Keysight 34970A, 34972A Technical Overview

Keysight 34970A

Data Acquisition/Switch Unit Family

34970A
34972A

Technical Overview

02 | Keysight | 34970A Data Acquisition/Switch Unit Family - Technical Overview

At a fraction of the cost of other standalone data acquisition
systems

– 3-slot mainframe with built-in 6½ digit DMM and
– 8 optional switch and control plug-in modules
– Measures and converts 11 different input signals: temperature with thermocouples, RTDs and

thermistors; dc/ac volts; 2- and 4-wire resistance; frequency and period; dc/ac current
– IO options for easy connectivity to your PC:
– 34970A: GPIB, RS-232
– 34972A: LAN, USB
– Graphical Web interface for point and click monitor and control (34972A)
– USB flash drive support to copy/log data in standalone applications (34972A)
– Includes BenchLink Data Logger Software to configure and control tests, display results and

collect data for further analysis

Table of Contents

Features �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������03

More Power and Flexibility than You Ever Imagined You Could Afford ������������������������������������������������������ 06

The Keysight 34970A/34972A Offers Unequaled Versatility for Your Data Acquisition Applications ������ 07
A powerful, flexible data acquisition system for automated test ����������������������������������������������������������10

ATE feature checklist ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 11
Low-cost, high-quality switching for automated test ��������������������������������������������������������������������������� 12
Customize your Keysight 34970A/34972A with plug-in modules ��������������������������������������������������������13
34970A and 34972A Keysight modules-at-a-glance selection guide ��������������������������������������������������13
Keysight quality ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 14
Spec interpretation guide �����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������15
34970A/34972A accuracy specifications ±(% of reading + % of range)[1] �������������������������������������������16
Single channel reading rates to I/O or internal memory ������������������������������������������������������������������������18
System specifications �����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������19
Modules specifications ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������20
Multiplexer selection guide ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������21

34901A ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������21
34902A ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������22
34908A ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������22
34903A �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������23
34904A �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������23
34905A 50 Ω/34906A 75 Ω �����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������24
34907A ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������25

Rack mounting and dimensions ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������26

Ordering Information �����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������27

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03 | Keysight | 34970A Data Acquisition/Switch Unit Family - Technical Overview

Features

Price and performance beyond compare

Go ahead and compare the Keysight Technologies, Inc�
34970A and 34972A Data Acquisition/Switch Units with other
data acquisition systems currently available� You’ll find it hard to
come up with a system that offers the powerful measurement
performance, flexibility, connectivity options and ease of use of
the 34970A/34972A—even in systems costing three to five times
as much�

What can you expect from a data acquisition
system that’s this affordable?
Measurements you can trust

We took the measurement engine from our best-selling benchtop
DMM and embedded it inside a 3-slot mainframe� You get
the benefit of proven Keysight measurement performance,
universal inputs with built-in signal conditioning, and modular
flexibility, all in a low-cost, compact data acquisition package�
The 34970A/34972A features 6½ digits (22 bits) of resolution,
0�004% basic dcV accuracy, and ultra-low reading noise� Combine
that with scan rates of up to 250 channels/sec, and you’ve got the
speed and accuracy you need to get the job done right the first
time�

Built-in signal conditioning to get your job done

Whether you need to measure temperature, ac/dc volts, resis­tance, frequency, or current, the 34970A/34972A can handle it�

The internal autoranging DMM directly measures 11 different
functions, eliminating the need for expensive external signal
conditioning� And our unique design allows complete per channel
configurability for maximum flexibility and quick, easy set up� It’s
like having an independent, high-performance DMM behind each
channel�

Standard connectivity to the PC

Whether you use GPIB, RS-232, LAN or USB interfaces, the
34970A/34972A family offers easy connection to the PC� The
34970A offers traditional GPIB and RS-232 interfaces� The
34972A has built-in Gigabit LAN and USB 2�0 so you can connect
to a modern PC without having to purchase any GPIB cards,
cables or converter boxes� With the standard LAN connections
you also get the added benefit of a graphical Web interface for
easy configuration of measurements and monitoring of results
using a standard Web browser�

Convenient data storage with USB flash drive

The 34972A also features a built-in USB memory port so that
you can use a USB flash drive to upload BenchLink Data Logger
configurations into the 34972A and collect data without being
connected to a PC� Data can be logged directly to the USB
flash drive, extending your instrument’s memory, or copied from
internal memory for transfer to a computer in another location�

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04 | Keysight | 34970A Data Acquisition/Switch Unit Family - Technical Overview

Easy to use graphical Web interface
(34972A only)

The built-in graphical Web interface provides easy access and
control of the instrument using a Java-enabled Web browser
such as Internet Explorer� Using this interface you can configure
measurements, define and execute scan lists, or monitor mea­surement results from anywhere on the network� Simply enter the
instrument host name or IP address into the browser URL and
gain access to the instrument’s capabilities with simple point and
click control right in your browser�

– Specify per channel measurement configuration
– Define and execute switch scans
– Open, close, or monitor switch positions
– Monitor measurement readings
– View and save data
– Send SCPI commands and view IO command log
– View error queue
– View instrument information like module configuration, relay

counts, firmware revisions, and more

Additionally, since the Web interface is built into the instrument,
you can access it on any operating system that supports a Web
browser without having to install any special software�

Password protection and LAN lock out are also provided
to limit access� The graphical Web interface makes it easy to
configure measurements, set up and execute scans or trouble­shoot your designs from anywhere on the network�

Also available

Start

34832A BenchLink Data Logger Pro adds limit checking and decision

The BenchLink Data
Logger Pro Software
adds limit checking and
decision making for
more complex
applications. Simply

Scan list A

(base)

Event

Events

identify the measurements
you want to acquire, define
limits and actions to
be performed, and then
initiate the process. Your
data is then collected,
evaluated and acted on
real-time.

Events

Scan list C

Events

Event

Free BenchLink Data Logger software saves you
time and money

Now you don’t have to spend your valuable time writing
or configuring software� Keysight BenchLink Data Logger 3
software gives you a familiar Microsoft Windows inter face for
test configuration and real-time data display and analysis�
Even better, the data logging application is included with every
standard Keysight 34970A/34972A�

• Control instruments

• Send notification(s)

• Stop scan

Scan list B

• Control instruments

• Send notification(s)

• Stop scan

Event

• Control instruments

• Send notification(s)

• Stop scan

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05 | Keysight | 34970A Data Acquisition/Switch Unit Family - Technical Overview

Unequaled ease of use

From the simplified configuration to the graphical Web interface
in the 34972A, we put in extra time and energy so you don’t have
to� Simple things like on-module screw-terminal connectors,
built-in thermocouple reference junctions, well-organized user
documentation full of examples and hints, and a standard Getting
Star ted kit that will have you making measurements in just a few
minutes all add up to increased productivity, whether you use the
instrument every day or only now and then�

Custom configurations that grow with you

Three module slots and eight switch/control modules allow you
to customize the 34970A/34972A to meet your unique require­ments� Buy only what you need—and add more modules later as
your application grows�

34970A and 34972A are compatible

The 34972A LXI Data Acquisition/Switch Unit is an LXI version
of the 34970A� It replaces the GPIB and RS-232 interfaces
with modern connectivity for a direct connection to your PC or
Laptop�

The 8 plug-in modules can be used with either unit—so all the
measurements and wiring are compatible� The 34972A can be
easily integrated into an existing test program with a simple
change to the instrument address� Since the 34972A code is a
superset of the 34970A code, once the instrument address is
changed, the test program will run as normal�

Example:

Change:
Set inst1�IO = ioMgr�Open(“GPIB0::9::INSTR”)

To:
Set inst1�IO = ioMgr�Open(“TCPIP0::156�140�77�230::inst0::
INSTR”)

34970A 34972A

Support 8 plug-in modules

LabView drivers

IVI-C, IVI-COM drivers

BenchLink Data Logger

Optional BenchLink Data Logger Pro

Graphical Web interface

Gigabit LAN

USB 2.0

USB memory port

GPIB

RS-232

● ●

● ●

● ●

● ●

● ●

●

●

●

●

●

●

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06 | Keysight | 34970A Data Acquisition/Switch Unit Family - Technical Overview

More Power and Flexibility than You Ever
Imagined You Could Afford

6½ digit (22-bit) internal
DMM measures 11 functions without
external signal conditioning

Monitor display
mode lets you
keep an eye on
tests in progress

Scaling function for
conver ting raw inputs
into user-defined units

HI/LO alarm limits on each input

channel, plus 4 TTL alarm outputs

Intuitive front panel with
task-oriented, self-guiding menus

34972A

50 k readings of non-volatile

memory holds data when

power is removed

Battery-backed real-time clock for pacing
scans and timestamping readings

– Offers up to 96 matrix

crosspoints or
120 single-ended
channels

– 8 switch and control

plug-in modules to
choose from

– Keysight BenchLink Data

Logger 3 Keysight VEE,
IVI-C, IVI-COM and
National Instruments
LabView drivers included

USB

USB memor y port to log/

transfer data to a USB flash drive

Built-in LAN and USB for instant connection to a PC

34970A

GPIB

34970A built-in GPIB and RS-232 interfaces

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07 | Keysight | 34970A Data Acquisition/Switch Unit Family - Technical Overview

The Keysight 34970A/34972A Offers Unequaled Versatility
for Your Data Acquisition Applications

In the past, you had to make a choice� On the one hand, you could
choose the simple operation and low cost of a data logger� On the
other hand, you had the flexibility and higher performance of a
modular data acquisition system� The Keysight 34970A/34972A
Data Acquisition/Switch Unit gives you the best of both worlds:
a simple user interface with low per-channel cost, modular
flexibility, standard connectivity and impressive measurement
performance�

Whether you’re an R&D engineer working on characterizing
your latest design, or a manufacturing engineer building a test
system or troubleshooting a process, the 34970A/34972A Data
Acquisition/Switch Unit offers the best combination of price and
measurement performance�

It’s a data logger

Configured with a 20-channel relay multiplexer, the 34970A /
34972A becomes a powerful, low-cost data logger for simple
characterization applications� What’s more, the 34972A with its
LAN and USB interfaces is ideal for easy set up and control for
data logging applications in remote locations� For more informa­tion on using the 34970A/34972A for data logging applications,
see page 8�

It’s a data acquisition front end

The 34970A/34972A is an automated test system with excellent
measurement performance—it’s got the accuracy, resolution, and
speed you need� See page 10 for application information�

It’s a switch system

Order the mainframe without the internal DMM and you’ve got an
even lower cost, high-quality signal routing solution� See page 12
for details�

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08 | Keysight | 34970A Data Acquisition/Switch Unit Family - Technical Overview

An easy-to-use data logger for monitoring and
characterization applications

Data loggers are used to monitor multiple signals (temperature,
voltage, etc�) over extended periods of time to identify irregu­larities� Example applications include environmental chamber
monitoring, component inspection, benchtop testing, process
troubleshooting, and temperature profiling�

The Keysight 34970A/34972A is easy to use for a multitude of
data logging and monitoring applications, either stand-alone or
with a computer� Its flexible, modular design makes it scalable
from 20 to 120 channels, and lets you add actuator, digital I/O,
and analog output channels for simple control� Its small size,
ruggedized features and USB memory port on the 34972A make
it perfect for portable

Simplify your data gathering with
Keysight BenchLink Data Logger 3 software

Do you want PC-based data logging capability, but don’t
want to spend hours programming? The BenchLink Data
Logger 3 software is the answer� This Windows-based
application is designed to make it a snap to use your PC
for gathering and analyzing measurements� Use it to set
up your test, acquire and archive measurement data, and
perform real-time display and analysis of the incoming
measurements�

applications� Use GPIB (IEEE 488) or RS-232 interfaces
in the 34970A for legacy systems or use the 34972A with
standard LAN and USB interfaces for simple connection
to the PC and support of remote applications� The 34972A can
be set up at remote locations and accessed through the Web
interface on a network connection or through
the USB port by copying instrument configurations and measure­ment data results to a USB flash drive�

Better measurements with fewer hassles

Tired of putting up with the mediocre measurement performance
you get with most data loggers or plug-in data acquisition
boards? The 34970A/34972A offers 6½ digits of resolution and
0�004% basic 1-year dcV accuracy�

A familiar spreadsheet environment makes it easy to
configure and control your tests� And a rich set of colorful
graphics provides many options for analyzing and display­ing your data—all with point-and-click ease� Set up multiple
graphics using strip charts, histograms, bar and scatter
charts, individual channel results, and more� And of course
you can use BenchLink Data Logger 3 to easily move data
to other applications for further analysis, or for inclusion in
your presentations and reports�

The BenchLink Data Logger software can run connected
to the computer, standalone in the instrument or even over
the network when using the LAN interface on the 34972A�

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09 | Keysight | 34970A Data Acquisition/Switch Unit Family - Technical Overview

And the 34970A/34972A measures and converts
11 different input signals:

– Temperature with thermocouples, RTDs, and thermistors
– dc and ac volts
– 2- and 4-wire resistance
– Frequency and period
– dc and ac current

What’s more, each channel is independently configurable� This
means you can configure channel 1—for dcV, channel 2 for a
K-type thermocouple, and channels 3 and 13 for a 4-wire RTD
measurement—all on the same module, all in a single scan� For
custom linear conversions, use the Mx+B scaling function on any
channel� You can even display a custom 3-character engineering
label like RPM or PSI to identify your measurement units�

Versatile alarms

Alarms are available on a per-channel basis as well� Enter a high
limit, a low limit, or both� The 34970A/34972A compares each
reading to its limits and flags any out-of-range measurements�
You can assign one of four TTL alarm outputs to any input channel
to trigger external alarm lights, sirens, or send a TTL pulse to your
control system, all without a PC connected�

Scanning made simple

The 34970A/34972A automatically builds a scan list that
includes all configured inputs (even digital inputs from
the Keysight 34907A multifunction module) in ascending
order by channel number� You can pace scans by setting the
34970A/34972A’s internal timer for automatic scanning at a
specific interval, by manually pressing a front-panel button, or by
sending a sof tware command or external TTL trigger pulse�

Monitor any input

A special display mode monitors a selected input channel,
continuously updating the display with new readings—even
during a scan� Or, when using the 34972A with built-in LAN, the
channels can be monitored over the network using the graphical
Web interface� It’s great for keeping an eye on a key input, or for
troubleshooting your system before a test�

Non-volatile memory and USB flash drive adds
convenience, portability

All readings are automatically time-stamped and stored in a
nonvolatile 50,000 reading memory—enough memory to hold
more than a week’s worth of data (20 channels scanned every
five minutes)� The nonvolatile memory holds your data even after
power is removed, so you can use the 34970A/34972A to collect
data at a remote location for later uploading to a PC� Or if you
need even more memory, the 34972A’s USB port can be used to
log data directly to a USB flash drive or to copy the data from the
reading memory without being connected to a computer�

Data logging feature checklist

– From 1 to 120 channels of analog input

– Measurements include dc volts, ac volts, thermo-

couple, thermistor and RTD temperature measure­ments, 2- and 4-wire Ohms, dc current, ac current,
frequency, and period

– 6½ digits (22 bits) of resolution with 0�004% basic

1-year dcV accuracy

– 50 k reading nonvolatile memory including

time-stamp

– Scaling and alarms available on each channel

– Full-featured front panel for stand-alone

configuration, troubleshooting, and data viewing

– BenchLink Data Logger 3 software for configura-tion

and data analysis

– Nonvolatile storage for five complete instrument

states

– Built-in LAN or USB interfaces to support remote

data logging applications (34972A only)

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10 | Keysight | 34970A Data Acquisition/Switch Unit Family - Technical Overview

A powerful, flexible data acquisition system for
automated test

The 34970A/34972A gives you the resolution, accuracy, repeat­ability, and speed you’ve come to expect from a Keysight data
acquisition system� It provides the measurement muscle you need,
along with signal routing and control capability, in a flexible,
modular format that can grow and change to match your varied
applications�

Powerful measurements

The internal 6½ digit DMM brings the power and performance
of a world-class stand-alone DMM to the 34970A/34972A, but
at a fraction of the cost and in a fraction of the space� It’s as
accurate as the best bench DMM available: 0�004% basic 1-year
dcV accuracy, 0�06% basic 1-year acV accuracy, and 0�01% basic
1-year resistance accuracy� Our patented Multi-slope III A-D
technology offers incredible linearity (2 ppm of reading +1 ppm
of range) along with 22 bits of real resolution� And since it is an
integrating A /D, it provides excellent noise rejection as well—a
nice change from noisy PC plug-ins and sampling A/Ds� No
more averaging lots of samples just to see the real data you
wanted� And if you need high scan rates, the 34970A/34972A is
capable of delivering fully converted measurements at speeds up
to 250 ch/s�

The input section of the DMM is optically isolated and shielded
from the 34970A/34972A’s earth-referenced circuitry and
computer interface, of fering up to 300 V of input isolation� This is
important for reducing ground loop and common mode voltage
errors associated with long wiring runs and floating measurement
sources�

Flexible functionality

The DMM is installed inside the chassis rather than in one of the
slots, leaving all three mainframe slots free for switch and control
modules� You can choose from eight different modules (see page

13) to get the precise functionality you need now—while giving
you flexibility for future expansion�

The internal DMM gives you the flexibility to measure 11 types of
inputs easily and inexpensively� The built-in signal conditioning
and conversion routines turn raw inputs directly into real informa­tion� Each measurement channel is independently configurable,
so you can set different measurement functions, scale factors and
alarm limits, even on adjacent channels� Advanced measurement
features such as offset compensation, variable integration time,
and delay are also selectable on a per-channel basis�

Get better measurements with built-in
signal conditioning

The Keysight 34970A/34972A architecture offers
advantages over other data acquisition solutions which
rely on external or plug-in signal conditioning modules for
handling functions other than dcV:

– Minimizes external wiring and the resultant potential

for noise and errors to enter your system

– Reduces hidden costs and overall system cost by

avoiding unnecessary cables, breakout boxes and
signal conditioning elements

– Simplifies your configuration—for faster, easier setup—

with fewer connections and components

– Takes the guesswork out of error analysis�

– Measurement accuracies are specified to include all

system-related errors

– Improves reliability, with fewer interconnects and

fewer parts that can fail

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11 | Keysight | 34970A Data Acquisition/Switch Unit Family - Technical Overview

Software drivers

Your months of test system software development time need not
go to waste� Software drivers that support (C, C#, Visual Basic,
Visual Studio), Keysight VEE and National Instruments LabView
are available for the 34970A/34972A to make integration into
your test system easy� Standard RS-232 and GPIB interfaces on
the 34970A or LAN and USB on the 34972A and SCPI program­ming language make integration even easier�

ATE feature

– 3-slot cardcage with 6½ digit (22 bit) internal DMM

0�004% basic 1-year dcV accuracy; 0�06% acV
accuracy

– Up to 120 single-ended measurements or 96 matrix

crosspoints in a 3½” high, half-rack instrument

– Eight switch and control modules include low-

frequency and RF multiplexers, matrix and actuation
switches, digital input and output, analog output, and
event recording

– Scan rates up to 250 ch/s

– GPIB and 115 kbaud RS-232 interfaces standard

(34970A)

– Graphical Web interface to speed up test development

and monitor tests remotely (34972A)

– Software drivers available to support Keysight VEE

– and National Instruments LabView

– Relay maintenance feature for system maintenance

checklist

Compact 60-channel data acquisition system

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12 | Keysight | 34970A Data Acquisition/Switch Unit Family - Technical Overview

Low-cost, high-quality switching

for

automated test

If you don’t need the built-in measurement capability of the
34970A/34972A, save money by ordering it without the DMM�
What you end up with is the lowest cost switch unit on the
market� It’s an ideal solution for routing test signals to and from
your DUT and assorted instruments, including external DMMs,
scopes, counters, and power supplies� Plus, you can add the
DMM later if your needs change�

The functionality you need

We put a lot of thought into defining and designing the modules
for the 34970A/34972A in order to cover a broad spectrum of
switching and signal routing requirements with fewer modules�
The result? Simplified ordering and easier configuration� And
while we were at it, we improved performance and density� The
34970A/34972A modules can switch from microvolts to 300
volts, dc to 2 GHz, and with densities as high as 120 single-ended
channels or 96 matrix crosspoints per frame� Plus, simple control
capabilities like analog outputs, open collector digital outputs,
and isolated Form-C relays for controlling higher-powered
devices are available�

Easy scanning

The 34970A/34972A can easily scan with external instruments�
It builds a scan list that includes all enabled low frequency
multiplexer inputs� Scans are controlled with the external channel
advance input, or with the front panel Step key�

Connect to the company network

With the 34972A’s LAN interface, the instrument is easily
connected to the company network to collect measurement data
to a central database, remotely access the instrument’s set up, or
monitor measurement data from anywhere on the network�

Low-cost switching system for automated testing

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13 | Keysight | 34970A Data Acquisition/Switch Unit Family - Technical Overview

Customize your Keysight 34970A/34972A with
plug-in modules

A complete selection of plug-in modules gives you high quality
measurement, switching, and control capabilities to choose
from� Modules include both low-frequency and RF multiplexers,
a matrix switch, a general-purpose switch, and a multifunction
module that includes digital input/output, analog output, and
totalizer capabilities� You can mix and match modules to get just
the functionality you need right now—then change or add more
channels later as your application grows�

Modules for the 34970A/34972A are designed to make your
testing easier, faster, and more reliable� Here’s how:

Higher throughput

Our unique architecture incorporates a high-performance
microprocessor on each module, off loading the mainframe
processor and minimizing backplane communications for faster
throughput�

More channels in less space

Surface mount construction and a highly integrated design
minimize the space required for relay drive and interface circuitry�
High density on-module connectors save both board and
connector space normally required by a terminal block� We use
the latest technology to squeeze the most out of the remaining
board space, giving you up to 40 single-ended channels in
roughly the same space used by many data acquisition system
terminal blocks�

Convenient connections

On-module screw-terminal connectors make wiring more
convenient� Built-in strain relief cable routing and cable tie
points keep your wiring secure and safe from accidental tugs and
pulls� An internal analog bus routes signals from any of the low
frequency multiplexers directly to the internal DMM, without the
need for external connections�

Use the char t below to help you pinpoint the modules that meet
your needs�

34970A and 34972A Keysight modules-at-a-glance selection guide

Model description Type Speed

(ch/sec)

34901A
20 ch Multiplexer
+ 2 current channels

34902A
16 ch Multiplexer

34903A
20 ch Actuator/GP Switch

34904A 4 x 8 Matrix 2-wire armature 120 300 V 1 A 10 MHz < 3 µV 23

34905A

Dual 4 ch RF Mux 50 Ω

34906A

Dual 4 ch RF Mux 75 Ω

34907A
Multifunction Module

34908A
40 ch Single-Ended Mux

[1] Up to 250 ch/sec to internal memory�
See scanning rates for measurement condition and rate on each instrument�

2-wire armature
(4-wire selectable)

2-wire reed
(4-wire selectable)

SPDT/form C 120 300 V 1 A 10 MHz < 3 µV 23

Common low
(unterminated)

Common low
(unterminated)

Two 8-bit digital I/O ports 42 V 400 mA Open drain 25

26-bit event counter 42 V 100 KHz Selectable input threshold

Two 16-bit analog outputs ±12 V 10 mA dc Max 40 mA total output per frame

1-wire armature
(common low)

60 300 V 1 A 10 MHz < 3 µV Built-in cold junction reference

250

60 42 V 0.7 A 2 GHz < 6 µV 1 GHz bandwidth through

60 42 V 0.7 A 2 GHz < 6 µV 1 GHz bandwidth through

60 300 V 1A 10 MHz < 3 µV Built-in cold junction reference

Max

Max

volts

amps

[1]

300 V 50 mA 10 MHz < 6 µV Built-in cold junction reference 21

Bandwidth Thermal

offset

Comments Page

2 additional current channels
(22 total)

BNC-to-SMB adapter cable

BNC-to-SMB adapter cable

No four-wire measurements

21

24

24

21

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14 | Keysight | 34970A Data Acquisition/Switch Unit Family - Technical Overview

Keysight quality

We know you can’t afford instrument downtime due to hardware
failures and unscheduled maintenance� That’s why our engineers
designed reliability into the 34970A/34972A: A rugged enclosure,
state-of-the-art surface mount construction throughout, reduced
parts counts, and rigorous and thorough testing on all aspects of
the product�

Take the guesswork out of relay maintenance

The 34970A/34972A uses our proprietary relay maintenance
system to help you to predict relay end-of-life and avoid costly
production line downtime� It automatically counts every individual
switch closure and stores it in nonvolatile memory on each
module� You can query the total number of cycles on any individ­ual channel so you can schedule maintenance and avoid erratic
end-of-life failures�

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15 | Keysight | 34970A Data Acquisition/Switch Unit Family - Technical Overview

Spec interpretation guide

The following pages list the technical specifications for the
Keysight 34970A/34972A Data Acquisition/Switch Unit and its
modules� The explanations and examples below are helpful in
understanding how to interpret these specifications:

– Measurement accuracy is specified as percent of reading plus

percent of range, where reading is the actual measured value
and range is the name of the scale (1 V, 10 V, etc�)—not the
full scale value (1�2 V, 12 V, etc�)�

– DMM measurement accuracies include all switching errors�

Switching errors are also listed separately in the module
specifications section� Temperature measurement accuracies
include ITS-90 conversion errors� The thermocouple
accuracies include the reference junction error as well�

– Accuracies are listed as either 24-hour, 90-day, or 1-year

specifications� This refers to the length of time since the
instrument’s last calibration� Use the specification that
matches your calibration cycle� The 24-hour specifications
are useful for determining short-term relative performance�

Example 1: Basic dcV accuracy

Calculate the accuracy of the following measurement:

9 V dc input
10 V dc range
1-year accuracy specifications
Normal operating temperature (18 - 28°C)

Example 2: Extreme operating temperature

When the 34970A/34972A is used outside of its 18 - 28°C
temperature range, there are additional temperature drift errors
to consider� Assume the same conditions in Example 1, but at a
35°C operating temperature�

The basic accuracy is again:
0�0035% of reading + 0�0005% of range = 365 µV�

Now, multiply the 10 V temperature coefficient from the following
page by the number of degrees outside of operating range for
additional error:
(0�0005% reading + 0�0001% range)
/°C x (35 - 28°C) =
(0�0005% reading + 0�0001% range)
/°C x 7°C =
0�0035% reading + 0�0007% range = 385 µV
Total error is then:
365 µV + 385 µV = 750 µV or 0.008%

Example 3: Thermocouple measurement accuracy

Calculating the total thermocouple reading error is easy with
the 34970A/34972A—just add the listed measurement accuracy
to the accuracy of your transducer� Switching, conversion, and
reference junction errors are already included in the measurement
specification�

For this example, assume a J-type thermocouple input reading 150°C�

From the following page, the 1-year accuracy is:
0�0035% of reading + 0�0005% of range

Which translates into:
(0�0035/100 x 9 V)+ (0�0005/100 x 10 V) = 365 µV

For a total accuracy of:

365 µV/9 V = 0.0041%

From the following page, total error is:
Thermocouple probe accuracy + 1�0°C
The probe vendor specifies accuracy of 1�1°C
or 0�4%, whichever is greater�

Total error is then:

1.0ºC + 1.1ºC = 2.1ºC total, or 1.4%

Example 4: acV accuracy

The acV function measures the true RMS value of the input
waveform, regardless of waveshape� Listed accuracies assume a
sinewave input� To adjust accuracies for non-sinusoids, use the
listed crest factor adder�

For this example, assume a ± 1 V square wave input with
50% duty cycle and a 1 kHz frequency�

Accuracy for 1 V, 1 kHz sinusoid is:
0�06% reading + 0�04% range
A 50% duty cycle squarewave has a crest factor of
Peak value / RMS value = 1 V / 1 V = 1

From crest factor table, add:

0�05% of reading

The total accuracy is:

0.11% of reading + 0.04% of range = 1.5 mV or 0.15%

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16 | Keysight | 34970A Data Acquisition/Switch Unit Family - Technical Overview

34970A/34972A accuracy specifications ±(% of reading + % of range)

[1]

Includes measurement error, switching error, and transducer conversion error

[2]

Range

[3]

Frequency, etc.

24 hour
23 ±1°C

90 Day
23 ±5°C

1 Year
23 ±5°C

DC voltage

100.0000 mV 0.0030 + 0.0035 0.0040 + 0.0040 0.0050 + 0.0040 0.0005 + 0.0005

1.000000 V 0.0020 + 0.0006 0.0030 + 0.0007 0.0040 + 0.0007 0.0005 + 0.0001

10.00000 V 0.0015 + 0.0004 0.0020 + 0.0005 0.0035 + 0.0005 0.0005 + 0.0001

100.0000 V 0.0020 + 0.0006 0.0035 + 0.0006 0.0045 + 0.0006 0.0005 + 0.0001

300.000 V 0.0020 + 0.0020 0.0035 + 0.0030 0.0045 + 0.0030 0.0005 + 0.0003

True RMS AC voltage

[4]

All ranges from 100.0000
mV to 100.0000 V

3 Hz–5 Hz 1.00 + 0.03 1.00 + 0.04 1.00 + 0.04 0.100 + 0.004
5 Hz–10 Hz 0.35 + 0.03 0.35 + 0.04 0.35 + 0.04 0.035 + 0.004
10 Hz–20 kHz 0.04 + 0.03 0.05 + 0.04 0.06 + 0.04 0.005 + 0.004
20 kHz–50 kHz 0.10 + 0.05 0.11 + 0.05 0.12 + 0.05 0.011 + 0.005
50 kHz–100 kHz 0.55 + 0.08 0.60 + 0.08 0.60 + 0.08 0.060 + 0.008
100 kHz–300 kHz

[5]

4.00 + 0.50 4.00 + 0.50 4.00 + 0.50 0.20 + 0.02

300.0000 V 3 Hz–5 Hz 1.00 + 0.05 1.00 + 0.08 1.00 + 0.08 0.100 + 0.008
5 Hz–10 Hz 0.35 + 0.05 0.35 + 0.08 0.35 + 0.08 0.035 + 0.008
10 Hz–20 kHz 0.04 + 0.05 0.05 + 0.08 0.06 + 0.08 0.005 + 0.008
20 kHz–50 kHz 0.10 + 0.10 0.11 + 0.12 0.12 + 0.12 0.011 + 0.012

Resistance

50 kHz–100 kHz 0.55 + 0.20 0.60 + 0.20 0.60 + 0.20 0.060 + 0.020
100 kHz–300 kHz

[6]

100.0000 Ω

1 mA current source

[5]

4.00 + 1.25 4.00 + 1.25 4.00 + 1.25 0.20 + 0.05

0.0030 + 0.0035 0.008 + 0.004 0.010 + 0.004 0.0006 + 0.0005

1.000000 kΩ 1 mA 0.0020 + 0.0006 0.008 + 0.001 0.010 + 0.001 0.0006 + 0.0001

10.00000 kΩ 100 µA 0.0020 + 0.0005 0.008 + 0.001 0.010 + 0.001 0.0006 + 0.0001

100.0000 kΩ 10 µA 0.0020 + 0.0005 0.008 + 0.001 0.010 + 0.001 0.0006 + 0.0001

1.000000 MΩ 5.0 µA 0.002 + 0.001 0.008 + 0.001 0.010 + 0.001 0.0010 + 0.0002

10.00000 MΩ 500 nA 0.015 + 0.001 0.020 + 0.001 0.040 + 0.001 0.0030 + 0.0004

100.0000 MΩ 500 nA || 10 MΩ 0.300 + 0.010 0.800 + 0.010 0.800 + 0.010 0.1500 + 0.0002

Frequency and period

[7]

100 mV to 300V

3 Hz–5 Hz 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.005
5 Hz–10 Hz 0.05 0.05 0.05 0.005
10 Hz–40 Hz 0.03 0.03 0.03 0.001
40 Hz–300 kHz 0.006 0.01 0.01 0.001

DC current (34901A only)

10.00000 mA <0.1 V burden 0.005 + 0.010 0.030 + 0.020 0.050 + 0.020 0.002+ 0.0020

100.0000 mA <0.6 V 0.010 + 0.004 0.030 + 0.005 0.050 + 0.005 0.002 + 0.0005

1.000000 A <2 V 0.050 + 0.006 0.080 + 0.010 0.100 + 0.010 0.005 + 0.0010

True RMS AC current (34901A only)

10.00000 mA

[4]

and

1.000000 A

100.0000 mA

[8]

3 Hz–5 Hz 1.00 + 0.5 1.00 + 0.5 1.00 + 0.5 0.100 + 0.06

3 Hz–5 Hz 1.00 + 0.04 1.00 + 0.04 1.00 + 0.04 0.100 + 0.006
5 Hz–10 Hz 0.30 + 0.04 0.30 + 0.04 0.30 + 0.04 0.035 + 0.006
10 Hz–5 kHz 0.10 + 0.04 0.10 + 0.04 0.10 + 0.04 0.015 + 0.006

5 Hz–10 Hz 0.30 + 0.5 0.30 + 0.5 0.30 + 0.5 0.035 + 0.06
10 Hz–5 kHz 0.10 + 0.5 0.10 + 0.5 0.10 + 0.5 0.015 + 0.06

Temperature Type 1-year accuracy

[10]

Thermocouple

B 1100 to 1820°C 1.2°C 400 to 1100°C 1.8 °C
E –150 to 1000°C 1. 0°C –200 to -150°C 1.5°C

[9]

Extended range 1-year accuracy

[9]

J –150 t o 120 0°C 1.0°C –210 to -150°C 1.2°C
K –100 to 1200°C 1.0°C –200 to -100°C 1.5°C
N –100 to 1300°C 1. 0°C –200 to -100°C 1.5°C
R 300 to 1760°C 1.2° C –50 to 300°C 1.8°C
S 400 to 1760°C 1.2°C –50 to 400°C 1.8°C
T –100 to 400°C 1.0°C –200 to -100°C 1.5°C

RTD R0 from 49 Ω to 2.1 kΩ –200 to 600°C 0.06°C 0.003°C
Thermistor 2.2 k, 5 k, 10 k –80 to 150°C 0.08°C 0.002°C

Temperature
coefficient
0 – 18°C, 28 - 55°C

Temp coefficient/ºC

0.03°C

[1] Specifications are for 1 hr warm-up and 6½ digits, Slow ac filter
[2] Relative to calibration standards
[3] 20% over range on all ranges except 30 0 Vdc and ac ranges and 1 Adc
and ac current ranges
[4] For sinewave input > 5% of range� For inputs from 1% to 5% of range
and < 50 kHz, add 0�1% of range additional error
[5] Typically 30% of reading error at 1 MHz, limited to 1 x 108 V Hz

[6] Specifications are for 4- wire ohms function or 2-wire ohms using scaling

to remove the offset. Without scaling, add 4 Ω additional error in 2-wire

Ohms function
[7] Input > 100 mV� For 10 mV to 100 mV inputs multiply % of reading error x 10
[8] Specified only for inputs >10 mA
[9] For total measurement accuracy, add temperature probe error
[10] Thermocouple specifications not guaranteed when 34907A module
is present� For < 1°C accuracy, a precision external reference is required�

17 | Keysight | 34970A Data Acquisition/Switch Unit Family - Technical Overview

Measurement characteristics

[7]

DC voltage

Measurement Method Continuously Integrating
Multi-slope III A-D converter
A/D linearity 0.0002% of reading + 0.0001 % of range
Input resistance

100 mV, 1 V, 10 V ranges Selectable 10 MΩ or > 10,000 MΩ
100 V, 300 V ranges 10 MΩ ±1%

Input bias current < 30 pA at 25°C
Input protection 300 V all ranges

True RMS AC voltage

Measurement method AC coupled True RMS — measures the AC
component of the input with up to 300 Vdc of
bias on any range
Crest factor Maximum of 5:1 at Full Scale
Additional crest factor
errors (non-sinewave) Crest Factor 1-2 0.05 % of reading
Crest Factor 2-3 0.15 % of reading
Crest Factor 3-4 0.30 % of reading
Crest Factor 4-5 0.40 % of reading
Input impedance 1 MΩ ±2% in parallel with 150 pF
Input protection 300 Vrms all ranges

Resistance
Measurement method Selectable 4-wire or 2-wire Ohms
Current source referenced to LO input

Offset compensation Selectable on 100 Ω, 1 kΩ, 10 kΩ ranges
Maximum lead resistance 10% of range per lead for 100 Ω and 1 kΩ
ranges. 1 kΩ on all other ranges

Input protection 300 V on all ranges

Frequency and period
Measurement method Reciprocal counting technique
Voltage ranges Same as AC Voltage function
Gate time 1s, 100 ms, or 10 ms
Measurement timeout Selectable 3 Hz, 20 Hz, 200 Hz LF limit

DC current
Shunt resistance 5Ω for 10 mA, 100 mA; 0.1 Ω for 1 A
Input protection 1 A 250 V fuse on 34901A module

True RMS AC current
Measurement method Direct coupled to the fuse and shunt.
AC coupled True RMS measurement
(measures the ac component only)
Shunt resistance 5 Ω for 10 mA; 0.1 Ω for 100 mA, 1 A
Input protection 1 A 250 V fuse on 34901A module

Thermocouple
Conversion ITS-90 software compensation
Reference junction type Internal, Fixed, or External

Open thermocouple check Selectable per channel. Open > 5 kΩ

Thermistor 44004, 44007, 44006 series

RTD ● = 0.00385 (DIN) and ● = 0.00391

Measurement noise rejection 60 (50) Hz

[1]

dc CMRR 140 dB
ac CMRR 70 dB

Integration time Normal mode rejection

200 plc/3.33s (4s) 110 dB
100 plc/1.67s (2s) 105 dB
20 plc/333 ms (400 ms) 100 dB
10 plc/167 ms (200 ms) 95 dB

[3]

[3]

[3]

[3]

[2]

2 plc/33.3 ms (40 ms) 90 dB
1 plc/16.7 ms (20 ms) 60 dB
< 1 plc 0 dB

Operating characteristics

Single channel measurement rates

Function Resolution

[4]

[5]

[8]

34970A/34972A

readings/sec

dcV, 2-wire resistance 6½ digits (10 plc) 6 (5)

5½ digits (1 plc) 54 (47)
4½ digits (0.02 plc) 500

Thermocouple 0.1 °C (10 plc) 6 (5)

0.1 °C (1 plc) 52 (47)
(0.02 plc) 280

RTD, thermistor 0.01 °C (10 plc) 6 (5)

0.1 °C (1 plc) 49 (47)
1 °C (0.02 plc) 200

acV 6½ Slow (3 Hz) 0.14

6½ Med (20 Hz) 1
6½ Fast (200 Hz) 8

[6]

6½

100

Frequency, period 6½ digits (1 s gate) 1

5½ digits (100 ms) 9
4½ digits (10 ms) 70

[1] For 1 KΩ unbalance in LO lead

[2] For power line frequency ±0�1%
[3] For power line frequency ±1% use 80 dB or ±3% use 60 dB
[4] Reading speeds for 60 Hz and (50 Hz) operation
[5] For fixed function and range, readings to memor y, scaling and alarms
off, A ZERO OFF, USB datalogging OFF
[6] Maximum limit with de fault settling delays defeated
[7] Isolation voltage (ch-ch, ch-earth) 300 Vdc, ac rms
[8] 6½ digits = 22 bits, 5½ digits = 18 bits, 4½ digits = 15 bits

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18 | Keysight | 34970A Data Acquisition/Switch Unit Family - Technical Overview

Single channel reading rates to I/O or internal memory

(See footnotes for conditions below) 34970A 34972A

into memory

readings/sec

to GPIB or RS232

readings/sec

to LAN, USB or

memory

readings/sec

Single channel ASCII readings 500 440 500
Single channel while changing scale

25 25 25
(eg MEAS dcV 10/MEAS dcV 1)
Single channel while changing function

12 12 12
(eg MEAS dcV/MEAS Ohms)

Scanning measurement rates to I/O or internal memory

(See footnotes for conditions below) 34970A 34972A

into memory

ch/sec

Scanning dcV or ohms channels

34901A/34908A 60 60 60
34902A 250 210 240
34902A into and out of memory (using INIT, FETCh) — 180 240
34902A with timestamp (using MEAS) — 150 240
34902A with scaling and alarms 220 190 220
34902A dcV and ohms on alternate channels 80 80 80

Scanning acV channels

(2)

34901A/34908A 50 50 50
34902A 100 90 100

Scanning temperature – thermistor or TC channels

34901A/34908A 50 50 50
34902A 160 150 15 0

Scanning digital in/totalizer channels

34907A Digital Input 275 250 275
34907A Totalizer 240 210 240

to GPIB or RS232

ch/sec

to LAN, USB or

memory

ch/sec

Data out of memory

(3)(4)

(FETCh of 50K readings)

(See footnotes for conditions below) 34970A 34972A

Single channel

[1] [ 2]

over GPIB

readings/sec

over RS232

readings/sec

over USB

readings/sec

over LAN or

memory

readings/sec

Readings 800 600 55 K 120 K
Readings with timestamp 450 320 35 K 60 K
Readings with all format options ON 310 230 25 K 50 K

[1] Speeds are for 4 1/2 digits, delay 0, display off, USB data logging off, autozero off, auto-ranging off unless otherwise noted� Use MEAS
command for best I/O performance� RS232 at 115 Kbaud�
[2] Maximum, with default delays defeated
[3] Assumes relative time format (time since start of scan)
[4] Typical rates assuming lightly loaded PC and limited other traffic on I/Os� L AN rates assume use of socket connection; VXI11 will be less�
[5] For fixed function and range, readings to memory, scaling/alarms/autozero of f

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19 | Keysight | 34970A Data Acquisition/Switch Unit Family - Technical Overview

System specifications

Scanning inputs

Analog 34901A, 34902A, and 34908A
multiplexer channels
Digital 34907A digital in and totalize
Scan list Scans channels in ascending order

Scan triggering

Source Interval, external, button press, software, or on
monitor channel alarm
Scan count 1 to 50,000 or continuous

Scan interval 0 to 99 hours; 1 ms step size
Channel delay 0 to 60 seconds per channel; 1 ms step size

External trig delay < 300 µs. With monitor on < 200 ms
External trig jitter < 2 ms

Alarms

Analog inputs Hi, Lo, or Hi + Lo evaluated each scan
Digital inputs 34907A digital in maskable pattern match or
state change
34907A totalize: Hi limit only
Monitor channel Alarm evaluated each reading
Alarm outputs 4 TTL compatible
Selectable TTL logic Hi or Lo on fail
Latency 5 ms (typical)

Memory

Battery 34970A, 4-year typical life
34972A User replaceable battery.
Recommend replacement once a year
during CAL.
Readings 50,000 internal readings with timestp
Readable during scan
States 5 instrument states with user label
Alarm queue Up to 20 events with channel number,
reading, and timestamp
USB flash drive Support FAT or FAT 32 format

System features

Per-channel math Individual Mx + B scaling and
Min/Max/Average calculated real time
Power fail recovery Resumes scanning automatically
Relay maintenance Counts each relay closure and stores on module
User resettable
Real-time clock Battery-backed, 4-year typical life

General specifications

Power supply 100 V/120 V/220 V/240 V ±10%
Power line frequency 45 Hz to 66 Hz automatically sensed
Power consumption 12 W (25 VA peak)
Operating environment Full accuracy for 0 to 55°C
Full accuracy to 80% R.H. at 40°C
Storage environment –40 to 70°C

[1]

Weight Net: 3.6 kg (8.0 lbs)
Safety Conforms to CSA, UL-1244, IEC 1010 Cat I
RFI and ESD CISPR 11, IEC 801-2/3/5/6

[1]

,

[1]

Software

Keysight 34825A BenchLink Data Logger 3

(included with option DMM)

System requirements

Operating system Windows Vista, XP SP2, 2000 SP4 (does not
support any home editions), Adobe Acrobat
Reader V5.0 or higher (to view documentation)
Microsoft Internet Explorer V6.0 or higher
(required when using Windows NT)
Controller Recommend Pentium 4, 800 MHz or greater,
Min: Pentium III, 500 MHz
RAM Recommend 256 MB or greater, Min 128 MB
Disk space Recommend 200 MB, Min 100 MB
Display Recommend 1024 x 768 resolution, 256 colors

Computer interfaces
34970A

GPIB Keysight and National Instruments PCI-GPIB
RS-232 (Serial port) PC COM 1-4
34972A
LAN 10/100/1000 BaseT
USB USB 2.0

Keysight BenchLink features

Configuration Spreadsheet-like channel configurations page.
Upload and Download instrument configurations.
Computed channels using ± */, dB, dBm, dBV,
x2, √x and full, ½, or ¼ bridge strain
Graphical displays Real-time and historical data displays
Add, delete, size, and configure real time
Strip chart with markers and alarm indication,
bar and scatter charts, Histogram with statistics,
Bar meter, and Data table
Graphical controls Sliders, switches, buttons, and LED lights
Alarm/limit testing Start/Stop scanning on alarm condition
Control 34903A relay state or 34907A digital
output on alarm
Data Real time streamed (saved) to disk
Automatically export data and
configurations
Copy data or graphics to windows clipboard
Export your selected data to .CVS, .XML,
or .TXT formats
Event logging Automatic entry of alarms and errors

Instrument driver support for programming languages

IVI-C or IVI-COM driver Compatible with Windows 7, Vista SP1,
XP SP2 (32-bit) IO Libraries 14.1 or greater.
Supports Keysight VEE, Visual Basic, C/C#,
Visual Studio, National Instruments
LabWindows CVI and LabVIEW
LabVIEW driver (VI) LabVIEW 7.0 or greater
Controller Recommend 800 MHz or greater,
minimum 600 MHz.

[2]

[3]

[1] Storage at temperatures above 40°C will decrease bat tery life
[2] Software provided on CD-ROM
[3] Interface and driver must be purchased and installed separately
[4] Requires VISA command librar y for IEEE-4 88

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20 | Keysight | 34970A Data Acquisition/Switch Unit Family - Technical Overview

Modules specifications

connections are accessible only through the 34901A, 34902A,
and 34908A low-frequency multiplexers�

The Keysight 34970A/34972A accuracy specifications already
include the switching offset and reference junction errors shown
below� These errors are listed separately for determining system
error with external measurement devices�

On-module screw terminals accept wire sizes from
16 gage to 22 gage� Twenty-gage wire is recommended for
high channel count applications� The 34905A and 34906A RF

Multiplexers use SMB connectors� A standard set of (10) BNC­Up to three modules, in any combination, can be inserted
into a single mainframe� The 34970A/34972A’s internal DMM

to-SMB adapter cables is provided with each

RF module for convenient BNC connections�

Multiplexer Actuator Matrix RF multiplexer Multifunction

34901A 34902A

[1]

34908A 34903A 34904A 34905A 34906A 34 907A

General

Number of channels 20 + 2 16 40 20 4 x 8 Dual 1 x 4 See page 25

Connects to internal DMM
Scanning speed

2/4 wire 2/4 wire 1 wire SPDT 2 wire 50 Ω 75 Ω

● ● ●

60 ch/s 250 ch/s

[1]

60 ch/s

for module

specifications

Open/close speed 120/s 120/s 70/s 120/s 120/s 60/s

Input

Voltage (dc , ac rms)

[2]

300 V 300 V 300 V 300 V 300 V 42 V
Current (dc , ac rms) 1 A 50 mA 1 A 1 A 1 A 0.7 A
Power (W , VA)

50 W

2 W 50 W

50 W

50 W 20 W

DC characteristics

Offset voltage
Initial closed channel R

[3]

[3]

< 3 uV < 6 uV < 3 uV < 3 uV < 3 uV < 6 uV

< 1 Ω < 1 Ω < 1 Ω < 0.2 Ω < 1 Ω < 0.5 Ω

Isolation ch-ch, ch-earth > 10 GΩ > 10 GΩ > 10 GΩ > 10 GΩ > 10 GΩ > 1 GΩ

AC characteristics

Bandwidth

[4]

10 MHz 10 MHz 10 MHz 10 MHz 10 MHz 2 GHz

[5]

2 GHz

[5]

Insertion loss (dB) 10 MHz — — — — — – 0.1 – 0.1

100 MHz — — — — — –0.4 –0.4

500 MHz — — — — — –0.6 –0.5

1 GHz — — — — — –1 –1

1.5 GHz — — — — — –1.2 –1.5
2 GHz — — — — — -3 -2

SWR 0-9.99 MHz — — — — — 1.02 1.02

10-99.99 MHz — — — — — 1.05 1.05

100-499.99 MHz — — — — — 1.20 1.25
500-999.99 MHz — — — — — 1.20 1.40

1-1.49 9 GH z — — — — — 1. 30 1.40

ch-ch cross talk (dB)

[4]

10 MHz –45 –45 –18

[6]

–45 –33 –100 –85

1.5-2 GHz — — — — — 1.40 2.00

100 MHz — — — — — –85 –75
500 MHz — — — — — –65 –65

1 GHz — — — — — –55 –50

1.5 GHz — — — — — –45 –40
2 GHz — — — — — –35 –35

Risetime < 300 ps
Signal delay < 3 ns

Capacitance HI - LO < 50 pF < 50 pF < 50 pF < 10 pF < 50 pF < 20 pF

LO - Earth < 80 pF < 80 pF < 80 pF < 80 pF < 80 pF —

Volt-Hertz limit 10

8

10

8

10

8

10

8

10

8

10

10

Other

T/C cold junction accuracy

[3]

(typical) 0.8°C 0.8°C 0.8°C

[8]

Switch life No load (typical) 100 M 100 M 10 0 M 100 M 100 M 5 M 5 M

Rated load (typical)

[7]

100 k 100 k 100 k 100 k 100 k 100 k 10 0 k

Temperature Operating all cards: 0 to 55°C

Storage all cards: –20 to 70°C

Humidity (non-condensing) all cards: 40°C to 80% RH

[1] Not recommended for connection to ac line without external
transient suppression� Up to 250 ch/s to internal memory�
See scanning rates for measurement condition and rate on each
instrument�
[2] Channel-to-channel or channel-to-earth
[3] Errors included in DMM measurement accuracy specifications

[4] 50 Ω source, 50 Ω load

[5] Bandwidth direct to card SMB connectors
[6] Isolation within channel 1 to 20 or 21 to 40 banks is –40 dB
[7] Applies to resistive loads only
[8] Thermocouple measurements not recommended with 34908A
module due to common lo configuration

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21 | Keysight | 34970A Data Acquisition/Switch Unit Family - Technical Overview

Backplane switches

(Current)

Channel switches

Multiplexer selection guide

Choose between the broad functionality of the 34901A, the
high speed scanning of the 34902A, or the single-ended
density of the 34908A� These three modules are the only
way to connect to the 34970A /34972A internal DMM� They
can be used to scan with external instruments as well�

All multiplexer modules employ break-before-make
scanning, ensuring only one closed channel (or channel
pair) at a time� Multiple channel closures are allowed on
the 34901A and 34902A modules when not configured for
scanning�

The 34908A does not allow multiple channel closures at
any time�

34901A

20-Channel General Purpose Multiplexer

– 60 ch/s scanning
– Two- and four-wire scanning
– Built-in thermocouple reference

junction

– 300 V switching

The Keysight 34901A is the most
versatile multiplexer for general
purpose scanning� It combines dense,
multifunction switching with 60-channel/
second scan rates to address a broad
spectrum of data acquisition applications�

Two- and four-wire channels can be mixed
on the same module� Two additional fused
inputs (22 channels total) route up to 1 A
of current to the internal DMM, allowing
ac and dc current measurements without
the need for external shunt resistors�

34901A 34902A 34908A
Number of channels 20 + 2 16 40
Max scan speed 60 ch/s 250 ch/s 60 ch/s
Number of contacts 2 or 4 2 or 4 1
Temperature

Thermocouple

2-wire RTD
4-wire RTD

Thermistor
dc Volts
ac Volts
2-wire Ohms
4-wire Ohms
Frequency
Period
dc current
ac current

H
L

● ● ●

● ● ●

● ●

● ● ●

● ● ●

● ● ●

● ● ●

● ●

● ● ●

● ● ●

●

●

H

01

L

Internal
DMM input

T

Reference
junction
sensor

H
L

Bank switch

H

10

L

H

Com

L

H

Com

L

(4W sense)

H

11

L

H

20

L

Internal
DMM input
(4W sense)

Shunt switches

Fuse

I

21

L

I
L

Internal
DMM input
(Current)

Current
channels

Fuse

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I

22

L

I

Com

L

22 | Keysight | 34970A Data Acquisition/Switch Unit Family - Technical Overview

Backplane switches

(4W sense)

Channel switches

Channel switches

sensor

34902A

16-Channel High-Speed Multiplexer

– Scanning up to 250 ch/s
– Two- and four-wire scanning
– Built-in thermocouple reference junction

The Keysight 34902A employs reed relays to
achieve scan rates up to 250 channels per second�
Use this module for high-throughput automated
test applications as well as high-speed data
logging and monitoring tasks�

Sixteen two-wire inputs switch up to 300 V�
Two- and four-wire channels may be mixed on the
same module� User provided shunt resistors are
required for current measurements�

34908A

40-Channel Single-Ended Multiplexer

– 60 ch/s scanning
– Single-wire switching for common low

applications

– Built-in thermocouple reference junction

H
L

Internal
DMM input

T

Reference
junction
sensor

H
L

Internal

Bank switch

H

01

L

H

08

L

H

Com

L

H

Com

L

(4W sense)

H

09

L

H

16

L

DMM input

Note: Not recommended for connection to ac line without
external transient suppression.

Use the Keysight 34908A for the greatest density in
common low applications, such as battery test,
component characterization, and benchtop testing�

Each module switches 40 one-wire inputs� All two­wire internal measurements except current are
supported� The module low connection is isolated
from ear th and can float up to 300 V�

Backplane

switch

H

L

Bank switch

Internal
DMM input

T

Reference
junction

Note: Thermocouples must be electrically
isolated from each other to avoid current
loops and subsequent measurement errors.

H

01

H

20

H

Com

L

Com

H

21

H

40

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23 | Keysight | 34970A Data Acquisition/Switch Unit Family - Technical Overview

(Row 3, Column 1)

34903A

20-Channel Actuator/General Purpose Switch

– SPDT (Form C) latching relays
– 300 V, 1 A actuation and control

This general purpose switch module has 20 independent
single-pole, double-throw (SPDT) relays� Use it to cycle power
to products under test, control indicator and status lights, and
to actuate external power relays and solenoids� Combine it with
matrix and multiplexer modules to build custom switch systems�
Its 300 V, 1 A contacts can handle up to 50 W, enough for many
power line switching applications�

34904A

4x8 Two-wire Matrix Switch

– 32 two-wire crosspoints
– 300 V, 1 A switching

The Keysight 34904A gives you the most flexible connection path
between your device under test and your test equipment, allowing
different instruments to be connected to multiple points on your
DUT at the same time�

Col 1

H L

Col 2

H L

Col 8

H L

NC
COM
NO

NC
COM
NO

01

20

Rows or columns may be connected between multiple modules to
build 8x8, 4x16 or larger matrices, with up to 96 crosspoints in a
single frame�

H

Row 1

L

H

Row 2

L

H

Row 3

L

H

Row 4

L

H

L

H

Channel 31

L

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24 | Keysight | 34970A Data Acquisition/Switch Unit Family - Technical Overview

0 dB

-1 dB

-2 dB

-3 dB

-4 dB

10 MHz 100 MHz 1 GHz 3 GHz

1.80

1.60

1.40

1.20

1.00

10 MHz 100 MHz 1 GHz 3 GHz

10 MHz 100 MHz 1 GHz 3 GHz

-20 dB

-40 dB

-60 dB

-80 dB

-100 dB

10 MHz 100 MHz 1 GHz 3 GHz

34905A 50 Ω
34906A 75 Ω

Dual 4-Channel RF Multiplexers

– 2 GHz bandwidth
– BNC to SMB adapter cables included

The Keysight 34905A and 34906A RF multiplexers offer broad­band switching capabilities for high frequency and pulsed signals�
Use them to route test signals between your device under test
and your signal generator, oscillo-scope, spectrum analyzer, or
other instrumentation�

The RF multiplexers are arranged as two independent 1x4
multiplexers, each with a common shield and a switched center
conductor� Connections can be made directly to SMB inputs
with 2 GHz usable bandwidth, or to the BNC-to-SMB adapters
provided with 1 GHz bandwidth� Multiple banks may be cascaded
together for applications requiring even larger topologies—create
a 16:1 multiplexer in a single frame�

11

12

Com

13

14

21

22

Com

23

24

50 Ω MUX typical AC performance graphs

Insertion loss VSWR Crosstalk

0 dB

-1 dB

-2 dB

-3 dB

-4 dB

10 MHz 100 MHz 1 GHz 3 GHz

75 Ω MUX typical AC performance graphs

Insertion loss VSWR Crosstalk

0 dB

-1 dB

-2 dB

-3 dB

-4 dB

10 MHz 100 MHz 1 GHz 3 GHz

Direct to card

Using provided adapter cables

1.80

1.60

1.40

1.20

1.00

10 MHz 100 MHz 1 GHz 3 GHz

1.80

1.60

1.40

1.20

1.00

-20 dB

-40 dB

-60 dB

-80 dB

-100 dB

10 MHz 100 MHz 1 GHz 3 GHz

-20 dB

-40 dB

-60 dB

-80 dB

-100 dB

10 MHz 100 MHz 1 GHz 3 GHz

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25 | Keysight | 34970A Data Acquisition/Switch Unit Family - Technical Overview

Channel 03

34907A

Multifunction Module

– 16 bits of digital input and output
– 100 kHz totalizer input
– Two ±12 V analog outputs

The Keysight 34907A allows great flexibility for a variety of sense
and control applications� It combines two 8-bit ports of digital
input and output, a 100 kHz gated totalizer, and two ±12 V analog
outputs—all on a single earth-referenced module� The digital
inputs and totalizer input may be included in a scan� Alarm limits
for the digital and event counter inputs are evaluated continuous­ly, capturing and logging alarm conditions even between scans�

8

8

26 Bits

16

DIO

TOT

DAC 1

Bit 0

Bit 7
Bit 0

Bit 7

+IN

-IN

Gate
Gate

Channel 04

Port 1
Channel 01

Port 2
Channel 02

Digital input/ouput

Use the digital outputs with an external power supply to control
microwave switches and attenuators, solenoids, power relays,
indicators, and more� Use the digital inputs to sense limit switch
and digital bus status� There are no complex handshake modes;
reads and writes are initiated either from the front panel or the
bus�

Port 1, 2 8 bit, input or output, nonisolated
Vin(L) < 0�8 V (TTL)
Vin(H) > 2�0 V (T TL)
Vout(L) < 0�8 V @ Iout = –400 mA
Vout(H) > 2�4 V @ Iout = 1 mA
Vin(H) max < 42 V with external open drain pull-up
Alarming Maskable pattern match or state change
Speed 4 ms (max) alarm sampling
Latency 5 ms (typical) to 34970A alarm output
Read/write speed 95/s

Totalize input

Count events from devices like photo interrupters, limit switches,
and Hall-effect sensors�

It keeps an updated total which can be read via the front panel
or programmatically at any time� With 26 bits of resolution, it
can count events at full speed for nearly 11 minutes without an
overflow�
Max count 226 - 1
Totalize input 100 kHz (max) Rising or falling edge,
programmable
Signal level 1 Vp-p (min) 42 Vpk (max)
Threshold 0 V or TTL, jumper selectable
Gate Input TTL-Hi, TTL-Lo, or none
Count reset Manual or Read + Reset
Read speed 85/s

16

DAC 2

Channel 05

Analog output

Use the two electronically calibrated analog outputs to source
bias voltages to your device under test, to control your analog
programmable power supplies, or use the outputs as setpoints
for your control systems� The outputs are programmed directly in
volts, either from the front panel or from the bus�
DAC 1, 2 ±12 V, nonisolated
Resolution 1 mV
IOUT 10 mA max
Settling time 1 ms to 0�01% of output
Accuracy ±(% of output + mV)
1 year ±5°C 0�25% + 20 mV
Temp� coefficient ±( 0�015% + 1 mV)/°C

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26 | Keysight | 34970A Data Acquisition/Switch Unit Family - Technical Overview

Rack mounting and dimensions

To rack mount a single instrument, order adapter kit 34190A.

To rack mount two instruments side-by-side, order 34191A
2U dual flange kit and 34194A dual lock link kit.

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

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27 | Keysight | 34970A Data Acquisition/Switch Unit Family - Technical Overview

Ordering Information

Mainframe

34970A Data Acquisition/Switch Unit with RS-232 and
GPIB
34972A Data Acquisition/Switch Unit with LAN and
USB

Both mainframes include internal 61/2 digit DMM, test repor t,
power cord, thermocouple, and screwdriver� Included CD ROM
has Keysight BenchLink DataLogger3 software, IVI-COM and VXI
PnP Drivers, Example Code Wizard, Programmers Reference Help
File, Users Guide, Quick Start Tutorial and Service Guide� Modules
are purchased separately and are required to operate�

Option 001 Delete Internal DMM
Same as above but deletes DMM and Quick Start package�
Order 34970-80010 to retrofit DMM at a later time�

Option A6J ANSI Z540 compliant calibration
Option 0B0 Delete manual set
Option AB0 Taiwan: Chinese manual
Option AB1 Korea: Korean manual
Option AB2 China: Chinese manual
Option ABA English: English manual
Option ABD Germany: German manual
Option ABE Spain: Spanish manual
Option ABF France: French manual
Option ABJ Japan: Japanese manual
Option ABZ Italy: Italian manual

Accessories

110 62A Kelvin Clip Set
34830A Benchlink Data Logger Pro Software

optional software package that adds
limit checking and decision making for
more complex applications

34307A 10-pack of J-type thermocouples
34308A 5-pack of 10 kΩ thermistors
34161A Accessory pouch
34131A Hard carrying case (transit case)
E5810A LAN/GPIB gateway for use with 34970A
82357B USB/GPIB converter for use with

34970A

34 970-8 0010

with test report and Quick Start kit
34905-60001 Kit of 10 SMB-to-BNC adapter cables,

50 Ω

34906-60001 Kit of 10 SMB-to-BNC adapter cables,

75 Ω

USB adaptors—If you need to bring your USB memory port
to the front panel you may consider a USB adapter such as
the USBAM-USBAM from VPI or the ECF504-UABS from

L-COM.

To find more application notes are product demos see the
product web pages at:

www.keysight.com/find/34972A
www.keysight.com/find/34970A

DMM field installation kit� Fully calibrated

Modules

34 901A 20-Channel armature multiplexer
34902A 16-Channel reed multiplexer
34903A 20-Channel actuator/general purpose switch
34904A 4 x 8 Two-wire matrix switch
34905A Dual 4-Channel RF multiplexer, 50 Ohms
34906A Dual 4-Channel RF multiplexer, 75 Ohms
34907A Multifunction module
34908A 40-Channel single-ended multiplexer

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28 | Keysight | 34970A Data Acquisition/Switch Unit Family - Technical Overview

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Our unique combination of hardware, sof tware, services, and people can help you
reach your next breakthrough� We are unlocking the future of technology�

From Hewlett-Packard to Agilent to Keysight�

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A personalized view into the information most relevant to you�

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Register your products to get up-to-date product information and
find warranty information�

Keysight Services

www.keysight.com/find/service

Keysight Services can help from acquisition to renewal across your
instrument’s lifecycle� Our comprehensive service offerings—one­stop calibration, repair, asset management, technology refresh,
consulting, training and more—helps you improve product quality
and lower costs�

Keysight Assurance Plans

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Up to ten years of protection and no budgetary surprises to ensure
your instruments are operating to specification, so you can rely on
accurate measurements�

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Get the best of both worlds: Keysight’s measurement expertise and
product breadth, combined with channel partner convenience�

For more information on Keysight
Technologies’ products, applications or
services, please contact your local Keysight
office� The complete list is available at:

www.keysight.com/find/contactus

Americas

Canada [phone]
Brazil 55 11 3351 7010
Mexico 001 800 254 2440
United States [phone]

Asia Pacific

Australia 1 800 629 485
China 800 810 0189
Hong Kong 800 938 693
India 1 800 11 2626
Japan 0120 (421) 345
Korea 080 769 0800
Malaysia 1 800 888 848
Singapore 1 800 375 8100
Taiwan 0800 047 866
Other AP Countries (65) 6375 8100

Europe & Middle East

Austria 0800 001122
Belgium 0800 58580
Finland 0800 523252
France 0805 980333
Germany 0800 6270999
Ireland 1800 832700
Israel 1 809 343051
Italy 800 599100
Luxembourg [phone]
Netherlands 0800 0233200
Russia 8800 5009286
Spain 800 000154
Sweden 0200 882255
Switzerland 0800 805353

Opt� 1 (DE)
Opt� 2 (FR)
Opt� 3 (IT)

United Kingdom 0800 0260637

For other unlisted countries:

www.keysight.com/find/contactus

(BP-9-7-17)

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DEKRA Certified

ISO9001 Quality Management System

www.keysight.com/go/quality

Keysight Technologies, Inc�
DEKRA Certified ISO 9001:2015
Quality Management System

This information is subject to change without notice�
© Keysight Technologies, 2012-2018
Published in USA, January 18, 2018
5965-5290EN

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