cleared
when the meter is turned off, when MIN/MAX is turned on, or after a remote interface reset. The
meter beeps every time it captures a new minimum or maximum.

Using MIN/MAX

You can use the MIN/MAX feature either through the fr

ont panel or a remote interface.

To use the MIN/MAX function from the front panel:

1. First select the measurement function you want to use.

2. Press the

MIN/MAX key to enable the MIN/MAX function.

3. To read the MIN/MAX value, the average value, or the readings count, press the CONFIG
key, and then the MIN/MAX key. Use the PREV and NEXT keys to switch between those
values (refer to Figure 4-16).

NOTE Press MIN/MAX again to disable this feature. The "MATH" annunciator on the display

indicates the state of a mathematical feature.

Figure 4-16

Using MIN/MAX from the front panel

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

4 WIRE

RATIO
REF

INPUTS

RMS

INPUT

HI

LO

3A

R

3A 250V

AMPS

1000V

PEAK

500V

PEAK

DCV

ACVACV

FREQ

MIN/MAX

PREV

222

TEMP

CONFIG

NEXT

DISPLAY

OFF
ON

PREV

NEXT

POWER

DCI ACI

DCV

ACV

ACV

DIGITS

AUTO

TRIGGER

LIMITS MX+B

RATIO

FILTER

EXTRIG HOLD

SINGLE

TRIGGER MEMORY

FUNCTION

4

2

2

STORE

PERIOD

FREQ

%

RECALL

MATH

CONT

dBm

MIN/MAX

LOCAL

TEMP

dB

NULL

SHIFT

PREV

LOCK

ESC

CONFIG

SETUP

NEXT

ENTER

MENU

RANGE

AUTO

200V

PEAK

F

SENSE

FRONT/REAR

To use the Min/Max function from a remote interface:

erat

The following commands can be used with the Min/Max op

ion from your PC terminal:

CALCulate:FUNCtion AVERage
CALCulate:STATe {OFF|ON}
CALCulate:STATe?
CALCulate:AVERage:MINimum?
CALCulate:AVERage:MAXimum?
CALCulate:AVERage:AVERage?
CALCulate:AVERage:COUNt?

4-22 Return to Section Topics 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007

Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual Section 4: Front Panel Operations

FILTER

NEXT

PREV

DIGITS

RATIO

%

MIN/MAX

NULL

ESC

ENTER

AUTO

SINGLE

TRIGGER

STORE

RECALL

LOCAL

SHIFT

CONFIG

MENU

AUTO

DCV

ACV

22

FREQ

CONT

TEMP

4 WIRE

RATIO

V

INPUT

PEAK

200V

PEAK

HI

LO

PEAK

500V

3A

RMS

INPUTS

3A 250V

FRONT/REAR

AMPS

R

1000V

REF

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

LOCK

SETUP

ACV

22

FUNCTION

DCI ACI

4

PERIOD

LIMITS MX+B

dB

EXTRIG HOLD

MATH

TRIGGER MEMORY

dBm

RANGE

DISPLAY

NEXT

PREV

POWER

OFF
ON

SENSE

F

NEXT

PREV

NULL

ENTER

CONFIG

Null

Definition

When the Null function is enabled, the displayed measurem

ent reading is the difference between
the measured input signal reading and the stored null (also called relative) value. The null
(relative) value is stored in volatile memory, which will be cleared when the multimeter is shut off.

You can also specify or alter a null value. The null feature is

available for all functions (except
continuity and diode). When you select the null feature for a measurement, it is visible only for one
measurement.

Using the Null (relative) function

You can activate the Null function from either t

he front panel or a remote interface.

To use the Null function from the front panel:

NOTE Null measurements can be used with any function except continuity and diode.

1. To store the null test lead resistance, short/connect the

two test leads together and then
press the NULL key. The new reading taken will replace the old value (if any) in the null
register.

2. Connect the two test leads to the input source. The null offset value will show on the display
(refer to Figure 4-17 for the keys to use).

The null offset value can also be adjusted manually from the front panel:

1. Press CONFIG, then NULL.

2. Use the

PREV and NEXT keys to move through the digits, and use the up and down arrow

keys to increase or decrease the numbers to the desired value.

3. Press ENTER.

NOTE Press NULL again to disable this feature. The "MATH" annunciator on the display

indicates the state of a mathematical feature.

Figure 4-17

Using the NULL function from the front panel

To use the NULL function from a remote interface:

You can use the following commands on your PC terminal to make a Null measurement:

2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007 Return to Section Topics 4-23

Section 4: Front Panel Operations Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual

FILTER

NEXT

PREV

DIGITS

RATIO

%

MIN/MAX

NULL

ESC

ENTER

AUTO

SINGLE

TRIGGER

STORE

RECALL

LOCAL

SHIFT

CONFIG

MENU

AUTO

DCV

ACV

22

FREQ

CONT

TEMP

4 WIRE

RATIO

V

INPUT

PEAK

200V

PEAK

HI

LO

PEAK

500V

3A

RMS

INPUTS

3A 250V

FRONT/REAR

AMPS

R

1000V

REF

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

LOCK

SETUP

ACV

22

FUNCTION

DCI ACI

4

PERIOD

LIMITS MX+B

dB

EXTRIG HOLD

MATH

TRIGGER MEMORY

dBm

RANGE

DISPLAY

NEXT

PREV

POWER

OFF
ON

SENSE

F

NEXT

PREV

RATIO

ENTER

SHIFT

CONFIG

CALCulate:FUNCtion
NULLCALCulate:STATe {OFF|ON}
CALCulate:STATe?
CALCulate:NULL:OFFSet {<value>|MAXimum|MINimum}

Limits test

Definition

The limits testing operation allows you to adjust

maximal and minimal limit values. The multimeter
beeps and a "HI" or "LO" message will be shown when the reading exceeds the upper or lower
limits. When you specify the limit values, they are stored in volatile memory. The default values for
both upper and lower limits are "0." This function can be used with all measurements (except
continuity and diode measurements).

Setting limits values or making a limits test

You can set limit values or make a limits test either thr

ough the front panel or a remote interface.

To set limits values from the front panel:

1. Configure the Limits math function by pressing CONFIG

+ SHIFT + RATIO, and then use

the PREV and NEXT keys to select either MIN or MAX, and press ENTER.

2. Use the PREV and NEXT keys to move through the digits and the up and down arrow
keys to increase or decrease the numbers to a desired value.

3. Press ENTER to set the value (refer to Figure 4-18).

Figure 4-18

Configuring the Limits function from the front panel

To make a limits test from the front panel:

1. Select any measurement function (except continuity and diode).

2.

Enable the Limits function by pressing the SHIFT + RATIO keys.

3. After enabling the Limits function, you can set the limits values as described above.

4. Observe the displayed reading (refer to Figure 4-19 for the location of the keys to use).

NOTE Press SHIFT + RATIO again to disable this feature. The "MATH" annunciator on the

display indicates the state of a mathematical feature.

4-24 Return to Section Topics 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007

Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual Section 4: Front Panel Operations

FILTER

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PREV

DIGITS

RATIO

%

MIN/MAX

NULL

ESC

ENTER

AUTO

SINGLE

TRIGGER

STORE

RECALL

LOCAL

SHIFT

CONFIG

MENU

AUTO

DCV

ACV

22

FREQ

CONT

TEMP

4 WIRE

RATIO

V

INPUT

PEAK

200V
PEAK

HI

LO

PEAK

500V

3A

RMS

INPUTS

3A 250V

FRONT/REAR

AMPS

R

1000V

REF

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

LOCK

SETUP

ACV

22

FUNCTION

DCI ACI

4

PERIOD

LIMITS MX+B

dB

EXTRIG HOLD

MATH

TRIGGER MEMORY

dBm

RANGE

DISPLAY

NEXT

PREV

POWER

OFF
ON

SENSE

F

SHIFT

DCV

FREQ

TEMP

ACVACV

2222

RATIO

Figure 4-19

Making a limits test from the front panel

MX+B

To enable the Limits function or set limits v

Use the following commands to enable the Limits function or to set the limit

alues from a remote interface:

s values:

CALCulate:FUNCtion
LIMitCALCulate:STATe {OFF|ON}
CALCulate:STATe?
CALCulate:LIMit:LOWer {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum}
CALCulate:LIMit:UPPer {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum}

Definition

This mathematical function multiplies a m

easurement reading (X) by a specified scale factor (M),
and adds an offset (B) automatically. The answer (Y) will then be shown on the display according
to the following equation:

Y=MX+B

This is especially useful when you need to do slope calculat

ions on a series of measurements.
The values of the "M" and "B" can be changed through the configuration of this function; these
values are stored in volatile memory until the meter has been turned off or the remote interface is
reset. You can use either the front panel or remote interface to perform this function and set these
two constants.

To use the MX+B function from the front panel:

NOTE Set the values of M and B before selecting a measurement function.

1. Set the values of M and B for your math function by pressing CONFIG and SHIFT + %.

2.

Use the PREV and NEXT keys to switch between M and B, and press ENTER on your
selection.

3. Then use the PREV and NEXT keys to move through the digits, and use the up and down
arrow keys to increase or decrease the number to the desired value.

4. Press ENTER to set the value.

5. Select a measurement function and press SHIFT + % to activate the MX+B function (refer to

Figure 4-20).

2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007 Return to Section Topics 4-25

Section 4: Front Panel Operations Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual

FILTER

NEXT

PREV

DIGITS

RATIO

%

MIN/MAX

NULL

ESC

ENTER

AUTO

SINGLE

TRIGGER

STORE

RECALL

LOCAL

SHIFT

CONFIG

MENU

AUTO

DCV

ACV

22

FREQ

CONT

TEMP

4 WIRE

RATIO

V

INPUT

PEAK

200V

PEAK

HI

LO

PEAK

500V

3A

RMS

INPUTS

3A 250V

FRONT/REAR

AMPS

R

1000V

REF

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

LOCK

SETUP

ACV

22

FUNCTION

DCI ACI

4

PERIOD

LIMITS MX+B

dB

EXTRIG HOLD

MATH

TRIGGER MEMORY

dBm

RANGE

DISPLAY

NEXT

PREV

POWER

OFF
ON

SENSE

F

NEXT

PREV

%

ENTER

SHIFT

CONFIG

Figure 4-20

Using the MX+B function from the front panel

To use the MX+B function from a remote interface:

Use the following commands to enable and configure the MX+B function:

CALCulate:FUNCtion MXB
CALCulate:STATe {OFF|ON}
CALCulate:STATe?
CALCulate:MXB:MMFactor {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum}
CALCulate:MXB:MMFactor? [MINimum|MAXimum]
CALCulate:MXB:MBFactor {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum}
CALCulate:MXB:MBFactor? [MINimum|MAXimum]

dB

Definition

The dB feature takes a DC or AC voltage measurement and displays it in decibel units that
corr

espond with a relative reference value. The calculation of dB is listed below:

dB = 20 x log(Vin / Vref)

or

dB = (Inp

NOTE The Vin is the input signal and the Vref is the relative reference.

The dB measurement is applied to DC and AC voltage only. Th
0dBm to 200dBm) and is stored in volatile memory.

Setting the relative reference value

You can either manually select a number for the relative refer
first reading (0dB):

To set the relative reference value from the front panel:

1. Press the CONFIG + SHIFT + NULL keys.

2. Use th

e PREV and NEXT keys to move through the digits and the up and down arrow keys

to increase or decrease the numbers to the desired value.

3. Press ENTER to set the value (refer to Figure 4-21).

4-26 Return to Section Topics 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007

ut signal in dBm) - (relative value in dBm)

e relative value is adjustable (from

ence, or let the multimeter take the

Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual Section 4: Front Panel Operations

FILTER

NEXT

PREV

DIGITS

RATIO

%

MIN/MAX

NULL

ESC

ENTER

AUTO

SINGLE

TRIGGER

STORE

RECALL

LOCAL

SHIFT

CONFIG

MENU

AUTO

DCV

ACV

22

FREQ

CONT

TEMP

4 WIRE

RATIO

V

INPUT

PEAK

200V
PEAK

HI

LO

PEAK

500V

3A

RMS

INPUTS

3A 250V

FRONT/REAR

AMPS

R

1000V

REF

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

LOCK

SETUP

ACV

22

FUNCTION

DCI ACI

4

PERIOD

LIMITS MX+B

dB

EXTRIG HOLD

MATH

TRIGGER MEMORY

dBm

RANGE

DISPLAY

NEXT

PREV

POWER

OFF
ON

SENSE

F

NEXT

PREV

NULL

ENTER

SHIFT

CONFIG

FILTER

NEXT

PREV

DIGITS

RATIO

%

MIN/MAX

NULL

ESC

ENTER

AUTO

SINGLE

TRIGGER

STORE

RECALL

LOCAL

SHIFT

CONFIG

MENU

AUTO

DCV

ACV

22

FREQ

CONT

TEMP

4 WIRE

RATIO

V

INPUT

PEAK

200V
PEAK

HI

LO

PEAK

500V

3A

RMS

INPUTS

3A 250V

FRONT/REAR

AMPS

R

1000V

REF

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

LOCK

SETUP

ACV

22

FUNCTION

DCI ACI

4

PERIOD

LIMITS MX+B

dB

EXTRIG HOLD

MATH

TRIGGER MEMORY

dBm

RANGE

DISPLAY

NEXT

PREV

POWER

OFF
ON

SENSE

F

NULL

SHIFT

DCV

ACVACV

Figure 4-21

Setting the relative reference value

To make a dB measurement from the front panel:

1. Select the measurement function by pressing one of the DCV or ACV keys.

2.

Enable the dB operation by pressing SHIFT + NULL keys.

3. After enabling the dB operation, you can set or alter the dB relative value as mentioned
above.

4. Observe the displayed reading (refer to Figure 4-22 for the location of the keys used).

NOTE Press SHIFT + NULL again to disable this feature. The "MATH" annunciator on the

display indicates the state of a mathematical feature.

Figure 4-22

Making a dB measurement from the front panel

To make a dB measurement from a remote interface:

Use the following commands from your PC terminal to make the dB measurement:

CALCulate:FUNCtion DB
CALCulate:STATe {OFF|ON}
CALCulate:STATe?
CALCulate:DB:REFerence {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum}

dBm

Definition

With dBm selected, a voltage measurement is displayed as the level of power (relative to 1
milliwatt) diss
Model 2100 Digital Multimeter. The calculation of dBm is defined as below:

2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007 Return to Section Topics 4-27

ipated through a reference resistance. The reference resistance is adjustable in the

Section 4: Front Panel Operations Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual

FILTER

NEXT

PREV

DIGITS

RATIO

%

MIN/MAX

NULL

ESC

ENTER

AUTO

SINGLE

TRIGGER

STORE

RECALL

LOCAL

SHIFT

CONFIG

MENU

AUTO

DCV

ACV

22

FREQ

CONT

TEMP

4 WIRE

RATIO

V

INPUT

PEAK

200V

PEAK

HI

LO

PEAK

500V

3A

RMS

INPUTS

3A 250V

FRONT/REAR

AMPS

R

1000V

REF

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

LOCK

SETUP

ACV

22

FUNCTION

DCI ACI

4

PERIOD

LIMITS MX+B

dB

EXTRIG HOLD

MATH

TRIGGER MEMORY

dBm

RANGE

DISPLAY

NEXT

PREV

POWER

OFF
ON

SENSE

F

NEXT

PREV

MIN/MAX

ENTER

SHIFT

CONFIG

dBm = 10 x log(V

2

/Z

)/1mW

ref

in

NOTE Vin is the input signal voltage; Zref is the reference resistance. Changing the reference

resistance will not affect the stored relative reference value. The Zref is adjustable, with a
range from 50Ω to 8000Ω (the default value is 600Ω). The user-selected reference value
is stored in volatile memory and will be cleared after the multimeter has been shut-off.
This feature is available for DCV and ACV only.

Setting the reference resistance

You can set the reference resistance either through the front panel or from a remote interface.

To set the reference resistance from the front panel:

1. Press the CONFIG + SHIFT + MIN/MA

X keys.

2. Use the PREV and NEXT keys to move through the digits and the up and down arrow keys
to increase or decrease the numbers to the desired value.

3. Press ENTER to set the value (refer to Figure 4-23 for the location of the keys used).

Figure 4-23

Setting the reference resistance from the front panel

Making a dBm measurement

To make a dBm measurement from the front panel:

1. Select the measurement functio

n by pr

essing one of the DCV or ACV keys (the dBm feature

is only available for the DCV and ACV functions).

2. Enable the dBm operation by pressing SHIFT + MIN/MAX keys.

3. After enabling the dBm operation, you can set or alter the dBm relative value as mentioned
above.

4. Observe the displayed reading (refer to Figure 4-24 for the location of the keys used).

NOTE Press SHIFT + MIN/MAX again to disable this feature. The "MATH" annunciator on the

display indicates the state of a mathematical feature.

4-28 Return to Section Topics 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007

Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual Section 4: Front Panel Operations

FILTER

NEXT

PREV

DIGITS

RATIO

%

MIN/MAX

NULL

ESC

ENTER

AUTO

SINGLE

TRIGGER

STORE

RECALL

LOCAL

SHIFT

CONFIG

MENU

AUTO

DCV

ACV

22

FREQ

CONT

TEMP

4 WIRE

RATIO

V

INPUT

PEAK

200V

PEAK

HI

LO

PEAK

500V

3A

RMS

INPUTS

3A 250V

FRONT/REAR

AMPS

R

1000V

REF

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

LOCK

SETUP

ACV

22

FUNCTION

DCI ACI

4

PERIOD

LIMITS MX+B

dB

EXTRIG HOLD

MATH

TRIGGER MEMORY

dBm

RANGE

DISPLAY

NEXT

PREV

POWER

OFF
ON

SENSE

F

SHIFT

MIN/MAX

DCV

ACVACV

Figure 4-24

Making a dBm measurement from the front panel

To make a dBm measurement from a remote interface:

e following commands from your PC terminal to make the dBm measurement:

Use th

CALCulate:FUNCtion DBM
CALCulate:STATe {OFF|ON}
CALCulate:STATe?
CALCulate:DBM:REFerence {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum}

Other system-related operations

Each system-related operation performs a task that is not measurement-related but plays an
important role in making your measurements.

Display

Definition

The Model 2100 Digital Multimeter has a 5x7 dot-matrix, dual displa
and yellow) annunciators for better viewing. A maximum of 13 characters are allowed for upper
row dot-matrix display, and a maximum 16 characters are allowed for lower row dot-matrix display
(refer to Figure 4-25).

Figure 4-25

The Model 2100 dot-matrix display screen

y with three-color (white, red

adings on the

instrument display for faster

You also have the option to turn off measurement re
measurements. When "OFF" is lit at the lower right corner of the display screen, measurement
readings will not be sent to the instrument display, but can be viewed later from a remote interface
(note that this does not mean the display is turned-off). This option accelerates the measurement
process because there is no I/O delay. Turning-off the measurement readings on the instrument
display will not affect the messages displayed from the Recall, Menu, and Config operations.

2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007 Return to Section Topics 4-29

Section 4: Front Panel Operations Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual

FILTER

NEXT

PREV

DIGITS

RATIO

%

MIN/MAX

NULL

ESC

ENTER

AUTO

SINGLE

TRIGGER

STORE

RECALL

LOCAL

SHIFT

CONFIG

MENU

AUTO

DCV

ACV

22

FREQ

CONT

TEMP

4 WIRE

RATIO

V

INPUT

PEAK

200V
PEAK

HI

LO

PEAK

500V

3A

RMS

INPUTS

3A 250V

FRONT/REAR

AMPS

R

1000V

REF

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

LOCK

SETUP

ACV

22

FUNCTION

DCI ACI

4

PERIOD

LIMITS MX+B

dB

EXTRIG HOLD

MATH

TRIGGER MEMORY

dBm

RANGE

DISPLAY

NEXT

PREV

POWER

OFF
ON

SENSE

F

NEXT

PREV

ENTER

MENU

NOTE Messages sent from a remote interface (for instance, your PC terminal) will replace the

messages on the lower row of the original instrument display.

Default

The instrument display default is "ON." If you chang

e the "ON/OFF" setting (which is stored in

volatile memory), the default setting will be restored when the meter is shut-off.

Controlling the Model 2100 display

You can control the instrument display through the front panel or using a remote interface.

NOTE Messages sent from a remote interface will have priority over messages sent from the

front panel.

To control the instrument display from the front panel:

1. Press the MENU key.

2. Use th

e PREV and NEXT keys to select the SYSTEM submenu and press ENTER.

3. Use the PREV and NEXT keys to select the DISPLAY submenu and press ENTER.

4. Use the PREV and NEXT keys to select either ON or OFF and press ENTER (refer to

Figure 4-26).

Figure 4-26

Controlling the display from the front panel

Controlling the display from

To

control the instrument display from a remote interface:

Use the following co

mmands to control the inst

a remote interface

rument display, or to send a message to the

display:

DISPlay {OFF|ON} Turn
DISPlay:TEXT <quoted string> Displays

s the display off or on

the string you type in

DISPlay:TEXT:CLEar Clears the message displayed

Beeper

Definition

The Model 2100 Digital Multimeter beeps when certain conditions are met or when an error
occur

s. When you don't want the beeper to sound, you can disable it. Although you can turn off the
beeper, the click sound you hear when a key is pressed will not be disabled. The beeper state is
stored in volatile memory, and the default will be restored when the meter has been turned-off or
after a remote interface reset.

4-30 Return to Section Topics 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007

Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual Section 4: Front Panel Operations

FILTER

NEXT

PREV

DIGITS

RATIO

%

MIN/MAX

NULL

ESC

ENTER

AUTO

SINGLE

TRIGGER

STORE

RECALL

LOCAL

SHIFT

CONFIG

MENU

AUTO

DCV

ACV

22

FREQ

CONT

TEMP

4 WIRE

RATIO

V

INPUT

PEAK

200V
PEAK

HI

LO

PEAK

500V

3A

RMS

INPUTS

3A 250V

FRONT/REAR

AMPS

R

1000V

REF

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

LOCK

SETUP

ACV

22

FUNCTION

DCI ACI

4

PERIOD

LIMITS MX+B

dB

EXTRIG HOLD

MATH

TRIGGER MEMORY

dBm

RANGE

DISPLAY

NEXT

PREV

POWER

OFF
ON

SENSE

F

NEXT

PREV

ENTER

MENU

If the beeper is disabled, you will not hear meter beeps when:

• A new minimum or maximum is found in Min/Max operation.

• A stable reading is detected and held.
s

• The test voltage is within the limit

in diode testing.

• The source signal fails the limit testing.

If the beeper is disabled,

the meter still emits a tone when:

• An error occurs.

• Any key on the front panel is pressed.

• The threshold value is exceeded in continuity testing.

Default beeper setting

The beeper is enabled when it is shipped from the factory.

Controlling the beeper

You can control the beeper from either the front panel or the remote interface.

To control the beeper from the front panel:

1. Press the MENU ke

use the PREV and NEXT keys to select the SYSTEM

y then

submenu, and press ENTER.

2. Use the PREV and NEXT keys to select the BEEP submenu, and press ENTER.

3. Use the PREV and NEXT keys to select ON or OFF and press ENTER

(refer to Figure 4-27).

Procedures: MENU SYSTEM BEEP {ON|OFF}

Figure 4-27

Controlling the beeper from the front panel

To control the beeper from a remote interface:

Use the following commands to disable or enable the beeper from a remote interface:

SYSTem:BEEPer
SYSTem:BEEPer:STATe {OFF|ON}

Reading memory (store and recall)

Definition

The Model 2100 Digital Multimeter has a memory capacity of 2000 readings. The readings are
stored in first-in-first-out order in

2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007 Return to Section Topics 4-31

volatile memory, which means the stored readings will be cleared

Section 4: Front Panel Operations Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual

FILTER

NEXT

PREV

DIGITS

RATIO

%

MIN/MAX

NULL

ESC

ENTER

AUTO

SINGLE

TRIGGER

STORE

RECALL

LOCAL

SHIFT

CONFIG

MENU

AUTO

DCV

ACV

22

FREQ

CONT

TEMP

4 WIRE

RATIO

V

INPUT

PEAK

200V

PEAK

HI

LO

PEAK

500V

3A

RMS

INPUTS

3A 250V

FRONT/REAR

AMPS

R

1000V

REF

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

LOCK

SETUP

ACV

22

FUNCTION

DCI ACI

4

PERIOD

LIMITS MX+B

dB

EXTRIG HOLD

MATH

TRIGGER MEMORY

dBm

RANGE

DISPLAY

NEXT

PREV

POWER

OFF
ON

SENSE

F

NEXT

PREV

ENTER

STORE

CONFIG

when the multimeter is turned-off. The reading memory feature can be used for all measurement
functions, math operations, trigger operations, and reading hold.

Using the reading memory

You can store readings and access those readings through either the front panel or a remote
interface.

NOTE Readings stored from the Model 2100 to a remote interface will be stored in first-in- first-

out order.

To store readings from the front panel:

NOTE When using the reading memory feature, you first need to select a measurement or math

function, then select the trigger mode.

1. Press the STORE key

. The multimeter will start to store the readings produced until the

specified number of readings is reached. The default number of readings to store is 100.

2. To change number of readings to store, press the CONFIG and then STORE keys.

3. Use PREV and NEXT keys to move between the digits and up and down arrow keys to
increase or decrease numbers as desired.

When ready, press ENTER

(the default number of readings

will be restored when the meter has

been turned off). Refer to Figure 4-28.

NOTE The "MEM" annunciator is lit while the multimeter stores readings, and then turned-off

when the specified number of readings is reached.

Procedures: CONFIG + STORE <NUMBER>

Figure 4-28

Storing readings from the front panel

To recall stored readings from the front panel:

1. Press the RECALL key.

The multimeter will display all the stored readings starting from the

first reading.

2. Use the PREV and NEXT keys or the up and down arrow keys to move from the first
reading to the last reading the meter has stored (refer to Figure 4-29).

4-32 Return to Section Topics 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007

Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual Section 4: Front Panel Operations

FILTER

NEXT

PREV

DIGITS

RATIO

%

MIN/MAX

NULL

ESC

ENTER

AUTO

SINGLE

TRIGGER

STORE

RECALL

LOCAL

SHIFT

CONFIG

MENU

AUTO

DCV

ACV

22

FREQ

CONT

TEMP

4 WIRE

RATIO

V

INPUT

PEAK

200V

PEAK

HI

LO

PEAK

500V

3A

RMS

INPUTS

3A 250V

FRONT/REAR

AMPS

R

1000V

REF

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

LOCK

SETUP

ACV

22

FUNCTION

DCI ACI

4

PERIOD

LIMITS MX+B

dB

EXTRIG HOLD

MATH

TRIGGER MEMORY

dBm

RANGE

DISPLAY

NEXT

PREV

POWER

OFF
ON

SENSE

F

NEXT

PREV

RECALL

Figure 4-29

Recalling readings from t

he front panel

To store or retrieve readings from a remote interface:

Use the following commands from a remote interface to store or retrieve readings:

NOTE The value set for the Store function only can be set through front panel.

INITiate Sets the

multimeter to "wait-for-trigger" state; after a measurement is taken,

measurement readings will be placed in the memory

FETCh? Use this command

DATA:POINts? Use this

command to query the number of stored readings

to retrieve stored readings

Sensitivity band (Hold)

Definition:

The reading hold function captures and holds a stable reading on the display. The multimeter
beeps
decides which reading is stable enough. This band is expressed as a percent of reading on the
selected range. The multimeter considers a reading stable when three consecutive values are
within the band; you can adjust this sensitivity band.

Default

The default band setting is 0.1%. Your setting is
after the meter has been turned-off.

Adjusting the sensitivity band

You can adjust the sensitivity band through the front panel.

To adjust the sensitivity band from the front panel:

1. Press the MENU

2. Press ENTER, then again use the PREV and NEXT arrow keys to select the READ HOLD

3. Press ENTER, then use PREV and NEXT keys to choose the desired band.

4. Press ENTER to set the desired sensitivity band (refer to Figure 4-30).

2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007 Return to Section Topics 4-33

and holds the value when it detects a stable reading. The sensitivity band in reading hold

stored in a volatile memory, and will be cleared

, then use the PREV and NEXT arrow keys to select the TRIG

key

submenu.

submenu.

Section 4: Front Panel Operations Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual

2

V

2

Figure 4-30

Adjusting the sensitivity band from the front panel

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

RATIO
REF

INPUTS

LO

RMS

INPUT

PREV

MENU

NEXT

ENTER

HI

1000V

PEAK

3A

500V
PEAK

R

3A 250V

AMPS

DISPLAY

OFF
ON

PREV

NEXT

POWER

DCI ACI

DCV

ACV

ACV

DIGITS

AUTO

TRIGGER

LIMITS MX+B

RATIO

STORE

FILTER

EXTRIG HOLD

SINGLE

TRIGGER MEMORY

FUNCTION

4

2

2

PERIOD

FREQ

%

RECALL

MATH

CONT

dBm

MIN/MAX

LOCAL

TEMP

dB

NULL

SHIFT

PREV

LOCK

ESC

CONFIG

SETUP

NEXT

ENTER

MENU

RANGE

AUTO

200V

PEAK

F

SENSE

4 WIRE

FRONT/REAR

Initial mode

Definition

Initial mode has two settings: DEFAULT a

nd SAVE DATA. You can select SAVE DATA to save the
current configuration, or select DEFAULT to restore the factory default configuration after
restarting the Model 2100. The valid ranges for SAVE DATA are listed in Table 4-5.

Table 4-5

Valid values of Save Data

No. Items of Save Data Contents

on

1C

tinuity
2 Diode
3 Temperature

dBm Reference resistance

4

mx + B Values: m, B

5

Reading hold Sensitivity band

6

Threshold resistance
Boundary voltage
Sensor type & units

To save settings or restore default settings from the front panel:

1. Press the MENU key an

d use the PREV and NEXT keys to select the SYSTEM submenu.

2. Press ENTER and use the PREV and NEXT keys to select the INIT MODE submenu.

3. Press ENTER, and use the PREV and NEXT keys to select either SAVE DATA to save your
current settings, or DEFAULT to return to default settings.

4. Press ENTER to save your selection (refer to Figure 4-31).

4-34 Return to Section Topics 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007

Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual Section 4: Front Panel Operations

FILTER

NEXT

PREV

DIGITS

RATIO

%

MIN/MAX

NULL

ESC

ENTER

AUTO

SINGLE

TRIGGER

STORE

RECALL

LOCAL

SHIFT

CONFIG

MENU

AUTO

DCV

ACV

22

FREQ

CONT

TEMP

4 WIRE

RATIO

V

INPUT

PEAK

200V
PEAK

HI

LO

PEAK

500V

3A

RMS

INPUTS

3A 250V

FRONT/REAR

AMPS

R

1000V

REF

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

LOCK

SETUP

ACV

22

FUNCTION

DCI ACI

4

PERIOD

LIMITS MX+B

dB

EXTRIG HOLD

MATH

TRIGGER MEMORY

dBm

RANGE

DISPLAY

NEXT

PREV

POWER

OFF
ON

SENSE

F

NEXT

PREV

ENTER

MENU

FILTER

NEXT

PREV

DIGITS

RATIO

%

MIN/MAX

NULL

ESC

ENTER

AUTO

SINGLE

TRIGGER

STORE

RECALL

LOCAL

SHIFT

CONFIG

MENU

AUTO

DCV

ACV

22

FREQ

CONT

TEMP

4 WIRE

RATIO

V

INPUT

PEAK

200V
PEAK

HI

LO

PEAK

500V

3A

RMS

INPUTS

3A 250V

FRONT/REAR

AMPS

R

1000V

REF

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

LOCK

SETUP

ACV

22

FUNCTION

DCI ACI

4

PERIOD

LIMITS MX+B

dB

EXTRIG HOLD

MATH

TRIGGER MEMORY

dBm

RANGE

DISPLAY

NEXT

PREV

POWER

OFF
ON

SENSE

F

NEXT

PREV

ENTER

MENU

Figure 4-31

Saving or restoring default settings

Language

The Model 2100 Digital Multimeter supports two languages: Default and A34401.

To select a language:

1. Press the MENU key

, and use the PREV and NEXT keys to select the SYSTEM

submenu.

2. Press ENTER, then use the PREV and NEXT keys to select the LANGUAGE submenu.

3. Press ENTER, then use the PREV and NEXT keys to select either Default or A34401.
Press ENTER to save your selection (refer to Figure 4-32).

Figure 4-32

Selecting a language

Error condition

The error annunciator on the front panel display alerts you that the multimeter has an error
condition. If there are one or more syntax or hardware errors found, the error annunciator will be lit

u have read the errors in the memory.

to inform the user. The multimeter stores errors using the first-in-first-out (FIFO) order, and it can
record up to 20 errors in the error queue. The first error detected will be the first error retrieved.
Refer to Section 6 for the list of error messages.

Also note that:

• The error annunciator will be turned off when yo

2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007 Return to Section Topics 4-35

Section 4: Front Panel Operations Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual

FILTER

NEXT

PREV

DIGITS

RATIO

%

MIN/MAX

NULL

ESC

ENTER

AUTO

SINGLE

TRIGGER

STORE

RECALL

LOCAL

SHIFT

CONFIG

MENU

AUTO

DCV

ACV

22

FREQ

CONT

TEMP

4 WIRE

RATIO

V

INPUT

PEAK

200V
PEAK

HI

LO

PEAK

500V

3A

RMS

INPUTS

3A 250V

FRONT/REAR

AMPS

R

1000V

REF

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

LOCK

SETUP

ACV

22

FUNCTION

DCI ACI

4

PERIOD

LIMITS MX+B

dB

EXTRIG HOLD

MATH

TRIGGER MEMORY

dBm

RANGE

DISPLAY

NEXT

PREV

POWER

OFF
ON

SENSE

F

NEXT

PREV

ENTER

MENU

• If there is no error found when you check the error queue, the multimeter shows "NO
ERRORS."

• If there are more than 20 errors found, the last error in the error queue will be replaced with

350," which mea

"-

• The error queue is cleared when the multimeter

ns there are too many errors.

is tu

rned off, or when a *CLS command is

received.

To check the error queue:

1. Press the MENU key

, then use the PREV and NEXT keys to select the SYSTEM

submenu.

2. Press ENTER, then use the PREV and NEXT keys to select the ERROR option.

3. Press ENTER, and the message about the error queue will show on the display (refer to

Figure 4-33 for the location of the keys used). See Section 6 for descriptions of error

messages.

Figure 4-33

Checking the error queue

Firmware revision

Definition

The Model 2100 has three microprocessors for various internal systems. You can query the
multim

eter to determine which revision of firmware is installed for each microprocessor.

To check the firmware revision:

1. Press the MENU key an
submenu.

2. Press ENTER, then use the PREV and NEXT keys to select the SYSTEM VER. option.

3. Press ENTER to select it; a three-part code in xx-xx-xx format will appear on the display.
The first part of the code, xx.xx, is the firmware version of the digital signal processor (DSP);
the second code, xx, represents the panel microprocessor; and the last code, xx, indicates
the front-end processor firmware version (refer to Figure 4-34).

4-36 Return to Section Topics 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007

d then use the PREV and NEXT keys to select the SYSTEM

Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual Section 4: Front Panel Operations

FILTER

NEXT

PREV

DIGITS

RATIO

%

MIN/MAX

NULL

ESC

ENTER

AUTO

SINGLE

TRIGGER

STORE

RECALL

LOCAL

SHIFT

CONFIG

MENU

AUTO

DCV

ACV

22

FREQ

CONT

TEMP

4 WIRE

RATIO

V

INPUT

PEAK

200V
PEAK

HI

LO

PEAK

500V

3A

RMS

INPUTS

3A 250V

FRONT/REAR

AMPS

R

1000V

REF

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

LOCK

SETUP

ACV

22

FUNCTION

DCI ACI

4

PERIOD

LIMITS MX+B

dB

EXTRIG HOLD

MATH

TRIGGER MEMORY

dBm

RANGE

DISPLAY

NEXT

PREV

POWER

OFF
ON

SENSE

F

NEXT

PREV

ENTER

MENU

Figure 4-34

Checking the firmware revision

Occasionally, updated firmware for the Model 2100 is

released. The Product Information CD-ROM
that came with your Model 2100 contains the latest firmware revision available at the time of
shipping.

To install updated firmware for the Model 2100:

NOTE You must have one of the following items installed on your computer in order to obtain

the proper VISA layer (Keithley Instruments I/O Layer 5.0 is included on the CD-ROM
that came with your Model 2100):

• Keithley Instruments I/O Layer 5.0 (KIOL-850BO5) or greater

• NI-VISA 3.1 or greater

• Agilent I/O Library Suite 14.2 or greater

1. Connect your Model 2100 to your computer with the included USB cable.

2. Insert

the Product Information CD-ROM that came with your Model 2100 into the CD drive
of your computer (or navigate to the files you downloaded from the Keithley Instruments
website) and double-click the DmmUpdate.exe file to begin the installation of the Model
2100 firmware update.

3. When the 2100 (USBTMC) Update Version window appears, click the Select button (see

Figure 4-35).

Figure 4-35

Installing the Model 2100 firmware update

2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007 Return to Section Topics 4-37

Section 4: Front Panel Operations Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual

4. The Open dialog box will appear. The files for the front-end firmware and the digital signal
processor (DSP) updates are listed (see Figure 4-36):

• 1232_xxx.bin Updates the front-end firmware version

• 5407_xx.xx.bin Updates the DSP f

NOTE Filenames may vary, depending upon which version of firmware you are installing. The

irmware version

“xx.xx” and “xxx” in the filenames in this example represent alpha-numeric values that
denote specific firmware revisions.

Figure 4-36

The Open dialog box

5. Highlight the 5407_xx.xx.bi
version update. The 2100 (USBTMC) Update Version window will display a "Please wait"
message while the file is executing, as shown in Figure 4-37.

Figure 4-37

Model 2100 firmware upgrade in progress

6. Once installation of the D

SP firmware update file is c
restart your Model 2100 to continue the update (see Figure 4-38). Power the Model 2100
off, and then power it on again.

n

file and click Open (see Figure 4-36) to start the DSP firmware

omplete, you will be prompted to

4-38 Return to Section Topics 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007

Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual Section 4: Front Panel Operations

Figure 4-38

Restart device to complete update message

NOTE An error message may appear on the front-panel display when you restart your Model

2100. If it does, you will need to click Continue and install the front-end firmware revision
update file (1232_xxx.bin) following the procedures listed above.

If you do not receive an error message, you do not need to install the 1232_xxx.bin
update

file.

7. The 2100 (USBTMC) Update Version window will reappear when the installation is
complete. Click Exit to exit the firmware update installation (see Figure 4-38).

To confirm the update has been properly completed, che

ck the firmware revision number (see To

check the firmware revision).

2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007 Return to Section Topics 4-39

Section 4: Front Panel Operations Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual

FILTER

NEXT

PREV

DIGITS

RATIO

%

MIN/MAX

NULL

ESC

ENTER

AUTO

SINGLE

TRIGGER

STORE

RECALL

LOCAL

SHIFT

CONFIG

MENU

AUTO

DCV

ACV

22

FREQ

CONT

TEMP

4 WIRE

RATIO

V

INPUT

PEAK

200V
PEAK

HI

LO

PEAK

500V

3A

RMS

INPUTS

3A 250V

FRONT/REAR

AMPS

R

1000V

REF

CAT 1000V
CAT 600V

LOCK

SETUP

ACV

22

FUNCTION

DCI ACI

4

PERIOD

LIMITS MX+B

dB

EXTRIG HOLD

MATH

TRIGGER MEMORY

dBm

RANGE

DISPLAY

NEXT

PREV

POWER

OFF
ON

SENSE

F

NEXT

PREV

ENTER

MENU

Calibration

The Model 2100 will show the latest calibrated date and the next calibration date on the display
after following the operation below (refer to Figure 4-39 for the location of the keys used).

To view calibration information:

1. Press the MENU key, then

use the PREV and NEXT keys to select the CALIBRATE option.

2. Press ENTER, then use the PREV and NEXT keys to switch between the last calibrated
date and the next calibration date.

Figure 4-39

Viewing calibration information

4-40 Return to Section Topics 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007

In this section:

Top ic Pa ge

Introduction ......................................................................................... 5-2

Setting up the remote interface........................................................... 5-2

Remote interface commands .............................................................. 5-3

Triggering ............................................................................................ 5-8

System-related commands ................................................................. 5-9

Section 5

Remote Interface Operations

Pass/fail output from the USB connector...................................... 5-2

Common commands .................................................................... 5-3

Other measurement configuration commands ............................. 5-7

Math operation commands ........................................................... 5-7

Triggering commands................................................................... 5-8

Status reporting commands.......................................................... 5-9

Other interface commands ........................................................... 5-10

Section 5: Remote Interface Operations Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual

Introduction

The Keithley Instruments Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter has a built-in USB
interface for remote interface operations.

This section provides an overview of some of the
Programmable Instruments) available to control the Model 2100. For a more detailed explanation
of SCPI commands, refer to “Appendix B: Remote Interface Reference.”

Pass/fail output from the USB connector

The USB connector on the rear panel of the Model 2100 is a series "B" connector. When the USB
interface is disabled, the internal pass and fail TTL output signals (limit testing) will be connected
to the USB connector.

The Pass/Fail signals are low true and indicate the Math
reading to be output.The signals are active low for approximately 2ms (100sec) for each reading
taken.

Table 5-1

USB connector pin out and designations

Contact number Signal name Typical wiring a

1 VBUS Red Floating
2 D- White Limit test pass
3 D+ Green Limit test fail
4 GND Black Ground

To enable/disable the Pass/Fail o

There are two procedures you can use to enable or disa

utput function:

SCPI commands (Standard Commands for

Pass/Fail Limit Test result for the next

ssignmen

ble the Pass/Fail output function:

t Description

1. Press the MENU key
ENTER

2. Next, use the left and right arrow keys to select USB, then press ENTER.

3. Use the left and right arrow keys to select ENABLE or DISABLE, then press ENTER.

Procedure: MENU INTERFACE USB ENABLE/DISABLE

1. Press the CONFIG+SHIFT+RAT
OUTPUT, and press ENTER.

2. Use the left and right arrow keys to select ENABLE or DISABLE, then press ENTER.

Procedure: CONFIG+SHIFT+RATIO OUTPUT ENABLE/DISABLE

NOTE You cannot use the USB interface for remote control if you want to enable the Pass/Fail

signal output. Disconnect the USB cable from your multimeter to eliminate abnormal
output of the Pass/Fail signal.

, then use the PREV and NEXT keys to select INTERFACE, and press

or

IO keys, then use the left and right arrow keys to select

Setting up the remote interface

You can use KI-TOOL, 2100 Excel Add-in, and 2100 Word Add-in programs developed by Keithley
Instruments to remotely control and configure the Model 2100 multimeter through the USB
interface.

5-2 Return to Section Topics 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007

Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual Section 5: Remote Interface Operations

To install the software:

NOTE You must have one of the following items installed on the remote interface in order to

obtain the proper VISA layer:

• Keithley I/O Layer 5.0 or greater

• N

• Agilent I/O Library Suite 14.2 or greater

I-VISA 3.1 or greater

(the Keithley I/O Layer 5.0 is included on the CD-ROM that came with your Model 2100)

1. On the CD-ROM that came with your Model 2100, double-click the 2100.ex
software installation.

2. Accept all defaults. Select Next.

3. Select Install.

4. Connect the USB cable between the Model 2100 and the USB port on the remote computer.

5. The "Found New Hardware Wizard" will launch, and you will see a dialogue box asking,
"Can Windows connect to Windows Update to search for software?" Select No, then Next.

6. "USB Test and Measurement device" will appear on the computer screen; select Next, then
Finish.

7. Icons for KI-TOOL, 2100 Excel Add-in, and 2100 Word Add-in will display on the desktop.
Double-click any of these to control or configure the Model 2100.

.

e file to start the

Remote interface commands

You can program the multimeter to take measurements using SCPI commands (after appropriately
setting up the USB remote interface).

The following conventions are used in SCPI command syntax:

• Triangle brackets (<>) in

• The square brackets ([ ]) indic

• Braces ({}) enclo

• A vertical bar (|) sep

se the parameter choices for a given command string.

dicate that you must specify a value for the enclosed parameter.

ate that the parameter is optional and can be omitted.

arates several choices for a parameter.

Common commands

MEASure?

Definition

Although it does not offer much flexibility,
program the multimeter for measurements. You can select the measurement function, range, and
resolution; then the multimeter automatically sets the other parameters for you, makes the
measurement, and sends the results to the output buffer.

Commands: MEASure:

VOLTage:DC? {<range>|MIN|MAX|DEF},{<resolution>|MIN|MAX|DEF}
VOLTage:DC:RATio? {<range>|MIN|MAX|DEF },{<resolution>|MIN|MAX|DEF}
VOLTage:AC? {<range>|MIN|MAX|DEF},{<resolution>|MIN|MAX|DEF}
CURRent:DC? {<range>|MIN|MAX|DEF},{<resolution>|MIN|MAX|DEF}
CURRent:AC? {<range>|MIN|MAX|DEF},{<resolution>|MIN|MAX|DEF}
RESistance? {<range>|MIN|MAX|DEF},{<resolution>|MIN|MAX|DEF}

2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007 Return to Section Topics 5-3

using the MEASure? command is the simplest way to

Section 5: Remote Interface Operations Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual

FRESistance? {<range>|MIN|MAX|DEF},{<resolution>|MIN|MAX|DEF}
FREQuency? {<range>|MIN|MAX|DEF},{<resolution>|MIN|MAX|DEF}
PERiod? {<range>|MIN|MAX|DEF},{<resolution>|MIN|MAX|DEF}
CONTinuity?
DIODe?
TEMPerature?

CONFigure:

Definition

The CONFigure command offers a little more flex

ibility than the MEASure? command. The
multimeter sets the parameters for the requested function, range and resolution, but does not
make the measurements. You have an option to change the configuration. To initiate the
measurement, use the INITiate or READ? command.

Commands: CONFigure:

VOLTage:DC {<range>|MIN|MAX|DEF},{<resolution>|MIN|MAX|DEF}
VOLTage:DC:RATio {<range>|MIN|MAX|DEF },{<resolution>|MIN|MAX|DEF}
VOLTage:AC {<range>|MIN|MAX|DEF},{<resolution>|MIN|MAX|DEF}
CURRent:DC {<range>|MIN|MAX|DEF},{<resolution>|MIN|MAX|DEF}
CURRent:AC {<range>|MIN|MAX|DEF},{<resolution>|MIN|MAX|DEF}
RESistance {<range>|MIN|MAX|DEF},{<resolution>|MIN|MAX|DEF}
FRESistance {<range>|MIN|MAX|DEF},{<resolution>|MIN|MAX|DEF}
FREQuency {<range>|MIN|MAX|DEF},{<resolution>|MIN|MAX|DEF}
PERiod {<range>|MIN|MAX|DEF},{<resolution>|MIN|MAX|DEF}
CONTinuity
DIODe
TEMPerature

CONFigure?

Definition

Query the selected function.

READ?

The READ? command changes the state of the trigger system from "idle" to "wait-for-trigger."
When the specified trigger condition requirements are met after the multimeter receives the
READ? command, the measurement will be initiated. The results are sent to the output buffer right
away. You must enter the reading data into your bus controller or the multimeter will stop making
measurements when the output buffer fills. Readings are not stored in the multimeter's internal
memory when using the READ? command.

? com

Using the READ

mand has a similar effect as using the INITiate command followed

immediately by the FETCh? command, except readings are not buffered internally.

INITiate and FETCh?

Definition

These two commands provide the lowest level of control
retrieval, but offer the most flexibility. After you have configured the multimeter, use INITiate to
change the state of the triggering system from the "idle" to "wait-for-trigger." The multimeter will
start the measurements when the specified trigger condition requirements are met (after it receives
the INITiate command). The results are sent to the internal memory and stored until you are ready
to read them.

5-4 Return to Section Topics 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007

of measurement triggering and reading

Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual Section 5: Remote Interface Operations

The FETCh? command sends the data in the multimeter's internal memory to the output buffer,
where you can read them into your bus controller.

SENSe

Definition

The SENSe subsystem is

used to configure and control the measurement functions.

NOTE Default parameters are shown in bold italic.

Commands: [SENSe:]

FUNCtion "VOLTage:DC"
FUNCtion "VOLTage:DC:RATio"
FUNCtion "VOLTage:AC"
FUNCtion "CURRent:DC"
FUNCtion "CURRent:AC"
FUNCtion "RESistance" (2-wire Ω)
FUNCtion "FRESistance" (4-wire Ω)
FUNCtion "FREQuency"
FUNCtion "PERiod"
FUNCtion "CONTinuity"
FUNCtion "DIODe"
FUNCtion "TEMPerature"
FUNCtion?

[SENSe:]

VOLTage:DC:RANGe {<range>|MINimum|MAXimum}
VOLTage:DC:RANGe? [MINimum|MAXimum]
VOLTage:AC:RANGe {<range>|MINimum|MAXimum}
VOLTage:AC:RANGe? [MINimum|MAXimum]
CURRent:DC:RANGe {<range>|MINimum|MAXimum}
CURRent:DC:RANGe? [MINimum|MAXimum]
CURRent:AC:RANGe {<range>|MINimum|MAXimum}
CURRent:AC:RANGe? [MINimum|MAXimum]
RESistance:RANGe {<range>|MINimum|MAXimum}
RESistance:RANGe? [MINimum|MAXimum]
FRESistance:RANGe {<range>|MINimum|MAXimum}
FRESistance:RANGe? [MINimum|MAXimum]
FREQuency:VOLTage:RANGe {<range>|MINimum|MAXimum}
FREQuency:VOLTage:RANGe? [MINimum|MAXimum]
PERiod:VOLTage:RANGe {<range>|MINimum|MAXimum}
PERiod:VOLTage:RANGe? [MINimum|MAXimum]

[SENSe:]

VOLTage:DC:RANGe:AUTO {OFF|ON}
VOLTage:DC:RANGe:AUTO?
VOLTage:AC:RANGe:AUTO {OFF|ON}
VOLTage:AC:RANGe:AUTO?
CURRent:DC:RANGe:AUTO {OFF|ON}
CURRent:DC:RANGeAUTO?
CURRent:AC:RANGe:AUTO {OFF|ON}
CURRent:AC:RANGe:AUTO?
RESistance:RANGe:AUTO {OFF|ON}
RESistance:RANGe:AUTO?
FRESistance:RANGe:AUTO {OFF|ON}
FRESistance:RANGe:AUTO?
FREQuency:VOLTage:RANGe:AUTO {OFF|ON}

2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007 Return to Section Topics 5-5

Section 5: Remote Interface Operations Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual

FREQuency:VOLTage:RANGe:AUTO?
PERiod:VOLTage:RANGe:AUTO {OFF|ON}
PERiod:VOLTage:RANGe:AUTO?

[SENSe:]

VOLTage:DC:RESolution {<resolution>|MINimum|MAXimum}
VOLTage:DC:RESolution? [MINimum|MAXimum]
VOLTage:AC:RESolution {<resolution>|MINimum|MAXimum}
VOLTage:AC:RESolution? [MINimum|MAXimum]
CURRent:DC:RESolution {<resolution>|MINimum|MAXimum}
CURRent:DC:RESolution? [MINimum|MAXimum]
CURRent:AC:RESolution {<resolution>|MINimum|MAXimum}
CURRent:AC:RESolution? [MINimum|MAXimum]
RESistance:RESolution {<resolution>|MINimum|MAXimum}
RESistance:RESolution? [MINimum|MAXimum]
FRESistance:RESolution {<resolution>|MINimum|MAXimum}
FRESistance:RESolution? [MINimum|MAXimum]

[SENSe:]

TEMPerature:RTD:TYPE {PT100|D100|F100|PT385|PT3916|USER|SPRTD}
TEMPerature:RTD:TYPE?
TEMPerature:RTD:RZERo {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum}
TEMPerature:RTD:RZERo? {MINimum|MAXimum}
TEMPerature:RTD:ALPHa {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum}
TEMPerature:RTD:ALPHa? {MINimum|MAXimum}
TEMPerature:RTD:BETA {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum}
TEMPerature:RTD:BETA? {MINimum|MAXimum}
TEMPerature:RTD:DELTa {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum}
TEMPerature:RTD:DELTa? {MINimum|MAXimum}
TEMPerature:SPRTD:RZERo {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum}
TEMPerature:SPRTD:RZERo? {MINimum|MAXimum}
TEMPerature:SPRTD:A4 {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum}
TEMPerature:SPRTD:A4? {MINimum|MAXimum}
TEMPerature:SPRTD:B4 {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum}
TEMPerature:SPRTD:B4? {MINimum|MAXimum}
TEMPerature:SPRTD:AX {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum}
TEMPerature:SPRTD:AX? {MINimum|MAXimum}
TEMPerature:SPRTD:BX {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum}
TEMPerature:SPRTD:BX? {MINimum|MAXimum}
TEMPerature:SPRTD:CX {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum}
TEMPerature:SPRTD:CX? {MINimum|MAXimum}
TEMPerature:SPRTD:DX {<value>|MINimum|MAXimum}
TEMPerature:SPRTD:DX? {MINimum|MAXimum}

[SENSe:]

UNIT {Cel|Far|K}
UNIT?

[SENSe:]

VOLTage:DC:NPLCycles {0.02|0.1|1|10|MINimum|MAXimum}
VOLTage:DC:NPLCycles? [MINimum|MAXimum]
CURRent:DC:NPLCycles {0.02|0.1|1|10|MINimum|MAXimum}
CURRent:DC:NPLCycles? [MINimum|MAXimum]
RESistance:NPLCycles {0.02|0.1|1|10|MINimum|MAXimum}
RESistance:NPLCycles? [MINimum|MAXimum]
FRESistance:NPLCycles {0.02|0.1|1|10|MINimum|MAXimum}
FRESistance:NPLCycles? [MINimum|MAXimum]

5-6 Return to Section Topics 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007