Keysight 34970A/34972A Data Acquisition/Switch Unit: Service Guide

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Keysight 34970A/34972A

Data Acquisition/Switch Unit

Service Guide
Notices U.S. Government Rights Warranty
The Software is “commercial computer THE MATERIAL CONTAINED IN THIS
Copyright Notice software,” as defined by Federal Acqui- DOCUMENT IS PROVIDED “AS IS,”
sition Regulation (“FAR”) 2.101. Pursu- AND IS SUBJECT TO BEING
© Keysight Technologies 2009 - 2018 ant to FAR 12.212 and 27.405-3 and CHANGED, WITHOUT NOTICE, IN
No part of this manual may be repro- Department of Defense FAR Supple- FUTURE EDITIONS. FURTHER, TO THE
duced in any form or by any means ment (“DFARS”) 227.7202, the U.S. MAXIMUM EXTENT PERMITTED BY
(including electronic storage and government acquires commercial com- APPLICABLE LAW, KEYSIGHT DIS-
retrieval or translation into a foreign puter software under the same terms CLAIMS ALL WARRANTIES, EITHER
language) without prior agreement and by which the software is customarily EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, WITH REGARD
written consent from Keysight Technol- provided to the public. Accordingly, TO THIS MANUAL AND ANY INFORMA-
ogies as governed by United States and Keysight provides the Software to U.S. TION CONTAINED HEREIN, INCLUD-
international copyright laws. government customers under its stan- ING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE
dard commercial license, which is IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MER-
Manual Part Number embodied in its End User License CHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A
34972-90010 Agreement (EULA), a copy of which can PARTICULAR PURPOSE. KEYSIGHT
be found at http://www.keysight.com/ SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ERRORS
Edition find/sweula. The license set forth in the OR FOR INCIDENTAL OR CONSE-
Edition 5, January 15, 2018 EULA represents the exclusive authority QUENTIAL DAMAGES IN CONNECTION
by which the U.S. government may use, WITH THE FURNISHING, USE, OR
Printed in: modify, distribute, or disclose the Soft- PERFORMANCE OF THIS DOCUMENT
ware. The EULA and the license set OR OF ANY INFORMATION CON-
Printed in Malaysia forth therein, does not require or per- TAINED HEREIN. SHOULD KEYSIGHT
Published by: mit, among other things, that Keysight: AND THE USER HAVE A SEPARATE
(1) Furnish technical information WRITTEN AGREEMENT WITH WAR-
Keysight Technologies related to commercial computer soft- RANTY TERMS COVERING THE MATE-
Bayan Lepas Free Industrial Zone, ware or commercial computer software RIAL IN THIS DOCUMENT THAT
11900 Penang, Malaysia documentation that is not customarily CONFLICT WITH THESE TERMS, THE
provided to the public; or (2) Relinquish WARRANTY TERMS IN THE SEPARATE
Trademarks to, or otherwise provide, the govern- AGREEMENT SHALL CONTROL.
Adobe, the Adobe Logo, Acrobat and ment rights in excess of these rights
the Acrobat Logo are trademarks of customarily provided to the public to Safety Information
Adobe Systems Incorporated. use, modify, reproduce, release, per-
Microsoft is either a registered trade- form, display, or disclose commercial CAUTION
mark or a trademark of Microsoft Cor- computer software or commercial com-
poration in the United States and/or puter software documentation. No A CAUTION notice denotes a hazard. It
other countries. additional government requirements calls attention to an operating proce-
beyond those set forth in the EULA dure, practice, or the like that, if not
Windows and MS Windows are U.S.
shall apply, except to the extent that correctly performed or adhered to,
registered trademarks of Microsoft Cor-
those terms, rights, or licenses are could result in damage to the product
poration.
explicitly required from all providers of or loss of important data. Do not pro-
Technology Licenses commercial computer software pursu-
ceed beyond a CAUTION notice until
ant to the FAR and the DFARS and are
The hardware and/or software set forth specifically in writing else- the indicated conditions are fully
described in this document are fur- where in the EULA. Keysight shall be understood and met.
nished under a license and may be under no obligation to update, revise or
used or copied only in accordance with otherwise modify the Software. With
the terms of such license. respect to any technical data as WARNING
defined by FAR 2.101, pursuant to FAR
Declaration of Conformity 12.211 and 27.404.2 and DFARS A WARNING notice denotes a hazard. It
Declarations of Conformity for this 227.7102, the U.S. government calls attention to an operating proce-
product and for other Keysight prod- acquires no greater than Limited Rights dure, practice, or the like that, if not
ucts may be downloaded from the as defined in FAR 27.401 or DFAR correctly performed or adhered to,
Web. Go to http://www.keysight.com/ 227.7103-5 (c), as applicable in any could result in personal injury or death.
go/conformity. You can then search by technical data. Do not proceed beyond a WARNING
product number to find the latest Dec- notice until the indicated conditions are
laration of Conformity. fully understood and met.

2 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Software Updates/Licenses
Periodically, Keysight releases software updates to fix known defects and
incorporate product enhancements. To search for software updates and the latest
documentation for your product, go to the product page at:
www.keysight.com/find/34970A
www.keysight.com/find/34972A
A portion of the software in this product is licensed under terms of the General
Public License Version 2 (“GPLv2”). The text of the license and source code can be
found at:
www.keysight.com/find/GPLV2
This product utilizes Microsoft Windows CE. Keysight highly recommends that all
Windows-based computers connected to Windows CE instruments utilize current
anti-virus software. For more information, go to the product page at:
www.keysight.com/find/34970A
www.keysight.com/find/34972A

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 3


Safety Symbols
The following symbols on the instrument and in the documentation indicate
precautions which must be taken to maintain safe operation of the instrument.

Alternating current (AC) Frame or chassis (ground) terminal

Caution, risk of danger (refer to this


Caution, risk of electric shock manual for specific Warning or Caution
information)
Standby supply. Unit is not completely
disconnected from AC mains when Protective earth (ground) terminal
switch is off.

CAT I IEC Measurement

4 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Safety Considerations
Read the information below before using this instrument.
The following general safety precautions must be observed during all phases of
operation, service, and repair of this instrument. Failure to comply with these
precautions or with specific warnings elsewhere in this manual violates safety
standards for design, manufacture, and intended use of the instrument. Keysight
Technologies assumes no liability for the customer’s failure to comply with these
requirements.

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

Before Applying Power


Verify that all safety precautions are taken. Make all connections to the unit before
applying power and select the appropriate power line voltage on the fuse module.

Ground the Instrument


This product is provided with protective earth terminals. To minimize shock
hazard, the instrument must be connected to the ac power mains through a
grounded power cable, with the ground wire firmly connected to an electrical
ground (safety ground) at the power outlet. Any interruption of the protective
(grounding) conductor or disconnection of the protective earth terminal will cause
a potential shock hazard that could result in personal injury.

Do Not Operate in an Explosive Atmosphere


Do not operate the instrument in the presence of flammable gases or fumes.

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 5


Do Not Remove the Instrument Cover
Only qualified, service-trained personal who are aware of the hazards involved
should remove instrument covers. Always disconnect the power cable and any
external circuits before removing the instrument cover.

Do Not Modify the Instrument


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

In Case of Damage
Instruments that appear damaged or defective should be made inoperative and
secured against unintended operation until they can be repaired by qualified
service personnel.

6 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Environmental Conditions
The 34970A/34972A is designed for indoor use and in an area with low
condensation. The table below shows the general environmental requirements for
this instrument.

Environmental cond ition Requirement


Operating condition
Temperature
– 0 °C to 55 °C
Operating condition
Humidity
– 20% to 80% RH at 40°C or less (non-condensing)
Altitude Up to 2000 m
Pollution degree 2

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 7


Regulatory Markings

The CE mark is a registered trademark


of the European Community. This CE The CSA mark is a registered
mark shows that the product complies trademark of the Canadian
with all the relevant European Legal Standards Association.
Directives.
This symbol indicates the time period
during which no hazardous or toxic
The RCM mark is a registered
substance elements are expected to
trademark of the Australian
leak or deteriorate during normal use.
Communications and Media Authority.
Forty years is the expected useful life
of the product.

This text indicates that the instrument ICES/NMB-001 indicates that this ISM
is an Industrial Scientific and Medical device complies with the
1SM1- Canadian ICES-001.
Group 1 Class A product (CISPER 11,
Cet appareil ISM est conforme a la
Clause 4).
norme NMB-001 du Canada.

8 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive
This instrument complies with the WEEE Directive marking requirement. This
affixed product label indicates that you must not discard this electrical or
electronic product in domestic household waste.

Product category
With reference to the equipment types in the WEEE directive Annex 1, this
instrument is classified as a “Monitoring and Control Instrument” product.
The affixed product label is as shown below.

Do not dispose in domestic household waste.


To return this unwanted instrument, contact your nearest Keysight Service Center,
or visit http://about.keysight.com/en/companyinfo/environment/takeback.shtml
for more information.

Sales and Technical Support


To contact Keysight for sales and technical support, refer to the support links on
the following Keysight websites:
– www.keysight.com/find/34970A
www.keysight.com/find/34972A
(product-specific information and support, software and documentation
updates)
– www.keysight.com/find/assist
(worldwide contact information for repair and service)

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 9


Unless otherwise indicated, this manual applies to all serial numbers.
NOTE

The Keysight Technologies 34970A/34972A combines precision measurement


capability with flexible signal connections for your production and development
test systems. Three module slots are built into the rear of the instrument to accept
any combination of data acquisition or switching modules. The combination of
data logging and data acquisition features makes this instrument a versatile
solution for your testing requirements now and in the future.

Convenient Data Logging Features


– Direct measurement of thermocouples, RTDs, thermistors, DC voltage, AC
voltage, resistance, DC current, AC current, frequency, and period
– Interval scanning with storage of up to 50,000 time-stamped readings
– Independent channel configuration with function, Mx+B scaling, and alarm
limits available on a per-channel basis
– Intuitive user interface with knob for quick channel selection, menu navigation,
and data entry from the front panel
– Portable, ruggedized case with non-skid feet
– BenchLink Data Logger 3 Software for Microsoft® Windows ® included

Flexible Data Acquisition/Switching Features


– 6½-digit multimeter accuracy, stability, and noise rejection
– Up to 60 channels per instrument (120 single-ended channels)
– Reading rates up to 500 readings per second on a single channel and scan
rates up to 250 channels per second
– Choice of multiplexing, matrix, general-purpose Form C switching, RF
switching, digital I/O, totalize, and 16-bit analog output functions
– GPIB (IEEE-488) interface and RS-232 interface are standard on the 34970A.
Local Area Network (LAN) and Universal Serial Bus (USB) are standard on the
34972A.
– SCPI (Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments) compatibility

10 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


The Front Panel at a Glance

Denotes a menu key. See the next page for details on menu operation.

1 State Storage / Remote Interface Menus 8 Advanced Measurement / Utility Menus


2 Scan Start / Stop Key 9 Low-Level Module Control Keys
3 Measurement Configuration Menu 10 Single-Channel Monitor On / Off Key
4 Scaling Configuration Menu 11 View Scanned Data, Alarms, Errors Menu
5 Alarm / Alarm Output Configuration Menu 12 Shift / Local Key
6 Scan-to-Scan Interval Menu 13 Knob
7 Scan List Single Step / Read Key 14 Navigation Arrow Keys

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 11


The Front-Panel Menu at a Glance
Several of the front-panel keys guide you through menus to configure various
parameters of the instrument (see previous page). The following steps
demonstrate the menu structure using the key.

1 Press the menu key. You are automatically guided


to the first level of the menu. Rotate the knob to
view the other choices on the first level of the
menu.
The menu will automatically time out after about
20 seconds of inactivity. You will be returned to
the operation in progress prior to entering the
menu.
2 Press the same menu key again to move to the
next item of the menu. Typically, this is where you
choose parameter values for the selected
operation.

12 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


3 Rotate the knob to view the choices on this level
of the menu. When you reach the end of the list,
rotate the knob in the opposite direction to view
all of the other choices.
The current selection is highlighted for emphasis.
All other choices are dimmed.

4 Press the same menu key again to accept the


change and exit the menu. A brief confirmation
message is displayed.

Tip: To review the current configuration of a specific menu, press the


NOTE
menu key several times. A message NO CHANGES is displayed when you
exit the menu.

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 13


Display Annunciators

SCAN Scan is in progress or enabled. Press and hold again to turn off.

MON Monitor mode is enabled. Press again to turn off.


VIEW Scanned readings, alarms, errors, or relay cycles are being viewed.
CONFIG Channel configuration is in progress on displayed channel.
Measurement is in progress.
ADRS Instrument is addressed to listen or talk over the remote interface.
RMT Instrument is in remote mode (remote interface).

ERROR Hardware or remote interface errors are detected. Press to read errors.
EXT Instrument is configured for an external scan interval.

ONCE Scan Once mode is enabled. Press to initiate and hold key to disable.
MEM (34970A) Reading memory overflow; new readings will overwrite the oldest readings.
A USB drive is connected to the instrument (annunciator on), or data is being
MEM (34972A)
written to or read from the USB drive (annunciator flashing).
AUTO (34972A) USB logging is active.
LAST Viewed data is the last reading stored during most recent scan.
MIN Viewed data is the minimum reading stored during most recent scan.
MAX Viewed data is the maximum reading stored during most recent scan.

SHIFT has been pressed. Press again to turn off.


4W 4-wire function is in use on displayed channel.
OC Offset compensation is enabled on displayed channel.

14 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Alarms are enabled on displayed channel.

Mx+B scaling is enabled on displayed channel.

HI or LO alarm condition has occurred on indicated alarms.

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 15


The 34970A Rear Panel at a Glance

1 Slot Identifier (100,200, 300) 4 Power-Line Fuse-Holder Assembly


2 Ext Trig Input / Alarm Outputs / Channel 5 Power-Line Voltage Setting
Advance Input / Channel Closed Output 6 Chassis Ground Screw
3 RS-232 Interface Connector 7 GPIB (IEEE-488) Interface Connector

Use the Menu to:


– Select the GPIB or RS-232 interface (see Chapter 2).
– Set the GPIB address (see Chapter 2).
– Set the RS-232 baud rate, parity, and flow control mode (see Chapter 2).

For protection from electrical shock, the power cord ground must not be
WARNING defeated. If only a two-contact electrical outlet is available, connect the
instrument’s chassis ground screw (see above) to a good earth ground.

16 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


The 34972A Rear Panel at a Glance

1 Slot Identifier (100,200, 300) 4 Power-Line Fuse-Holder Assembly


2 Chassis Ground Screw 5 LAN Connector
3 Ext Trig Input / Alarm Outputs / Channel 6 USB Drive Connector
Advance Input / Channel Closed Output 7 USB Interface Connector[a]

Use the Menu to:


– Select and configure the LAN and USB interfaces (see Chapter 2).

[a] Under some conditions, while using the USB interface with the 34972A, you may experience connection or data
loss in the presence of an electrical transient from the main power line. You can re-establish the USB
communication by performing a reboot (cycle power) on the instrument. You can make the USB connection less
susceptible to a potential power line transient by inserting a USB hub in the connection between the computer and
the instrument.

For protection from electrical shock, the power cord ground must not be
WARNING defeated. If only a two-contact electrical outlet is available, connect the
instrument’s chassis ground screw (see above) to a good earth ground.

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 17


The Plug-In Modules at a Glance
For complete specifications on each plug-in modules, refer to the module
sections in Chapter 1.

34901A 20-Channel Armature Multiplexer


– 20 channels of 300 V switching
– Two channels for DC or AC current measurements (100 nA to 1A)
– Built-in thermocouple reference junction
– Switching speed of up to 60 channels per second
– Connects to the internal multimeter
– For detailed information and a module diagram, see page 151.
Each of the 20 channels switches both HI and LO inputs, thus providing fully
isolated inputs to the internal multimeter. The module is divided into two banks of
10 two-wire channels each. When making four-wire resistance measurements,
channels from Bank A are automatically paired with channels from Bank B. Two
additional fused channels are included on the module (22 channels total) for
making calibrated DC or AC current measurements with the internal multimeter
(external shunt resistors are not required). You can close multiple channels on this
module only if you have not configured any channels to be part of the scan list.
Otherwise, all channels on the module are break-before-make.

34902A 16-Channel Reed Multiplexer


– 16 channels of 300 V switching
– Built-in thermocouple reference junction
– Switching speed of up to 250 channels per second
– Connects to the internal multimeter
– For detailed information and a module diagram, see page 153.
Use this module for high-speed scanning and high-throughput automated test
applications. Each of the 16 channels switches both HI and LO inputs, thus
providing fully isolated inputs to the internal multimeter. The module is divided
into two banks of eight two-wire channels each. When making four-wire
resistance measurements, channels from Bank A are automatically paired with
channels from Bank B. You can close multiple channels on this module only if you

18 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


have not configured any channels to be part of the scan list. Otherwise, all
channels on the module are break-before-make.

34903A 20-Channel Actuator / General-Purpose Switch


– 300 V, 1 A actuation and switching
– SPDT (Form C) latching relays
– Breadboard area for custom circuits
– For detailed information and a module diagram, see page 155.
Use this module for those applications that require high-integrity contacts or
quality connections of non-multiplexed signals. This module can switch 300 V, 1 A
(50 W maximum switch power) to your device under test or to actuate external
devices. Screw terminals on the module provide access to the Normally-Open,
Normally-Closed, and Common contacts for each of the 20 switches. A
breadboard area is provided near the screw terminals to implement custom
circuitry, such as simple filters, snubbers, or voltage dividers.

34904A 4x8 Two-Wire Matrix Switch


– 32 two-wire crosspoints
– Any combination of inputs and outputs can be connected at a time
– 300 V, 1 A switching
– For detailed information and a module diagram, see page 156.
Use this module to connect multiple instruments to multiple points on your device
under test at the same time. You can connect rows and columns between multiple
modules to build larger matrices such as 8x8 and 4x16, with up to 96 crosspoints
in a single mainframe.

34905/6A Dual 4-Channel RF Multiplexers


– 34905A (50Ω) / 34906A (75Ω)
– 2 GHz bandwidth with on-board SMB connections
– 1 GHz bandwidth with SMB-to-BNC adapter cables provided
– For detailed information and a module diagram, see page 158.

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 19


These modules offer wideband switching capabilities for high frequency and
pulsed signals. Each module is organized in two independent banks of 4-to-1
multiplexers. Both modules offer low crosstalk and excellent insertion loss
performance. To create larger RF multiplexers, you can cascade multiple banks
together. Only one channel in each bank may be closed at a time.

34907A Multifunction Module


– Two 8-bit Digital Input/Output ports, 400 mA sink, 42 V open collector
– 100 kHz Totalize input with 1 Vpp sensitivity
– Two 16-bit, ±12 V Calibrated Analog Outputs
– For detailed information and module block diagrams, see page 162.
Use this module to sense status and control external devices such as solenoids,
power relays, and microwave switches. For greater flexibility, you can read digital
inputs and the count on the totalizer during a scan.

34908A 40-Channel Single-Ended Multiplexer


– 40 channels of 300 V single-ended (common LO) switching
– Built-in thermocouple reference junction
– Switching speed of up to 60 channels per second
– Connects to the internal multimeter
– For detailed information and a module diagram, see page 160.
Use this module for high-density switching applications which require single-wire
inputs with a common LO. All relays are break-before-make to ensure that only
one relay is connected at any time.

20 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


In This Book
Specifications Chapter 1 lists the technical specifications for the mainframe
and plug-in modules.

Quick Start Chapter 2 helps you get familiar with a few of the instrument’s
front-panel features.

Front-Panel Overview Chapter 3 introduces you to the front-panel menus and


describes some of the instrument’s menu features.

Calibration Procedures Chapter 4 provides calibration, verification, and


adjustment procedures for the instrument.

Theory of Operation Chapter 5 describes block and circuit level theory related
to the operation the instrument.

Service Chapter 6 provides guidelines for returning your instrument to Keysight


Technologies for servicing, or for servicing it yourself. It also contains a list of
replaceable parts.

If you have questions relating to the operation of the 34970A/34972A, call


1-800-452-4844 in the United States, or contact your nearest Keysight
Technologies Sales Office.
If your 34970A/34972A fails within one year of original purchase, Keysight will
replace it free of charge. Call 1-800-829-4444 and select “Option 3” followed by
“Option 1”.

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 21


THIS PAGE HAS BEEN INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK.

22 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Table of Contents

Software Updates/Licenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Safety Symbols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Safety Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Before Applying Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Ground the Instrument . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Do Not Operate in an Explosive Atmosphere . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Do Not Remove the Instrument Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Do Not Modify the Instrument . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
In Case of Damage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Environmental Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Regulatory Markings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive . . . . . . . . 9
Product category . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Sales and Technical Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
The Front Panel at a Glance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
The Front-Panel Menu at a Glance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Display Annunciators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
The 34970A Rear Panel at a Glance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
The 34972A Rear Panel at a Glance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
The Plug-In Modules at a Glance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
In This Book . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21

1 Specifications

2 Quick Start
Quick Start . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32
To Prepare the Instrument for Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33
To Connect Wiring to a Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34
To Set the Time and Date . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 23


To Configure a Measurement Channel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
To Monitor a Single Channel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
To Close a Channel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
If the Instrument Does Not Turn On . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
To Adjust the Carrying Handle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
To Rack Mount the Instrument . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

3 Front-Panel Overview
Front-Panel Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Front-Panel Menu Reference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
To Unsecure for Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
To Secure Against Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
To Change the Security Code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Error Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
To Perform a Zero Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
To Apply Mx+B Scaling to Measurements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
To Read the Relay Cycle Count . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
To Read a Digital Input Port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
To Write to a Digital Output Port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
To Read the Totalizer Count . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
To Output a DC Voltage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

4 Calibration Procedures
Calibration Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
Keysight Technologies Calibration Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Calibration Interval . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Adjustment is Recommended . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Time Required for Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Automating Calibration Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Recommended Test Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Input Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

24 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Calibration Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71
To Unsecure the Instrument Without the Security Code . . . . . . . . .72
Calibration Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74
Calibration Count . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74
Calibration Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75
Aborting a Calibration in Progress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75
Test Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .76
Performance Verification Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .77
Self-Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .78
Quick Performance Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .79
Performance Verification Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .79
Internal DMM Verification Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .80
Zero Offset Verification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .80
Gain Verification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .82
Optional AC Performance Verification Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87
Internal DMM Adjustments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88
Zero Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88
Gain Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .89
–10 VDC Adjustment Procedure (Optional) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .92
Plug-in Module Test Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .94
Relay Verification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .95
Relay Cycle Count . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .95
(Optional) 34901A Relay Contact Resistance Verification . . . . . . . .96
(Optional) 34902A Relay Contact Resistance Verification . . . . . . .103
(Optional) 34903A Relay Contact Resistance Verification . . . . . . .108
(Optional) 34904A Relay Contact Resistance Verification . . . . . . .109
(Optional) 34905/06A Relay Contact Resistance Verification . . . .112
(Optional) 34908A Relay Contact Resistance Verification . . . . . . .113
Thermocouple Reference Junction (Optional) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .119
Thermocouple Reference Junction Verification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .119
Thermocouple Reference Junction Adjustments . . . . . . . . . . . . . .120
34907A Analog Output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .122

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 25


Analog Output Verification Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122
Analog Output Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123

5 Theory of Operation
Theory of Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126
System Block Diagram . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127
Floating Logic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128
Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131
Earth-Referenced Logic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132
Power Supplies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133
Front Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135
Backplane . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136
Analog Bus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136
Digital Bus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136
Internal DMM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137
DMM Block Diagram . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137
Input . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138
Input Amplifier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139
Ohms Current Source . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141
AC Circuit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142
A-to-D Converter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144
Switch Modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 146
Switch Module Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147
Relay Drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149
34901A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151
34902A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 153
34903A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 155
34904A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 156
34905A/34906A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 158
34908A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 160
Multifunction Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 162
Multifunction Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 162
Totalizer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 164

26 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Analog Output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .165
Digital I/O . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .166

6 Service
Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .170
Operating Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .171
Types of Service Available . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .172
Repackaging for Shipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .173
Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .173
Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .174
Surface Mount Repair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .174
To Replace the Power-Line Fuse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .175
Troubleshooting Hints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .175
Self-Test Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .179
Disassembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .184
General Disassembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .185
Internal DMM Disassembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .186
Front Panel Disassembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .187
Additional Chassis Disassembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .188
Plug-In Module Disassembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .189
Recyclable Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .191
Replaceable Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .194
To Order Replaceable Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .194
Parts List for 34970A/34972A and 34901A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .194

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 27


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28 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Keysight 34970A/34972A Data Acquisition/Switch Unit
Service Guide

1 Specifications
For the specifications and characteristics of the 34970A/34972A Data
Acquisition/Switch Unit, refer to the datasheet at
http://literature.cdn.keysight.com/litweb/pdf/5965-5290EN.pdf

29
1 Specifications

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30 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Keysight 34970A/34972A Data Acquisition/Switch Unit
Service Guide

2 Quick Start
Quick Start 32
To Prepare the Instrument for Use 33
To Connect Wiring to a Module 34
To Set the Time and Date 36
To Configure a Measurement Channel 37
To Monitor a Single Channel 38
To Close a Channel 39
If the Instrument Does Not Turn On 41
To Adjust the Carrying Handle 43
To Rack Mount the Instrument 44

31
2 Quick Start

Quick Start
One of the first things to do with your instrument is to become acquainted with
the front panel. We have written the exercises in this chapter to prepare the
instrument for use and help you get familiar with some of its front-panel
operations.
The front panel has several groups of keys to select various functions and
operations. A few keys have a shifted function printed in blue below the key. To
perform a shifted function, press (the SHIFT annunciator will turn on). Then,
press the key that has the desired label below it. For example, to select the Utility
Menu, press .

If you accidentally press , just press it again to turn off the SHIFT
annunciator.
This chapter is divided into the following sections:
– “To Prepare the Instrument for Use” on page 33
– “To Connect Wiring to a Module” on page 34
– “To Set the Time and Date” on page 36
– “To Configure a Measurement Channel” on page 37
– “To Monitor a Single Channel” on page 38
– “To Close a Channel” on page 39
– “If the Instrument Does Not Turn On” on page 41
– “To Adjust the Carrying Handle” on page 43
– “To Rack Mount the Instrument” on page 44

32 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Quick Start 2

To Prepare the Instrument for Use


1 Check the list of supplied items.
Verify that you have received the following items with your instrument. If
anything is missing, contact your nearest Keysight Technologies Sales Office.
– One power cord.
– One User’s Guide.
– This Service Guide.
– One Quick Reference Guide.
– Certificate of Calibration (if you ordered the internal DMM).
– BenchLink Data Logger 3 Software CD-ROM.
– Quick Start Package (if you ordered the internal DMM):
– One RS-232 cable.
– One J-type thermocouple and a flatblade screwdriver.
– Any plug-in modules that you ordered are delivered in a separate shipping
container.
2 Verify that the fuse on the back is set to the proper voltage range for your
AC power.
3 Connect the power cord and turn on the instrument.
The front-panel display will light up briefly while the instrument performs its
power-on self-test. The instrument initially powers up with all measurement
channels turned off. To review the power-on display with all annunciators
turned on, hold down as you turn on the instrument. If the instrument
does not turn on properly, see page 41.
4 Perform a complete sel f-test.
The complete self-test performs a more extensive set of tests than those
performed at power-on. Hold down as you turn on the instrument and
hold down the key until you hear a long beep. The self-test will begin when
you release the key following the beep.

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 33


2 Quick Start

To Connect Wiring to a Module


1 Remove the module cover. 2 Connect wiring to the screw terminals.

20 AWG Typical

6 mm

3 Route wiring through strain relief. 4 Replace the module cover.

Cable Tie Wrap


(optional)

5 Install the module into mainframe. Wiring Hints...

Channel Number: – For detailed information on each module, refer to the


34970A/34972A User’s Guide.
– To reduce wear on the internal DMM relays, wire like
Slot Channel functions on adjacent channels.
– Use shielded twisted pair PTFE insulated cables to
reduce settling and noise errors.
– The diagrams on the next page show how to connect
wiring to a multiplexer module for each measurement
function.

34 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Quick Start 2

Thermocouple DC Voltage / AC Voltage / Frequency

Thermocouple Types: B, E, J, K, N, R, S, T
See the 34970A/34972A User’s Guide for Ranges: 100 mV, 1 V, 10 V, 100 V, 300 V
thermocouple color codes.

2-Wire Ohms / RTD / Thermistor 4-Wire Ohms / RTD

Ranges: 100, 1 k, 10 k, 100 k, 1 M, 10 M, 100 MΩ


RTD Types: 0.00385, 0.00391
Thermistor Types, 2.2 k, 5 k, 10 k

DC Current / AC Current

Channel n (source) is automatically paired with Channel n


+10 (sense) on the 34901A, or
Channel n +8 (sense) on the 34902A.
Ranges: 100, 1 k, 10 k, 100 k, 1 M, 10 M, 100 MΩ
Valid only on channels 21 and 22 on the 34901A RTD Types: 0.00385, 0.00391
Ranges: 10 mA, 100 mA, 1A

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 35


2 Quick Start

To Set the Time and Date


All readings during a scan are automatically time stamped and stored in
non-volatile memory. In addition, alarm data is time stamped and stored in a
separate non-volatile memory queue.
1 Set the time of day.

Use and to select the field to modify and turn the knob to change the
value. You can also edit the AM/PM field.

TIME 03:45 PM

2 Set the date.

Use and to select the field to modify and turn the knob to change the
value.

JUN 01 2002

36 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Quick Start 2

To Configure a Measurement Channel


Use this general procedure to configure a measurement channel.
1 Select the channel.
Turn the knob until the desired channel is shown on the right side of
front-panel display. The channel number is a three-digit number; the left-most
digit represents the slot number (100, 200, or 300) and the two digits on the
right indicate the channel number (102, 110, etc.).

NOTE You can use and to skip to the beginning of the previous or next slot.

2 Select the measurement parameters for the selected channel.


Use the knob to scroll through the measurement choices on each level of the
menu. When you press to make your selection, the menu automatically
guides you through all relevant choices to configure a measurement on the
selected function. When you have finished configuring the parameters, you are
automatically exited from the menu.
The present selection (or default) is displayed in full bright for easy
identification. When you make a different selection, the new choice is shown in
full bright and it becomes the default selection. The order of the choices
always remains the same; however, you always enter the menu at the current
(full bright) setting for each parameter.

The menu will time-out after about 20 seconds of inactivity and any changes
NOTE made previously will take effect.

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 37


2 Quick Start

To Monitor a Single Channel


You can use the Monitor function to continuously take readings on a single
channel, even during a scan. This feature is used during front panel calibration
procedures.
1 Select the channel to be monitored.
Only one channel can be monitored at a time but you can change the channel
being monitored at any time by turning the knob.
2 Enable monitoring on the selected channel.
Any channel that can be “read” by the instrument can be monitored (the MON
annunciator turns on). This includes any combination of temperature, voltage,
resistance, current, frequency, or period measurements on multiplexer
channels. You can also monitor a digital input port or the totalizer count on the
multifunction module.

To disable monitoring, press again.

38 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Quick Start 2

To Close a Channel
On the multiplexer and switch modules, you can close and open individual relays
on the module. However, note that if you have already configured any multiplexer
channels for scanning, you cannot independently close and open individual relays
on that module.
1 Select the channel.
Turn the knob until the desired channel is shown on the right side of
front-panel display. For this example, select channel 213.
2 Close the selected channel.

3 Open the selected channel.

NOTE will sequentially open all channels on the module in the selected slot.

The table below shows the low-level control operations available for each of
the plug-in modules.

Plug-In Module ,

34901A 20-Channel Mux Y Y Y Y


34902A 16-Channel Mux Y Y Y Y

34908A 40-Channel Single-Ended Mux[a] Y Y Y Y

34903A 20-Channel Actuator Y Y


34904A 4x8 Matrix Y Y

34905A Dual 4-Channel RF Mux (50Ω)[b] Y

34906A Dual 4-Channel RF Mux (75Ω)[b] Y

34907A Multifunction Module (DIO) Y Y Y

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 39


2 Quick Start

Plug-In Module ,

34907A Multifunction Module (Totalizer) Y Y


34907A multifunction Module (DAC) Y

[a] Only one channel can be closed at a time on this module.


[b] Only one channel in each bank can be closed at a time on this module.

40 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Quick Start 2

If the Instrument Does Not Turn On


Use the following steps to help solve problems you might encounter when turning
on the instrument.
1 Verify that there is AC power to the instrument.
First, verify that the power cord is firmly plugged into the power receptacle on
the rear panel of the instrument. You should also make sure that the power
source you plugged the instrument into is energized. Then, verify that the
instrument is turned on.

The On/Standby switch is located on the lower left side of the front panel.
2 Verify the power-line voltage setting.
The line voltage is set to the proper value for your country when the
instrument is shipped from the factory. Change the voltage setting if it is not
correct. The settings are: 100, 120, 220, or 240 VAC.

– For 127 VAC operation, use the 120 VAC setting.


NOTE
– For 230 VAC operation, use the 220 VAC setting.

See the next page if you need to change the line voltage setting.
3 Verify that the power-line fuse is good.
The instrument is shipped from the factory with a 500 mA fuse installed. This is
the correct fuse for all line voltages.
See the next page if you need to replace the power-line fuse.

To replace the 500 mAT, 250 V fuse, order Keysight part number 2110-0458.
NOTE

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 41


2 Quick Start

1 Remove the power cord. Remove the 2 Remove the line voltage selector from the
fuse-holder assembly from the rear panel. assembly.

Fuse: 500 mAT (for all line voltages)


Keysight Part Number: 2110-0458

3 Rotate the line-voltage selector until the 4 Replace the fuse-holder assembly in the rear
correct voltage appears in the window. panel.

100, 120 (127), 220 (230), or 240 VAC

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

42 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Quick Start 2

To Adjust the Carrying Handle


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

Bench-top viewing position Carrying position

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 43


2 Quick Start

To Rack Mount the Instrument


You can mount the instrument in a standard 19-inch rack cabinet using one of
three optional kits available. Instructions and mounting hardware are included
with each rack-mounting kit. Any Keysight System II instrument of the same size
can be rack-mounted beside the 34970A/34972A.

Remove the carrying handle, and the front and rear rubber bumpers, before
NOTE rack-mounting the instrument.

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

Front Rear (bottom view)

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

44 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Quick Start 2

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

To rack mount two instruments side-by-side, order lock-link kit 5061-9694 and
flange kit 5063-9212. Be sure to use the support rails inside the rack cabinet.

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

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 45


2 Quick Start

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46 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Keysight 34970A/34972A Data Acquisition/Switch Unit
Service Guide

3 Front-Panel Overview
Front-Panel Overview 48
Front-Panel Menu Reference 49
To Unsecure for Calibration 52
To Secure Against Calibration 53
To Change the Security Code 54
Error Messages 55
To Perform a Zero Adjustment 56
To Apply Mx+B Scaling to Measurements 57
To Read the Relay Cycle Count 58
To Read a Digital Input Port 59
To Write to a Digital Output Port 60
To Read the Totalizer Count 61
To Output a DC Voltage 62

47
3 Front-Panel Overview

Front-Panel Overview
This chapter introduces you to the front-panel keys and menu operation. This
chapter does not give a detailed description of every front-panel key or menu
operation. It does, however, give you an overview of the front-panel menus and
many front-panel operations. See the Keysight 34970A/34972A User’s Guide for a
complete discussion of the instrument’s capabilities and operation.
This chapter is divided into the following sections:
– “Front-Panel Menu Reference” on page 49
– “To Unsecure for Calibration” on page 52
– “To Secure Against Calibration” on page 53
– “To Change the Security Code” on page 54
– “Error Messages” on page 55
– “To Perform a Zero Adjustment” on page 56
– “To Apply Mx+B Scaling to Measurements” on page 57
– “To Read the Relay Cycle Count” on page 58
– “To Read a Digital Input Port” on page 59
– “To Write to a Digital Output Port” on page 60
– “To Read the Totalizer Count” on page 61
– “To Output a DC Voltage” on page 62

48 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Front-Panel Overview 3

Front-Panel Menu Reference


This section gives an overview of the front-panel menus. The menus are designed
to automatically guide you through all parameters required to configure a
particular function or operation. The remainder of this chapter contains examples
of using the front-panel menus.

Configure the measurement parameters on the d isplayed channel.

– Select the measurement function (dc volts, ohms, etc.) on the displayed channel.
– Select transducer type for temperature measurements.
– Select units (°C, °F, or K) for temperature measurements.
– Select measurement range or autorange.
– Select measurement resolution.
– Copy and paste measurement configuration to other channels.

Configure the scaling parameters for the d isplayed channel.

– Set the gain (“M”) and offset (“B”) value for the displayed channel.
– Make a null measurement and store it as the offset value.
– Specify a custom label (RPM, PSI, etc.) for the displayed channel.

Configure alarms on the d isplayed channel.

– Select one of four alarms to report alarm conditions on the displayed channel.
– Configure a high limit, low limit, or both for the displayed channel.
– Configure a bit pattern that will generate an alarm (digital input only).

Configure the four Alarm Output hard ware lines.

– Clear the state of the four alarm output lines.


– Select the “Latch” or “Track” mode for the four alarm output lines.
– Select the slope (rising or falling edge) for the four alarm output lines.

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3 Front-Panel Overview

Configure the event or action that controls the scan interval.

– Select the scan interval mode (interval, manual, external, or alarm).


– Select the scan count.

Configure the ad vanced measurement features on d isplayed channel.

– Set the integration time for measurements on the displayed channel.


– Set the channel-to-channel delay for scanning.
– Enable/disable the thermocouple check feature (T/C measurements only).
– Select the reference junction source (T/C measurements only).
– Set the low frequency limit (ac measurements only).
– Enable/disable offset compensation (resistance measurements only).
– Select the binary or decimal mode for digital operations (34907A only).
– Configure the totalizer reset mode (totalizer only).
– Select which edge is detected (rising or falling) for totalizer operations.

Configure system-related instrument parameters.

– Set the real-time system clock and calendar.


– Query the firmware revisions for the mainframe and installed modules.
– Select the instrument’s power-on configuration (last or factory reset).
– Enable/disable the internal DMM.
– Secure/unsecure the instrument for calibration.

View read ings, alarms, and errors.

– View the last 100 scanned readings from memory (last, min, max, and average).
– View the first 20 alarms in the alarm queue (reading and time alarm occurred).
– View up to 10 errors (34970A) or 20 errors (34972A) in the error queue.
– Read the number of cycles for the displayed relay (relay maintenance feature).

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Front-Panel Overview 3

Store and recall instrument states.

– Store up to five instrument states in non-volatile memory.


– Assign a name to each storage location.
– Recall stored states, power-down state, factory reset state, or preset state.

Configure the remote interface (34970A).

– Select the GPIB address.


– Configure the RS-232 interface (baud rate, parity, and flow control).

Configure the remote interface (34972A).

– Configure the LAN settings (IP Address, Hostname, DHCP, etc.)


– Configure the USB settings (Enable, USB ID, etc.)
– Configure and use the USB drive (Logging, etc.)

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3 Front-Panel Overview

To Unsecure for Calibration


You can unsecure the instrument either from the front panel or over the remote
interface. The instrument is secured when shipped from the factory and the
security code is set to “HP034970” or “AT034972”, depending on the product
number.
– Once you enter a security code, that code must be used for both front-panel
and remote operation. For example if you secure the instrument from the front
panel, you must use that same code to unsecure it from the remote interface.

– Press to enter the Utility menu.


When you first enter the Utility menu, the calibration entries toggle between CAL
SECURED and UNSECURE CAL. To unsecure the instrument, select
UNSECURE CAL and press . After entering the correct security code, press
again. When you return to the menu, you will see new choices CAL
UNSECURED and SECURE CAL.

If you enter the wrong secure code, NO MATCH is displayed and a new choice,
NOTE EXIT, is shown.

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Front-Panel Overview 3

To Secure Against Calibration


You can secure the instrument either from the front panel or over the remote
interface. The instrument is secured when shipped from the factory and the
security code is set to “HP034970” or “AT034972”, depending on the product
number.
– Once you enter a security code, that code must be used for both front-panel
and remote operation. For example if you secure the instrument from the front
panel, you must use that same code to unsecure it from the remote interface.

– Press to enter the Utility menu.


When you enter the Utility menu, the calibration entries toggle between CAL
UNSECURED and SECURE CAL. To secure the instrument, select SECURE CAL
and press . After entering the desired security code, press again. When
you return to the menu, you will see new choices CAL SECURED and UNSECURE
CAL.

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3 Front-Panel Overview

To Change the Security Code


– To change the security code, you must first unsecure the instrument, and then
enter a new code. Make sure you have read the security code rules described
on page 71 before attempting to change the security code.
– To change the security code, first make sure that the instrument is unsecured.
Go to the SECURE CAL entry, enter the new security code, and press (the
instrument is now secured with the new code). Changing the code from the front
panel also changes the code as seen from the remote interface.

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Front-Panel Overview 3

Error Messages
Error messages are retrieved in a first-in-first-out (FIFO) order.

When the ERROR annunciator is on, press to view error messages. use the
arrow keys to scroll the message in the display.
A list of the self-test errors messages and their meanings begins on page 179.
For a complete list of error messages and descriptions, see Chapter 6 in the
34970A/34972A User’s Guide.

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3 Front-Panel Overview

To Perform a Zero Adjustment


The instrument features closed case electronic calibration. No internal mechanical
adjustments are required. The instrument calculates correction factors based
upon an input reference value and stores the correction factors in non-volatile
memory. This procedure demonstrates making the zero adjustment from the front
panel. The gain adjustments are similar.
DO NOT perform this procedure before reading Chapter 4. Chapter 4 describes
this procedure, the required input connections, input signals, and test
considerations required for a valid adjustment.
1 Configure the channel.
You must configure a channel before applying performing the adjustment
procedure. Configure the channel to DC VOLTS and 6½ digits.
2 Apply the input signal.
In this example, the input signal is a copper short (see page 69).
3 Setup the calibration.
The display will show PERFORM CAL.
4 Set the ad justment value.
The display will show the a number. Edit the number to the actual input value.
For the Zero Adjustment, the input value is 0.000000.

+000.000,000 mVDC

5 Begin the ad justment.


The display will show the progress of the adjustment. When all the
adjustments are completed, the display will show done.

DONE

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Front-Panel Overview 3

To Apply Mx+B Scaling to Measurements


The scaling function allows you to apply a gain and offset to all readings on a
specified multiplexer channel during a scan. In addition to setting the gain (“M”)
and offset (“B”) values, you can also specify a custom measurement label for your
scaled readings (RPM, PSI, etc.).
1 Configure the channel.
You must configure the channel (function, transducer type, etc.) before
applying any scaling values. If you change the measurement configuration,
scaling is turned off on that channel and the gain and offset values are reset
(M=1 and B=0).
2 Set the gain and offset values.
The scaling values are stored in non-volatile memory for the specified
channels. A Factory Reset turns off scaling and clears the scaling values on all
channels. An Instrument Preset or Card Reset does not clear the scaling values
and does not turn off scaling.

+1.000,000 Set Gain

-0.700,000 OHM Set Offset

3 Select the custom label.


You can specify an optional three-character label for your scaled readings
(RPM, PSI, etc.). The default label is the standard engineering unit for the
selected function (VDC, OHM, etc.).

LABEL AS OHM

4 Scaling is now applied to the measurements.

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3 Front-Panel Overview

To Read the Relay Cycle Count


The instrument has a Relay Maintenance System to help you predict relay
end-of-life. The instrument counts the cycles on each relay in the instrument and
stores the total count in non-volatile memory on each switch module. You can use
this feature on any of the relay modules and the internal DMM.
– In addition to the channel relays, you can also query the count on backplane
relays and bank relays. Note that you cannot control the state of these relays
from the front panel but you can query the count.
– You can also query the state of the three relays on the internal DMM. These
relays are numbered “1”, “2”, and “3” (which correspond to relays K102, K103,
and K104 respectively). These relays open or close when a function or range is
changed on a module.
– The 34908A multiplexer contains 40 channels which are switched (HI only)
using only 20 relays. Each relay is used to switch HI on two different channels
(and only one channel can be closed at a time). The channels are arranged
such that channels 01 and 21 use different contacts on the same relay. The
remaining channels are also paired in the same manner (channels 02 and 22,
channels 03 and 23, etc.). Therefore, when you query the relay count on a
channel, the number reflects the number of times that the relay was closed.
For example, the relay count will always be the same on channels 01 and 21.
– For more information on relay life and load considerations, refer to “Relay Life
and Preventative Maintenance” in the 34970A/34972A User’s Guide.
– To read the count on the active channel, choose the following item and then
turn the knob. To read the count on the internal DMM relays, turn the knob
counterclockwise beyond the lowest numbered channel in the instrument. To
read the “hidden” relays, turn the knob clockwise beyond the highest
numbered channel in the current slot.

RELAY CYCLES

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Front-Panel Overview 3

To Read a Digital Input Port


The multifunction module (34907A) has two non-isolated 8-bit input/output ports
which you can use for reading digital patterns. You can read the live status of the
bits on the port or you can configure a scan to include a digital read.
1 Select the Digital Input port.
Select the slot containing the multifunction module and continue turning the
knob until DIN is displayed (channel 01 or 02).
2 Read the specified port.
You can specify whether you want to use binary or decimal format. Once you
have selected the number base, it is used for all input or output operations on
the same port. To change the number base, press the key and select USE
BINARY or USE DECIMAL.

01010101 DIN Binary Display Shown

The bit pattern read from the port will be displayed until you press another key,
turn the knob, or until the display times out.

NOTE To add a digital input channel to a scan list, press and select the DIO READ
choice.

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3 Front-Panel Overview

To Write to a Digital Output Port


The multifunction module (34907A) has two non-isolated 8-bit
input/output ports which you can use for outputting digital patterns.
1 Select the Digital Output port.
Select the slot containing the multifunction module and continue turning the
knob until DIN is displayed (channel 01 or 02).
2 Enter the bit pattern ed itor.
Notice that the port is now converted to an output port (DOUT).

00000000 DOUT Binary Display Shown

3 Ed it the bit pattern.

Use the knob and or keys to edit the individual bit values. You can
specify whether you want to use binary or decimal format. Once you have
selected the number base, it is used for all input or output operations on the
same port. To change the number base, press the key and select USE
BINARY or USE DECIMAL.

240 DOUT Decimal Display Shown

4 Output the bit pattern to the specified port.


The specified bit pattern is latched on the specified port. To cancel an output
operation in progress, wait for the display to time out.

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Front-Panel Overview 3

To Read the Totalizer Count


The multifunction module (34907A) has a 26-bit totalizer which can count pulses
at a 100 kHz rate. You can manually read the totalizer count or you can configure
a scan to read the count.
1 Select the totalizer channel.
Select the slot containing the multifunction module and continue turning the
knob until TOTALIZE is displayed (channel 03).
2 Configure the totalize mode.
The internal count starts as soon as you turn on the instrument. You can
configure the totalizer to reset the count to “0” after being read or it can count
continuously and be manually reset.

READ + RESET

3 Read the count.

The count is read once each time you press ; the count does not update
automatically on the display. As configured in this example, the count is
automatically reset to “0” each time you read it.

12345 TOT

The count will be displayed until you press another key, turn the knob, or until
the display times out. To manually reset the totalizer count, press .

To add a totalizer channel to a scan list, press and select the TOT READ choice.
NOTE

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3 Front-Panel Overview

To Output a DC Voltage
The multifunction module (34907A) has two analog outputs capable of outputting
calibrated voltages between ±12 volts.
1 Select a DAC Output channel.
Select the slot containing the multifunction module and continue turning the
knob until DAC is displayed (channel 04 or 05).
2 Enter the output voltage ed itor.

+00.000 V DAC

3 Set the desired output voltage.

Use the knob and or keys to edit the individual digits.

+05.250VDAC

4 Output the voltage from the selected DAC.


The output voltage will be displayed until you press another key or turn the
knob. To manually reset the output voltage to 0 volts, press .

62 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Keysight 34970A/34972A Data Acquisition/Switch Unit
Service Guide

4 Calibration Procedures
Calibration Procedures 64
Keysight Technologies Calibration Services 66
Calibration Interval 66
Time Required for Calibration 67
Automating Calibration Procedures 67
Recommended Test Equipment 68
Input Connections 69
Calibration Security 71
Calibration Message 74
Calibration Count 74
Calibration Procedure 75
Aborting a Calibration in Progress 75
Test Considerations 76
Performance Verification Tests 77
Internal DMM Verification Tests 80
Optional AC Performance Verification Tests 87
Internal DMM Adjustments 88
–10 VDC Adjustment Procedure (Optional) 92
Plug-in Module Test Considerations 94
Relay Verification 95
Thermocouple Reference Junction (Optional) 119
34907A Analog Output 122

63
4 Calibration Procedures

Calibration Procedures
This chapter contains procedures for verification of the instrument’s performance
and adjustment (calibration). These procedures are required only if the internal
DMM is installed. The chapter is divided into the following sections:
– “Keysight Technologies Calibration Services” on page 66
– “Calibration Interval” on page 66
– “Time Required for Calibration” on page 67
– “Automating Calibration Procedures” on page 67
– “Recommended Test Equipment” on page 68
– “Input Connections” on page 69
– “Calibration Security” on page 71
– “Calibration Message” on page 74
– “Calibration Count” on page 74
– “Calibration Procedure” on page 75
– “Aborting a Calibration in Progress” on page 75
– “Test Considerations” on page 76
– “Performance Verification Tests” on page 77
– “Internal DMM Verification Tests” on page 80
– “Optional AC Performance Verification Tests” on page 87
– “Internal DMM Adjustments” on page 88
– “–10 VDC Adjustment Procedure (Optional)” on page 92
– “Plug-in Module Test Considerations” on page 94
– “Relay Verification” on page 95
– “Thermocouple Reference Junction (Optional)” on page 119
– “34907A Analog Output” on page 122

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Calibration Procedures 4

Closed-Case Electronic Calibration


The instrument features closed-case electronic calibration. No internal
mechanical adjustments are required. The instrument calculates correction
factors based upon the input reference value you set. The new correction factors
are stored in non-volatile memory until the next calibration adjustment is
performed. Non-volatile EEPROM calibration memory does not change when
power has been off or after a remote interface reset.

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4 Calibration Procedures

Keysight Technologies Calibration Services


When your instrument is due for calibration, contact your local Keysight Service
Center for a low-cost recalibration. The 34970A/34972A is supported on
automated calibration systems which allow Keysight to provide this service at
competitive prices.

Calibration Interval
The instrument should be calibrated on a regular interval determined by the
measurement accuracy requirements of your application.
A 1-year interval is adequate for most applications. Accuracy specifications are
warranted only if adjustment is made at regular calibration intervals. Accuracy
specifications are not warranted beyond the 1-year calibration interval. Keysight
does not recommend extending calibration intervals beyond 2 years for any
application.

Adjustment is Recommended
Whatever calibration interval you select, Keysight recommends that complete
re-adjustment should always be performed at the calibration interval. This will
assure that the 34970A/34972A will remain within specification for the next
calibration interval. This criteria for re-adjustment provides the best long-term
stability. Performance data measured using this method can be used to extend
future calibration intervals.
Use the Calibration Count feature (see page 74) to verify that all adjustments have
been performed.

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Calibration Procedures 4

Time Required for Calibration


The 34970A/34972A can be automatically calibrated under computer control.
With computer control you can perform the complete calibration procedure and
performance verification tests in less than 30 minutes once the instrument is
warmed-up (see “Test Considerations” on page 76). Manual calibrations using the
recommended test equipment will take approximately 2 hours.

Automating Calibration Procedures


You can automate the complete verification and adjustment procedures outlined
in this chapter if you have access to programmable test equipment. You can
program the instrument configurations specified for each test over the remote
interface. You can then enter readback verification data into a test program and
compare the results to the appropriate test limit values.
You can also adjust the instrument from the remote interface. Remote adjustment
is similar to the local front-panel procedure. You can use a computer to perform
the adjustment by first selecting the required function and range. The calibration
value is sent to the instrument and then the calibration is initiated over the remote
interface. The instrument must be unsecured prior to initiating the calibration
procedure.
For further information on programming the instrument, see Chapter 5 in the
34970A/34972A User’s Guide.

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4 Calibration Procedures

Recommended Test Equipment


The test equipment recommended for the performance verification and
adjustment procedures is listed below. If the exact instrument is not available,
substitute calibration standards of equivalent accuracy.
A suggested alternate method would be to use the Keysight 3458A 8½­digit
Digital Multimeter to measure less accurate yet stable sources. The output value
measured from the source can be entered into the instrument as the target
calibration value.

Application Recommended Equipment Accuracy Requirements

Zero Calibration[a] None 4 -terminal all copper short

DC Voltage[a] Fluke 5700A <1/5 instrument 24 hour spec

DC Current[a] Fluke 5700A/5725A <1/5 instrument 24 hour spec

Resistance[a] Fluke 5700A <1/5 instrument 24 hour spec

AC Voltage[a] Fluke 5700A/5725A <1/5 instrument 24 hour spec

AC Current[a] Fluke 5700A/5725A <1/5 instrument 24 hour spec

Frequency[a] Keysight 33220A <1/5 instrument 24 hour spec

Analog Output 34907A Keysight 34401A <1/5 instrument 24 hour spec


Thermocouple Reference Junction
Thermistor YSI 44031 (two)[b]
34901A
J Type Calibrated Thermocouple Triple ±0.1 °C
34902A
34908A Point Cell

Relay contact resistance


Keysight 34401A ±0.001W resolution
All switch modules

[a] In addition to the internal DMM, these applications require an input multiplexer module. The Keysight 34901A is recommended.
[b] Thermistor YSI 44031 is available as Keysight part number 34308A (package of five).

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Calibration Procedures 4

Input Connections
You will need an input multiplexer module to verify or adjust the internal DMM.
Input connections can be made using a 34901A
20-Channel Multiplexer.
To use a 34901A to completely verify and adjust the internal DMM, make the
following connections:

Connections for Connections for Connections for DC V, AC V,


DC/AC Current 4-wire Ohms 2- and 4-wire Ohms

Copper Short

34901A

To
Calibrator

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4 Calibration Procedures

Use shielded twisted pair PTFE insulated cables to reduce settling and noise
NOTE errors. Connect the shield to the source LO output.

You can also use a 34902A for test and adjustment of voltage, frequency, and
resistance functions. You cannot test or adjust current inputs with a 34902A. If
you use a 34902A, connect the copper shorts to Channels 7 and 15 and make the
input connections to Channels 8 and 16.

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Calibration Procedures 4

Calibration Security
This feature allows you to enter a security code to prevent accidental or
unauthorized adjustments of the instrument. When you first receive your
instrument, it is secured. Before you can adjust the instrument, you must
unsecure it by entering the correct security code. See page 52 in Chapter 3 for a
procedure to enter the security code.
– The security code is set to “HP034970” or “AT034972”, depending on the
product number, when the instrument is shipped from the factory. The security
code is stored in non-volatile memory, and does not change when power has
been off, after a Factory Reset (*RST command), or after an Instrument Preset
(SYSTem:PRESet command).
– The security code may contain up to 12 alphanumeric characters. The first
character must be a letter, but the remaining characters can be letters,
numbers, or an underscore ( _ ). You do not have to use all 12 characters but
the first character must always be a letter.

If you forget your security code, you can disable the security feature by adding a
NOTE jumper inside the instrument as described on the following page.

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4 Calibration Procedures

To Unsecure the Instrument Without the Security Code


To unsecure the instrument without the correct security code, follow the steps
below. A front panel procedure to unsecure the instrument is given on page 52.
See “Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Precautions” on page 174 before beginning
this procedure.

SHOCK HAZARD. Only service-trained personnel who are aware of the


WARNING hazards invol ved should remove the instrument covers. The proced ures in
this section require that you connect the power cord to the instrument with
the covers removed. To avoid electrical shock and personal injury, be
careful not to touch the power-line connections.

1 Disconnect the power cord and all input connections.


2 Remove the instrument cover (see page 184). Turn the instrument over.
3 Apply power and turn on the instrument.
Be careful not to touch the power line connections.

– Exposed Mains
WARNING
– Do not Touch!

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Calibration Procedures 4

4 Apply a short between the two exposed metal pads marked


CAL UNLOCK as shown in the figure below.

Apply Short

5 While maintaining the short, enter any unsecure code. The instrument is now
unsecured.
6 Remove the short.
7 Turn off the instrument and remove the power cord. Reassemble the
instrument.
Now you can enter a new security code. Be sure to remember the new security
code.

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4 Calibration Procedures

Calibration Message
The instrument allows you to store one message in calibration memory. For
example, you can store such information as the date when the last calibration was
performed, the date when the next calibration is due, the instrument’s serial
number, or even the name and phone number of the person to contact for a new
calibration.
– You can record a calibration message only from the remote interface and only
when the instrument is unsecured. You can read the message from either the
front-panel or over the remote interface. You can read the calibration message
whether the instrument is secured or unsecured.
– The calibration message may contain up to 40 characters. From the front
panel, you can view 13 characters of the message at a time. Press to scroll
through the text of the message. Press again to increase the scrolling
speed.

Calibration Count
You can query the instrument to determine how many calibrations have been
performed. Note that your instrument was calibrated before it left the factory.
When you receive your instrument, be sure to read the count to determine its
initial value.
– The calibration count increments up to a maximum of 65,535 after which it
rolls over to “0”. Since the value increments by one for each calibration point, a
complete calibration may increase the value by many counts.
– The calibration count is also incremented with calibrations of the DAC
channels on the multifunction module.
– Front-Panel Operation:
CAL COUNT
– Remote Interface Operation:
CALibration:COUNt?

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Calibration Procedures 4

Calibration Procedure
The following procedure is the recommended method to complete an instrument
calibration.
1 Read Test Considerations (page 76).
2 Unsecure the instrument for calibration (page 52).
3 Perform the verification tests to characterize the instrument (incoming data).
4 Perform the zero adjustment procedures.
5 Perform the gain adjustment procedures. Perform the verification tests to
verify the adjustments (outgoing data).
6 Secure the instrument against calibration.
7 Note the new security code and calibration count in the instrument’s
maintenance records.

Aborting a Calibration in Progress


Sometimes it may be necessary to abort a calibration after the procedure has
already been initiated. You can abort a calibration at any time by turning off the
power. When performing a calibration from the remote interface, you can abort a
calibration by issuing a remote interface device clear message.

If you abort a calibration in progress when the instrument is attempting to


CAUTION write new calibration constants to EEPROM, you may lose all calibration
constants for the function. Typically, upon re-applying power, the instrument
will report error 705 Cal:Aborted. You may also generate errors 740 through
746. If this occurs, you should not use the instrument until a complete
re-adjustment has been performed.

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4 Calibration Procedures

Test Considerations
To ensure proper instrument operation, verify that you have selected the correct
power line voltage prior to attempting any procedure in this chapter. See “If the
Instrument Does Not Turn On” on page 41.
Errors may be induced by AC signals present on the input leads during a self-test.
Long test leads can also act as an antenna causing pick-up of AC signals.
For optimum performance, all procedures should comply with the following
recommendations:
– Assure that the calibration ambient temperature is stable and between 18 °C
and 28 °C. Ideally the calibration should be performed at 23 °C ±1 °C.
– Assure ambient relative humidity is less than 80%.
– Allow a 2-hour warm-up period with a copper short connected and the
multiplexer module installed before verification or adjustment.The connections
are shown in the figure on page 69.
– Use shielded twisted pair PTFE insulated cables to reduce settling and noise
errors. Keep the input cables as short as possible.
– Connect the input cable shield to the source LO output.Except where noted in
the procedures, connect the calibrator LO source to earth ground.
Two-wire Ohms measurements are affected by the entire path length, including
the plug-in card trace length and slot trace lengths. On the 34901A, Channel 10 is
recommended as the median path length (on the 34902A, use Channel 8) for
2-wire Ohms verification and adjustments. Install the input multiplexer in slot 200.
Because the instrument is capable of making highly accurate measurements, you
must take special care to ensure that the calibration standards and test
procedures used do not introduce additional errors. Ideally, the standards used to
verify and adjust the instrument should be an order of magnitude more accurate
than each instrument range full scale error specification.
For the DC voltage, DC current, and resistance gain verification measurements,
you should take care to ensure the calibrator’s “0” output is correct. If necessary,
the measurements can be referenced to the calibrator’s “0” output using Mx + B
scaling (see page 57). You will need to set the offset for each range of the
measuring function being verified.

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Calibration Procedures 4

Performance Verification Tests


Use the Performance verification Tests to verify the measurement performance of
the instrument. The performance verification tests use the instrument’s
specifications listed in Chapter 1, "Specifications" starting on page 29.
You can perform four different levels of performance verification tests:

Self-Test
A series of internal verification tests that give a high confidence that the
instrument is operational.

Quick Verification
A combination of the internal self-tests and selected verification tests.

Performance Verification Tests


An extensive set of tests that are recommended as an acceptance test when you
first receive the instrument or after performing adjustments.

Optional Verification Tests


Tests not performed with every calibration. Perform these tests to verify additional
specifications or functions of the instrument.

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4 Calibration Procedures

Self-Test
A brief power-on self-test occurs automatically whenever you turn on the
instrument. This limited test assures that the instrument is capable of operation
and also checks the plug-in cards for basic operation.

To perform a complete self-test hold down the key as you press the power
switch to turn on the instrument; hold down the key for more than 5
seconds until the instrument beeps (a complete description of these tests can be
found in Chapter 6). The instrument will automatically perform the complete
self-test procedure when you release the key. The self-test will complete in
approximately 20 seconds.
– If the self-test is successful, “PASS” is displayed on the front panel.
– If the self-test fails, “FAIL” is displayed and the ERROR annunciator turns on. If
repair is required, see Chapter 6, "Service" for further details.
– If all tests pass, you have a high confidence (~90%) that the instrument is
operational.

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Calibration Procedures 4

Quick Performance Check


The quick performance check is a combination of internal self-test and an
abbreviated performance test (specified by the letter Q in the performance
verification tests). This test provides a simple method to achieve high confidence
in the instrument’s ability to functionally operate and meet specifications. These
tests represent the absolute minimum set of performance checks recommended
following any service activity. Auditing the instrument’s performance for the quick
check points (designated by a Q) verifies performance for “normal” accuracy drift
mechanisms. This test does not check for abnormal component failures.
To perform the quick performance check, do the following:
– Perform a complete self-test. A procedure is given on page 78.
– Perform only the performance verification tests indicated with the letter Q.
If the instrument fails the quick performance check, adjustment or repair is
required.

Performance Verification Tests


The performance verification tests are recommended as acceptance tests when
you first receive the instrument. The acceptance test results should be compared
against the 90 day test limits. You should use the 24-hour test limits only for
verification within 24 hours after performing the adjustment procedure. After
acceptance, you should repeat the performance verification tests at every
calibration interval.
If the instrument fails performance verification, adjustment or repair is required.
Adjustment is recommended at every calibration interval. If adjustment is not
made, you must guard band, using no more than 80% of the specifications listed
in Chapter 1, as the verification limits.

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 79


4 Calibration Procedures

Internal DMM Verification Tests


These procedures use inputs connected to a 34901A 20-Channel Multiplexer (see
page 69) installed in slot 200.

Zero Offset Verification


This procedure is used to check the zero offset performance of the internal DMM.
Verification checks are only performed for those functions and ranges with unique
offset calibration constants. Measurements are checked for each function and
range as described in the procedure below.
Zero Offset Verification Procedure
1 Make sure you have read “Test Considerations” on page 76.
2 This procedure will measure the shorts installed on Channels 209 and 219.
Leave the Amps input connections (Channel 221) open.
3 Select each function and range in the order shown in the table below. Before
executing each test, you must press to enable reading monitoring on the
selected channel (or use the ROUTe:MON command from the remote interface).
Compare measurement results to the appropriate test limits shown in the table
(see page 79).

Channel 221 Quick Error from Nominal


Input
Function[b] Range Check[a] 24 hour 90 day 1 year

Open 10 mA ± 1 mA ± 2 mA ± 2 mA
Open DC Current 100 mA ± 4 mA ± 5 mA ± 5 mA
Q
Open 1A ± 60 mA ± 100 mA ± 100 mA

80 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Calibration Procedures 4

Channel 209 Quick Error from Nominal


Input
Function[b] Range Check[a] 24 hour 90 day 1 year

Short 100 mV ± 3.5 mV ± 4 mV ± 4 mV


Short 1V ± 6 mV ± 7 mV ± 7 mV
Short DC Volts 10V ± 40 mV ± 50 mV ± 50 mV
Short 100V Q ± 600 mV ± 600 mV ± 600 mV
Short 300V ± 6 mV ± 9 mV ± 9 mV
Short 100 W ± 3.5 mW ± 4 mW ± 4 mW
Short 2-Wire 1 kW ± 6 mW ± 10 mW ± 10 mW
Short Ohms[c] 10 kW ± 50 mW ± 100 mW ± 100 mW
Short and 100 kW ± 500 mW ±1W ±1W
Short 4-Wire 1 MW Q ± 10 W ± 10 W ± 10 W
Short Ohms 10 MW ± 100 W ± 100 W ± 100 W
Short 100 MW ± 10 kW ± 10 kW ± 10 kW

[a] Q: Quick performance verification test points.


[b] Select 6½ digit resolution.
[c] For 2-wire ohms, an additional 4W of error must be added.

Zero offset calibration using a multifunction calibrator is NOT recommended.


NOTE The calibrator and cabling offset can be large and unstable causing poor offset
calibration of the internal DMM.

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 81


4 Calibration Procedures

Gain Verification
This procedure is used to check the “full scale” reading accuracy of the internal
DMM. Verification checks are performed only for those functions and ranges with
unique gain calibration constants. Begin verification by selecting a measuring
function and range. Make sure you have read “Test Considerations” on page 76.

DC VOLTS, Resistance, and DC CURRENT Gain Verification Test


1 Make sure you have read “Test Considerations” on page 76.
2 Select each function and range in the order shown below. Before executing
each test, you must press to enable reading monitoring on the selected
channel (or use the ROUTe:MON command from the remote interface).
3 Compare measurement results to the appropriate test limits shown in the
table. (Be certain to allow for appropriate source settling.)

Channel 210 Quick Error from Nominal


Input
Function[b] Range Check[a] 24 hour 90 day 1 year

-10 V 10V ± 190 mV ± 250 mV ± 400 mV


100 mV 100 mV ± 6.5 mV ± 8 mV ± 9 mV
1V DC Volts 1V ± 26 mV ± 37 mV ± 47 mV
10V 10V Q ± 190 mV ± 250 mV ± 400 mV
100V 100V Q ± 2.6 mV ± 4.1 mV ± 5.1 mV
300V 300V ± 12 mV ± 19.5 mV ± 22.5 mV
100 W 100 W ± 6.5 mW ± 12 mW ± 14 mW
1 kW 2-Wire 1 kW ± 26 mW ± 90 mW ± 110 mW
Q
10 kW Ohms[d] 10 kW ± 250 mW ± 900 mW ± 1.1 W
100 kW and 100 kW ± 2.5 W ±9W ± 11 W
1 MW 4-Wire 1 MW ± 30 W ± 90 W ± 110 W
10 MW Ohms 10 MW ± 1.6 kW ± 2.1 kW ± 4.1 kW
Q
100 MW[c] 100 MW ±310 kW ± 810 kW ± 810 kW

82 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Calibration Procedures 4

Channel 209 Quick Error from Nominal


Input
Function[b] Range Check[a] 24 hour 90 day 1 year

10 mA 10 mA ± 1.5 mA ± 5 mA ± 7 mA
100 mA DC Current 100 mA ± 14 mA ± 35 mA ± 55 mA
Q
1A 1A ± 560 mA ± 900 mA ± 1.1 mA

[a] Q: Quick performance verification test points.


[b] Select 6½ digit resolution.
[c] Verify only, no adjustment required.
[d] The 2-wire ohms resistance verification test is optional (see note on page 89). For 2-wire ohms, an additional 1 W
of error must be added (see page 29). Add a 1-second channel delay when using Fluke 5700 in 2-wire
compensated mode. This avoids response time issues with 2-wire compensation when 34970A/34972A’s current
source contains a pulse.

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 83


4 Calibration Procedures

AC VOLTS Gain Verification Test


Configuration: AC Volts
LF 3 HZ:SLOW (in the Advanced menu)
1 Make sure you have read “Test Considerations” on page 76.
2 Select Channel 210, set the AC VOLTS function and the 3 Hz input filter. With
the slow filter selected, each measurement takes 7 seconds to complete.

Before executing each test, you must press to enable reading monitoring
on the selected channel (or use the ROUTe:MON command from the remote
interface).
3 Select each range in the order shown below. Compare measurement results to
the appropriate test limits shown in the table. (Be certain to allow for
appropriate source settling.)

Input Quick Error from Nominal


Range
V rms Frequency Check[a] 24 hour 90 day 1 year
100 mV 1 kHz ± 70 mV ± 90 mV ± 100 mV
100 mV 100 mV
50 kHz ± 150 mV ± 160 mV ± 170 mV
1V 1 kHz ± 700 mV ± 900 mV ± 1 mV
1V 1V Q
50 kHz ± 1.5 mV ± 1.6 mV ± 1.7 mV
10 V 1 kHz ± 7 mV ± 9 mV ± 10 mV
10 V 10 V
50 kHz ± 15 mV ± 16 mV ± 17 mV
10 V 10 Hz ± 7 mV ± 9 mV ± 10 mV
Q
10 mV[b] 1 kHz ± 34 mV ± 45 mV ± 46 mV
100 mV
100 V 1 kHz ± 70 mV ± 90 mV ± 100 mV
100 V
100 V 50 kHz ± 150 mV ± 160 mV ± 170 mV
Q
300 V 1 kHz ± 270 mV ± 390 mV ± 420 mV
300V
300 V[c] 50 kHz ± 600 mV ± 690 mV ± 720 mV

[a] Q: Quick performance verification test points.


[b] For this test, isolate the calibrator’s output from earth ground.
[c] Some calibrators may have difficulty driving the internal DMM and cable load at this V-Hz output. Use short, low
capacitance cable to reduce calibration loading. Verification can be performed at >195 Vrms. New test limits can
be computed from the accuracy specification shown in Chapter 1 for the actual test conditions used.

84 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Calibration Procedures 4

The 50 kHz AC voltage test points may fail performance verification if the
NOTE internal shields have been removed and reinstalled. See “Gain Adjustment” on
page 89, for further information on how to recalibrate the AC voltage function.

AC CURRENT Gain Verification Test


Configuration: AC Current
LF 3 HZ:SLOW (in the Advanced menu)
1 Make sure you have read “Test Considerations” on page 76.
2 Select Channel 221, set the AC CURRENT function and the 3 Hz input filter.
With the slow filter selected, each measurement takes 7 seconds to complete.
Before executing each test, you must press to enable reading monitoring
on the selected channel (or use the ROUTe:MON command from the remote
interface).
3 Select each range in the order shown below. Compare measurement results to
the appropriate test limits shown in the table. (Be certain to allow for
appropriate source settling.)

Input Quick Error from Nominal


Range
Current Frequency Check[a] 24 hour 90 day 1 year

10 mA[b] 1 kHz 10 mA ± 14 mA ± 14 mA ± 14 mA
100 mA[b] 1 kHz 100 mA ± 600 mA ± 600 mA ± 600 mA
10 mA 1 kHz 1A Q ± 1.41 mA ± 1.41 mA ± 1.41 mA
1 A[b] 1 kHz 1A ± 1.4 mA ± 1.4 mA ± 1.4 mA

[a] Q: Quick performance verification test points.


[b] Verify only, no adjustment.

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 85


4 Calibration Procedures

Frequency Gain Verification Test


Configuration: Frequency
6½ digits
1 Make sure you have read “Test Considerations” on page 76.
2 Select Channel 210, select the FREQUENCY function and set 6½ digits.
3 Select each range in the order shown below. Compare measurement results to
the appropriate test limits shown in the table. (Be certain to allow for
appropriate source settling.)

Input Quick Error from Nominal


Range
Vol tage Frequency Check[a] 24 hour 90 day 1 year

10 mV[b] 100 Hz 100 mV ± 0.06 Hz ± 0.1 Hz ± 0.1 Hz


1V 100 kHz 1V Q ± 6 Hz ± 10 Hz ± 10 Hz

[a] Q: Quick performance verification test points.


[b] Verify only, no adjustment. For this test, isolate the calibrator’s output from earth ground.

86 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Calibration Procedures 4

Optional AC Performance Verification Tests


These tests are not intended to be performed with every calibration. They are
provided as an aid for verifying additional instrument specifications. There are no
adjustments for these tests; they are provided for performance verification only.
Configuration: AC Volts
LF 3 HZ:SLOW (in the Advanced menu)
1 Make sure you have read “Test Considerations” on page 76.
2 Select Channel 210, select the AC Volts function and the 3 HZ filter. Before
executing each test, you must press to enable reading monitoring on the
selected channel (or use the ROUTe:MON command from the remote interface).
3 Select each range in the order shown below. Compare measurement results to
the appropriate test limits shown in the table. (Be certain to allow for
appropriate source settling.)

Input Error from Nominal


Range
Vol tage Frequency 24 hour 90 day 1 year
1V 20 Hz 1V ± 700 mV ± 900 mV ± 1 mV
1V 20 kHz 1V ± 700 mV ± 900 mV ± 1 mV
1V 100 kHz 1V ± 6.3 mV ± 6.8 mV ± 6.8 mV
1V 200 kHz 1V ± 45 mV ± 45 mV ± 45 mV
1V 250 kHz 1V ± 45 mV ± 45 mV ± 45 mV
1V 300 kHz 1V ± 45 mV ± 45 mV ± 45 mV

10 V 1 kHz 10 V ± 7 mV ± 9 mV ± 10 mV
1V 1 kHz 10 V ± 3.4 mV ± 4.5 mV ± 4.6 mV
100 mV 1 kHz 10 V ± 13 mV ± 14 mV ± 14.06 mV

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 87


4 Calibration Procedures

Internal DMM Adjustments


You will need a 34901A 20-Channel Multiplexer to perform the following
procedures (see page 69). Install the Multiplexer in slot 200.

Zero Adjustment
Each time you perform a zero adjustment, the Internal DMM stores a new set of
offset correction constants for every measurement function and range. The
Internal DMM will sequence through all required functions and ranges
automatically and store new zero offset calibration constants. All offset
corrections are determined automatically. You may not correct a single range or
function without re-entering ALL zero offset correction constants automatically.
This feature is intended to save calibration time and improve zero calibration
consistency.

Never turn off the Internal DMM during Zero Adjustment.This may cause ALL
NOTE calibration memory to be lost.

Zero Adjustment Procedure


The zero adjustment procedure takes about 5 minutes to complete. Be sure to
allow the instrument to warm up for 2 hours before performing the adjustments.
Follow the steps outlined below. Review “Test Considerations” on page 76 before
beginning this test. Also see page 56, for an example of how to initiate a zero
calibration.
1 This procedure will use the copper shorts installed on Channels 209 and 219.
Leave the Amps input connections (Channel 221) open.
2 Select Channel 209. Select the DC VOLTS function.

3 Press to enter the calibration menu. Press again to begin the


adjustment procedure.
4 Use the knob and arrow keys to set the number in the display to 0.000000 and
press .
5 Perform the Zero Offset Verification tests (see page 80) to check zero
calibration results.

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Calibration Procedures 4

Gain Adjustment
The Internal DMM stores a single new gain correction constant each time this
procedure is followed. The gain constant is computed from the calibration value
entered for the calibration command and from measurements made automatically
during the adjustment procedure.
Most measuring functions and ranges have gain adjustment procedures. Only the
100 MW range does not have gain calibration procedures. The gain calibration
value may be entered through the front panel menu or over the remote interface.
See page 56, for an example of how to enter calibration values.
Adjustments for each function should be performed ONLY in the order shown in
the performance verification table. See “Performance Verification Tests” earlier in
this chapter for the tables used for gain adjustments.

Gain Adjustment Considerations


– The zero adjustment procedure must have been recently performed prior to
beginning any gain adjustment procedures.
– The optional –10 VDC adjustment should be performed only after servicing the
Internal DMM’s a-to-d converter or after replacing network A4U101 or
calibration RAM A4U505.
– When performing a 4-wire ohms gain adjustment, a new gain correction
constant is also stored for the corresponding 2-wire ohms measurement
range. If desired, the 2-wire gain can be adjusted separately after the 4-wire
ohms gain calibration is completed.
– During the AC voltage gain adjustments, some of the DC voltage gain
constants are used. Perform the DC voltage gain calibration before the AC
voltage gain calibration.

Never turn off the instrument during a Gain Adjustment. This may cause
NOTE calibration memory for the present function to be lost.

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 89


4 Calibration Procedures

Valid Gain Adjustment Input Values


Gain adjustment can be accomplished using the following input values.

Function Range Valid Calibration Input Values


DC VOLTS 100 mV to 100 V 0.9 to 1.1 x Full Scale
300 V 250 V to 303 V

OHMS, OHMS 4W 100W to 10 MW 0.9 to 1.1 x Full Scale

DC CURRENT 10 mA to 1 A 0.9 to 1.1 x Full Scale

AC VOLTS[a] 10 mV to 100 V 0.9 to 1.1 x Full Scale


300 V 95 V to 303 V

AC CURRENT 1A 9 mA to 11 mA

Frequency Any Any Input >100 mV rms,


1 kHz - 100 kHz

[a] Valid frequencies are as follows: 1 kHz ± 10% for the 1 kHz calibration,
45 kHz - 100 kHz for the 50 kHz calibration,
and 10 Hz ± 10% for the 10 Hz calibration.

90 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Calibration Procedures 4

Gain Adjustment Procedure


Adjustment for each function should be performed only in the order shown in the
performance verification table. The performance verification tables used for gain
adjustments start on page 82.
Review the Test Considerations (page 76) and Gain Adjustment (page 89) sections
before beginning this test.
Configuration: DC functions — 6½ digits
AC functions — LF 3 HZ:SLOW (in the Advanced menu)
1 Select Channel 210. Configure the channel to each function and range shown
in the gain verification tables (pages 80 – 79).
2 Apply the input signal shown in the “Input” column of the appropriate
verification table.
3 Note: Always complete tests in the same order as shown in the appropriate
verification table.

4 Press to enter the calibration menu. Press again to begin the


adjustment procedure.
5 Use the knob, and and to set the number in the display to the actual
input value and press .
6 Perform the appropriate Gain Verification Test to check the calibration results.
7 Repeat steps 1 through 6 for each gain verification test point shown in the
tables.

Each range in the gain adjustment procedure takes less than


NOTE 20 seconds to complete.

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 91


4 Calibration Procedures

–10 VDC Adjustment Procedure (Optional)


The –10 VDC calibration electronically enhances the Internal DMM’s
a-to-d converter linearity characteristic. This adjustment should ONLY be
performed after servicing the A-to-D converter or replacement of the calibration
RAM.
You will need a 34901A 20-Channel Multiplexer to perform the following
procedures (see page 69). Install the Multiplexer in slot 200.
1 If a zero calibration has not been performed recently, perform one before
beginning this procedure (see page 88).
2 Select Channel 210. Configure the channel as follows:
DC VOLTS
10 V range
6½ digits
INTEG 100 PLC (in the Advanced menu)
INPUT R > 10 G (in the Advanced menu)

Before executing each test, you must press to enable reading monitoring
on the selected channel (or use the ROUTe:MON command from the remote
interface).
3 Measure and note the voltage offset present at the end of the measurement
cable by shorting the ends of the Channel 210 measurement cable. Be sure to
use a copper wire and allow enough time for the residual thermal offset to
stabilize (usually about 1 minute).
4 Connect the input cable to the calibrator output and set the calibrator to
output +10V. Allow enough settling time for any thermal offset voltages to
stabilize (usually about 1 minute).

5 Perform a +10V DC gain calibration. Press to enter the calibration


menu. Press again to begin the adjustment procedure.

92 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Calibration Procedures 4

6 Use the knob, and to set the number in the display to the sum of the
calibrator output and the measured offset (from step 3) and press . For
example, if the calibrator output is 10.001 volts and the measured offset is 10
µV, enter +10.001010 volts. When the adjustment finishes, verify that new
readings fall within ± 20 µV of the calibrator output plus the offset.
7 Reverse the cable connections to the calibrator to create a -10 VDC voltage
standard. You must physically reverse the cables. DO NOT switch the output
polarity of the calibrator.

8 Perform a –10V DC gain calibration. Press to enter the calibration


menu. Press again to begin the adjustment procedure. Be sure to allow
time for thermal offsets to stabilize (usually about 1 minute).
9 Use the knob, and to set the number in the display to the difference of
the calibrator output and the measured offset (from step 3) and press .
Using the previous example values, enter 10 µV minus 10.001 volts or
–10.000990 volts.
10 When the adjustment finishes, verify that new readings fall within ± 30 µV of
the calibrator output minus the offset.

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 93


4 Calibration Procedures

Plug-in Module Test Considerations


For optimum performance, all test procedures should comply with the following
recommendations:
– Assure that the calibration ambient temperature is stable and between 18 °C
and 28 °C. Ideally the calibration should be performed at 23 °C ± 1 °C.
– Assure ambient relative humidity is less than 80%.
– Install the plug-in module and allow a 45 minute warm-up period before
verification or adjustment.
– Use shielded twisted pair PTFE insulated cables to reduce settling and noise
errors. Keep the input cables as short as possible.
– Remove all user wiring and connections from the plug-in modules before
verification or adjustment.
– Use 4-wire Ohms measurement techniques for checking relay contact
resistance. Check directly at the terminals where possible.

94 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Calibration Procedures 4

Relay Verification
There are two methods you can use to verify relays:
– Read the relay cycle count.
– Measure the relay contact resistance.

Relay Cycle Count


The instrument has a Relay Maintenance System to help you predict relay
end-of-life. The instrument counts the cycles on each relay in the instrument and
stores the total count in non-volatile memory on each switch module. You can use
this feature on any of the relay modules and the internal DMM.
– In addition to the channel relays, you can also query the count on backplane
relays and bank relays. Note that you cannot control the state of these relays
from the front panel but you can query the count.
– You can also query the state of the three relays on the internal DMM. These
relays are numbered “1”, “2”, and “3” (which correspond to relays K102, K103,
and K104 respectively). These relays open or close when a function or range is
changed on a module.
– The 34908A multiplexer contains 40 channels which are switched (HI only)
using only 20 relays. Each relay is used to switch HI on two different channels
(and only one channel can be closed at a time). The channels are arranged
such that channels 01 and 21 use different contacts on the same relay. The
remaining channels are also paired in the same manner (Channels 02 and 22,
Channels 03 and 23, etc.). Therefore, when you query the relay count on a
channel, the number reflects the number of times that the relay was closed.
For example, the relay count will always be the same on Channels 01 and 21.
– You can reset the count (allowed only from remote) but the instrument must be
unsecured (see “To Unsecure for Calibration” on page 52 to unsecure the
instrument).
– For more information on relay life and load considerations, refer to “Relay Life
and Preventative Maintenance” in Chapter 8 of the 34970A/34972A User’s
Guide.
– A procedure to read the relay cycle count is given on page 58.

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 95


4 Calibration Procedures

(Optional) 34901A Relay Contact Resistance Verification


This optional procedure uses an external DMM to make 4-wire ohms
measurements across the relay contacts on the 34901A. The measured resistance
is the series resistance of the two relay contacts (both contacts are in the same
relay).

Be sure to read “Plug-in Module Test Considerations” on page 94.


NOTE

Tests 1 - 5:
See the diagram on page 97 for the required connections for each test (be sure to
probe the components at the indicated location). For these measurements, the
34901A is not installed in the 34970A/34972A. Record the 4-wire ohms
measurements from the external DMM in the table below.

The connections to the external DMM are different for each of Tests 1, 2, 4, and
NOTE 5. Be sure to verify the connections shown in the table below for each of the four
tests.

External DMM Ohmmeter Connections


Test # Measured Value
HI LO HI Sense LO Sense
1 L401 J101, C14 L401 J101, C14 _____________ Ohms
2 L402 J101, C15 L402 J101, C15 _____________ Ohms
3 Add (Test 1 + Test 2) _____________ Ohms
4 F501 C21 I F501 C21 I _____________ Ohms
5 F502 C22 I F502 C22 I _____________ Ohms

Connect bare copper wires (approximately 3 cm in length) to the I terminals of


NOTE Channels 21 and 22 as shown below. These wires will be used to make shorts
across the channels in Tests 6 through 39.

96 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Calibration Procedures 4

Note: Be sure to probe the components at


the indicated locations on the module.

Probe here
for L402
measurement.

Probe here for F501 measurement.


Probe here for F502 measurement.

Connections for 34901A Verification Tests 1 through 5

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 97


4 Calibration Procedures

Tests 6 - 8:
Make the connections to the 34901A as shown in the diagram below. Be sure to
route your wiring for proper strain relief and install the module cover. Install the
34901A in slot 200 of the 34970A/34972A. Open all channels on the module by
performing a Factory Reset (press and select “Recall State”; press
again and select “Factory Reset”). Configure Channel 20 as follows: DC volts, 10
volt range, and 5½ digits.

Channel 20 should be left open.

Connections for 34901A Verification Tests 6 through 39

98 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Calibration Procedures 4

Enable reading monitoring by pressing on the selected channel (or use the
ROUTe:MON command). Record the 4-wire ohms measurements from the external
DMM in the following table.

Channel External DMM Ohmmeter Connections Test


Test # Measured Value Relay Measured
Configured HI LO HI Sense LO Sense Limit

6 Ch 20 P2 P2 P1 P1 ________Ohms 2.00 W K421


7 Ch 20 P2 P2 P3 P3 ________Ohms — —
8 Subtract (Test 7 - Test 6) ________Ohms 2.00 W K422

Tests 9 - 10:
Open all channels on the module by performing a Factory Reset. Configure
Channel 10 (module in slot 200) as follows: 4-wire ohms, 1 kW range, and 5½
digits.

Enable reading monitoring by pressing on the selected channel (or use the
ROUTe:MON command). Record the 4-wire ohms measurements from the external
DMM in the following table.

Channel External DMM Ohmmeter Connections Test


Test # Measured Value Relay Measured
Configured HI LO HI Sense LO Sense Limit

9 Ch 10 P2 P2 P3 P3 ________Ohms — —
10 Subtract (Test 9 - Test 3) ________Ohms 2.00 W K423

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 99


4 Calibration Procedures

Tests 11- 33:


Open all channels on the module by performing a Factory Reset. For each test,
close only the channel shown in the “Channel Closed” column below (module in
slot 200). Turn the Monitor Mode “off” and select “Banks Joined” from the
Advanced menu. Record the 4-wire ohms measurements from the external DMM
in the following table.

Channel External DMM Ohmmeter Connections Test


Test # Measured Value Relay Measured
Closed[a] HI LO HI Sense LO Sense Limit

11 Ch1 P2 P2 P1 P1 ________Ohms 2.00 W K401


12 Ch 2 P2 P2 P1 P1 ________Ohms 2.00 W K402
13 Ch 3 P2 P2 P1 P1 ________Ohms 2.00 W K403
14 Ch 4 P2 P2 P1 P1 ________Ohms 2.00 W K404
15 Ch 5 P2 P2 P1 P1 ________Ohms 2.00 W K405
16 Ch 6 P2 P2 P1 P1 ________Ohms 2.00 W K406
17 Ch 7 P2 P2 P1 P1 ________Ohms 2.00 W K407
18 Ch 8 P2 P2 P1 P1 ________Ohms 2.00 W K408
19 Ch 9 P2 P2 P1 P1 ________Ohms 2.00 W K409
20 Ch 10 P2 P2 P1 P1 ________Ohms 2.00 W K410
21 Ch 11 P2 P2 P1 P1 ________Ohms 2.00 W K411
22 Ch 12 P2 P2 P1 P1 ________Ohms 2.00 W K412
23 Ch 13 P2 P2 P1 P1 ________Ohms 2.00 W K413
24 Ch 14 P2 P2 P1 P1 ________Ohms 2.00 W K414
25 Ch 15 P2 P2 P1 P1 ________Ohms 2.00 W K415
26 Ch 16 P2 P2 P1 P1 ________Ohms 2.00 W K416
27 Ch 17 P2 P2 P1 P1 ________Ohms 2.00 W K417
28 Ch 18 P2 P2 P1 P1 ________Ohms 2.00 W K418
29 Ch 19 P2 P2 P1 P1 ________Ohms 2.00 W K419
30 Ch 21 P4 P4 P5 P5 ________Ohms — —

100 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Calibration Procedures 4

Channel External DMM Ohmmeter Connections Test


Test # Measured Value Relay Measured
Closed[a] HI LO HI Sense LO Sense Limit

31 Subtract (Test 30 - Test 4) ________Ohms 2.00 W K522


32 Ch 22 P4 P4 P5 P5 ________Ohms — —
33 Subtract (Test 32 - Test 5) ________Ohms 2.00 W K522

[a] Only the channel currently under test should be closed at one time. All other channels should be open.

Tests 34 - 36:
Close only channels Channels 20 and 22. Remove the 34901A from the 34970A/
34972A and do not reinstall it for these tests.
On connector J101, remove the jumper between pins C14 and C15 (the top
jumper shown in the diagram on page 98). On the remaining jumper connected to
J101 (the bottom jumper shown in the diagram), move the end of the jumper from
pin C12 to pin C16; the jumper should now short pins C13 and C16 together.
Cut, but do not remove, the copper shorts on Channels 21 and 22 (the wires will
be used for the 4-wire ohms measurements below). Add a copper short between
the L and H terminals on Channel 20. Record the measured value as Test 34 in the
table below.
Using the external DMM, make a 4-wire ohms measurement between the L and I
terminals on Channel 21. Record the measured value as Test 35 in the table
below.

Channel External DMM Ohmmeter Connections Test


Test # Measured Value Relay Measured
Closed HI LO HI Sense LO Sense Limit

34 Ch 20[a] P3 P3 P2 P2 ________Ohms 2.00 W K420

35 Ch 22[a] Ch 21 I Ch 21 L Ch 21 I Ch 21 L ________Ohms — —

36 Subtract (Test 35 - Test 4) ________Ohms 2.00 W K523

[a] The latching relays remain closed when the module is removed from the 34970A/34972A.

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 101


4 Calibration Procedures

Test 37:
Install the 34901A in slot 200 of the 34970A/34972A. Select and configure
Channel 21 as follows: DC current, 1 amp range, and 5½ digits.

Enable reading monitoring by pressing on the selected channel (or use the
ROUTe:MON command). Record the 4-wire ohms measurement from the external
DMM in the following table.

Channel External DMM Ohmmeter Connections Test


Test # Measured Value Relay Measured
Configured HI LO HI Sense LO Sense Limit

37 Ch 21 P4 P4 P5 P5 ________Ohms 2.00 W K521

Tests 38 - 39:
Open all channels on the module by performing a Factory Reset. Close Channel
21 (module in slot 200). Remove the 34901A from the 34970A/34972A and do not
reinstall it for the remaining tests. Using the external DMM, make a 4-wire ohms
measurement between the L and I terminals on Channel 22. Record the measured
value as Test 38 in the following table.

Channel External DMM Ohmmeter Connections Test


Test # Measured Value Relay Measured
Closed HI LO HI Sense LO Sense Limit

38 Ch 21 Ch 22 I Ch 22 L Ch 22 I Ch 22 L ________Ohms — —
39 Subtract (Test 38 - Test 5) ________Ohms 2.00 W K524

102 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Calibration Procedures 4

(Optional) 34902A Relay Contact Resistance Verification


This optional procedure uses an external DMM to make 4-wire ohms
measurements across the relay contacts on the 34902A. The measured resistance
is the series resistance of the two relay contacts (both contacts are in the same
relay).

Be sure to read “Plug-in Module Test Considerations” on page 94.


NOTE

Tests 1 - 4:
See the diagram on page 104 for the required connections for each test (be sure
to probe the components at the indicated location). For these measurements, the
34902A is not installed in the 34970A/34972A. Record the 4-wire ohms
measurements from the external DMM in the table below.

The connections to the external DMM are different for each of Tests 1, 2, and 3.
NOTE Be sure to verify the connections shown in the table below for each of the three
tests.

External DMM Ohmmeter Connections


Test # Measured Value
HI LO HI Sense LO Sense
1 L300 J101, C12 L300 J101, C12 _____________ Ohms
2 L301 J101, C14 L301 J101, C14 _____________ Ohms
3 L302 J101, C15 L302 J101, C15 _____________ Ohms
4 Add (Test 2 + Test 3) _____________ Ohms

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 103


4 Calibration Procedures

Probe here for


L302 and L301
measurements.

Connections for 34902A Verification Tests 1 through 4

104 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Calibration Procedures 4

Tests 5 - 8:
Make the connections to the 34902A as shown in the diagram below. Be sure to
route your wiring for proper strain relief and install the module cover. Install the
34902A in slot 200 of the 34970A/34972A. Open all channels on the module by
performing a Factory Reset (press and select “Recall State”; press
again and select “Factory Reset”). Configure Channel 16 as follows: DC volts, 10
volt range, and 5½ digits.

Connections for 34902A Verification Tests 5 through 27

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 105


4 Calibration Procedures

Enable reading monitoring by pressing on the selected channel (or use the
ROUTe:MON command). Record the 4-wire ohms measurements from the external
DMM in the following table.

Channel External DMM Ohmmeter Connections Test


Test # Measured Value Relay Measured
Configured HI LO HI Sense LO Sense Limit

5 Ch 16 P3 P3 P1 P1 ________Ohms — —
6 Subtract (Test 5 - Test 1) ________Ohms 2.00 W K326
7 Ch 16 P3 P3 P2 P2 ________Ohms — —
8 Subtract (Test 7 - Test 5) 2.00 W K327

Tests 9 - 10:
Open all channels on the module by performing a Factory Reset. Configure
Channel 08 (module in slot 200) as follows: 4-wire ohms, 1 kW range, and 5½
digits.

Enable reading monitoring by pressing on the selected channel (or use the
ROUTe:MON command). Record the 4-wire ohms measurements from the external
DMM in the following table.

Channel External DMM Ohmmeter Connections Test


Test # Measured Value Relay Measured
Configured HI LO HI Sense LO Sense Limit

9 Ch 08 P3 P3 P2 P2 ________Ohms — —
10 Subtract (Test 9 - Test 4 ________Ohms 2.00 W K328

106 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Calibration Procedures 4

Tests 11 - 27:
Open all channels on the module by performing a Factory Reset. For each test,
close only the channels shown in the “Channels Closed” column below (module in
slot 200). Turn the Monitor Mode “off” and select “Banks Joined” from the
Advanced menu. Record the 4-wire ohms measurements from the external DMM
in the following table.

Channel External DMM Ohmmeter Connections Test


Test # Measured Value Relay Measured
Closed[a] HI LO HI Sense LO Sense Limit

11 Ch 16 & 1 P3 P3 P1 P1 ________Ohms 2.00 W K301


12 Ch 16 & 2 P3 P3 P1 P1 ________Ohms 2.00 W K302
13 Ch 16 & 3 P3 P3 P1 P1 ________Ohms 2.00 W K303
14 Ch 16 & 4 P3 P3 P1 P1 ________Ohms 2.00 W K304
15 Ch 16 & 5 P3 P3 P1 P1 ________Ohms 2.00 W K305
16 Ch 16 & 6 P3 P3 P1 P1 ________Ohms 2.00 W K306
17 Ch 16 & 7 P3 P3 P1 P1 ________Ohms 2.00 W K307
18 Ch 16 & 8 P3 P3 P1 P1 ________Ohms 2.00 W K308
19 Ch 16 & 9 P3 P3 P1 P1 ________Ohms 2.00 W K309
20 Ch 16 & 10 P3 P3 P1 P1 ________Ohms 2.00 W K310
21 Ch 16 & 11 P3 P3 P1 P1 ________Ohms 2.00 W K311
22 Ch 16 & 12 P3 P3 P1 P1 ________Ohms 2.00 W K312
23 Ch 16 & 13 P3 P3 P1 P1 ________Ohms 2.00 W K313
24 Ch 16 & 14 P3 P3 P1 P1 ________Ohms 2.00 W K314
25 Ch 16 & 15 P3 P3 P1 P1 ________Ohms 2.00 W K315
26 Ch 16 & 15 P3 P3 P4 P4 ________Ohms 2.00 W —
27 Subtract (Test 26 - Test 25) ________Ohms 2.00 W K316

[a] Only the channel currently under test should be closed at one time. All other channels should be open.

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 107


4 Calibration Procedures

(Optional) 34903A Relay Contact Resistance Verification


1 Be sure to read “Plug-in Module Test Considerations” on page 94.
2 Install the 34903A module in slot 100. Close Channels 01 through 20. Remove
the module from the 34970A/34972A.
3 Measure the resistance from the CM terminal to the NO terminal on each
channel.
4 Install the module in slot 100. Open Channel 01 through 20. Remove the
module from the 34970A/34972A.
5 Measure the resistance from the CM terminal to the NC terminal on each
channel.

In general, a new relay should have a contact resistance of less than 0.2 W.
NOTE Relays with contact resistance in excess of 1.2 W should be replaced.

108 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Calibration Procedures 4

(Optional) 34904A Relay Contact Resistance Verification


This optional procedure uses an external DMM to make 4-wire ohms
measurements across the relay contacts on the 34904A.
1 Be sure to read “Plug-in Module Test Considerations” on page 94.
2 Connect coppers shorts from H to L on each of the eight columns (COL1
through COL8) as shown below. Connect four dual banana plugs to the four
rows as shown below (ROW1 through ROW4). Be sure to route your wiring for
proper strain relief and install the module cover. Install the 34904A in slot 200
of the 34970A/34972A.

Connections for 34904A Verification Tests

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 109


4 Calibration Procedures

Tests 1 - 32:
Open all channels on the module by performing a Factory Reset (press and
select “Recall State”; press again and select “Factory Reset”). For each
test, close only the channels shown in the “Channels Closed” column below
(module in slot 200). Record the 4-wire ohms measurements from the external
DMM in the following table.

To prepare the module between tests, press and hold down until “Card
NOTE
Reset” is displayed on the front panel.

Channel External DMM Ohmmeter Connections Test


Test # Measured Value Relay Measured
Closed[a] HI LO HI Sense LO Sense Limit

1 Ch 11 & 41 P1 P1 P4 P4 ________Ohms 2.00 W K101


2 Ch 12 & 42 P1 P1 P4 P4 ________Ohms 2.00 W K102
3 Ch 13 & 43 P1 P1 P4 P4 ________Ohms 2.00 W K103
4 Ch 14 & 44 P1 P1 P4 P4 ________Ohms 2.00 W K104
5 Ch 15 & 45 P1 P1 P4 P4 ________Ohms 2.00 W K105
6 Ch 16 & 46 P1 P1 P4 P4 ________Ohms 2.00 W K106
7 Ch 17 & 47 P1 P1 P4 P4 ________Ohms 2.00 W K107
8 Ch 18 & 48 P1 P1 P4 P4 ________Ohms 2.00 W K108
9 Ch 21 & 41 P2 P2 P4 P4 ________Ohms 2.00 W K201
10 Ch 22 & 42 P2 P2 P4 P4 ________Ohms 2.00 W K202
11 Ch 23 & 43 P2 P2 P4 P4 ________Ohms 2.00 W K203
12 Ch 24 & 44 P2 P2 P4 P4 ________Ohms 2.00 W K204
13 Ch 25 & 45 P2 P2 P4 P4 ________Ohms 2.00 W K205
14 Ch 26 & 46 P2 P2 P4 P4 ________Ohms 2.00 W K206
15 Ch 27 & 47 P2 P2 P4 P4 ________Ohms 2.00 W K207
16 Ch 28 & 48 P2 P2 P4 P4 ________Ohms 2.00 W K208

110 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Calibration Procedures 4

Channel External DMM Ohmmeter Connections Test


Test # Measured Value Relay Measured
Closed[a] HI LO HI Sense LO Sense Limit

17 Ch 31 & 41 P3 P3 P4 P4 ________Ohms 2.00 W K301


18 Ch 32 & 42 P3 P3 P4 P4 ________Ohms 2.00 W K302
19 Ch 33 & 43 P3 P3 P4 P4 ________Ohms 2.00 W K303
20 Ch 34 & 44 P3 P3 P4 P4 ________Ohms 2.00 W K304
21 Ch 35 & 45 P3 P3 P4 P4 ________Ohms 2.00 W K305
22 Ch 36 & 46 P3 P3 P4 P4 ________Ohms 2.00 W K306
23 Ch 37 & 47 P3 P3 P4 P4 ________Ohms 2.00 W K307
24 Ch 38 & 48 P3 P3 P4 P4 ________Ohms 2.00 W K308
25 Ch 41 & 11 P4 P4 P1 P1 ________Ohms 2.00 W K401
26 Ch 42 & 12 P4 P4 P1 P1 ________Ohms 2.00 W K402
27 Ch 43 & 13 P4 P4 P1 P1 ________Ohms 2.00 W K403
28 Ch 44 & 14 P4 P4 P1 P1 ________Ohms 2.00 W K404
29 Ch 45 & 15 P4 P4 P1 P1 ________Ohms 2.00 W K405
30 Ch 46 & 16 P4 P4 P1 P1 ________Ohms 2.00 W K406
31 Ch 47 & 17 P4 P4 P1 P1 ________Ohms 2.00 W K407
32 Ch 48 & 18 P4 P4 P1 P1 ________Ohms 2.00 W K408

[a] Only the channel currently under test should be closed at one time. All other channels should be open.

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 111


4 Calibration Procedures

(Optional) 34905/06A Relay Contact Resistance Verification


Be sure to use the correct SMB connectors (50 W or 75 W).
NOTE

1 Be sure to read “Plug-in Module Test Considerations” on page 94.


2 Prepare the module by connecting an SMB short to CH10, CH11, CH12, and
CH13. Connect the COM1 terminal to the DMM. Be sure to use the correct
SMB connectors for the module.
3 Install the module in slot 100.
4 Close Channel 11.
5 Measure the resistance on the DMM.
6 Repeat steps 4 and 5 for Channels 12, 13, and 14.
7 Repeat steps 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 for the channels connected to COM2.

In general, a new relay should have a contact resistance of less than 0.5 W.
NOTE Relays with contact resistance in excess of 1 W should be replaced.

112 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Calibration Procedures 4

(Optional) 34908A Relay Contact Resistance Verification


This optional procedure uses an external DMM to make 4-wire ohms
measurements across the relay contacts on the 34908A. Note that when
measuring the resistance of the contacts of the channels relays, the test also
includes the Bank Switch.

Be sure to read “Plug-in Module Test Considerations” on page 94.


NOTE

Test 1:
See the diagram on page 114 for the required connections for this test (be sure to
probe the inductor at the indicated location). For this measurement, the 34908A is
not installed in the 34970A/34972A. Record the
4-wire ohms measurements from the external DMM in the table below.

External DMM Ohmmeter Connections


Test # Measured Value
HI LO HI Sense LO Sense
1 L400 J101, C12 L400 J101, C12 _____________ Ohms

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 113


4 Calibration Procedures

Note: Be sure to
probe from the
right-hand side
of the inductor.

Connections for 34908A Verification Test 1

114 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Calibration Procedures 4

Tests 2 - 3:
Make the connections to the 34908A as shown in the diagram below. Be sure to
route your wiring for proper strain relief and install the module cover. Install the
34908A in slot 200 of the 34970A/34972A. Open all channels on the module by
performing a Factory Reset (press and select “Recall State”; press
again and select “Factory Reset”). Configure Channel 01 as follows: DC volts, 10
volt range, and 5½ digits.

Connections for 34908A Verification Tests 2 and 3

Enable reading monitoring by pressing on the selected channel (or use the
ROUTe:MON command). Record the 4-wire ohms measurements from the external
DMM in the following table.

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 115


4 Calibration Procedures

Channel External DMM Ohmmeter Connections Test


Test # Measured Value Relay Measured
Configured HI LO HI Sense LO Sense Limit

2 Ch 01 H Com L Com H Com L Com ________Ohms — —


3 Subtract (Test 2 - Test 1) ________Ohms 2.00 W K421

Tests 4 - 43:
Make the connections to the 34908A as shown in the diagram below. Connect
copper shorts between all channels as shown. Be sure to route your wiring for
proper strain relief and install the module cover. Install the 34908A in slot 200 of
the 34970A/34972A.

Connections for 34908A Verification Tests 4 through 43

116 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Calibration Procedures 4

For each test shown in the table starting on the next page, close only the
channels shown in the “Channels Closed” column (closing one channel will open
the previously closed channel). Record the 4-wire ohms measurements from the
external DMM in the table.

Channel External DMM Ohmmeter Connections Test


Test # Measured Value Relay Measured
Closed[a] HI LO HI Sense LO Sense Limit

4 Ch 1 H Com L Com H Com L Com ________Ohms 2.00 W K401, K422


5 Ch 2 H Com L Com H Com L Com ________Ohms 2.00 W K402, K422
6 Ch 3 H Com L Com H Com L Com ________Ohms 2.00 W K403, K422
7 Ch 4 H Com L Com H Com L Com ________Ohms 2.00 W K404, K422
8 Ch 5 H Com L Com H Com L Com ________Ohms 2.00 W K405, K422
9 Ch 6 H Com L Com H Com L Com ________Ohms 2.00 W K406, K422
10 Ch 7 H Com L Com H Com L Com ________Ohms 2.00 W K407, K422
11 Ch 8 H Com L Com H Com L Com ________Ohms 2.00 W K408, K422
12 Ch 9 H Com L Com H Com L Com ________Ohms 2.00 W K409, K422
13 Ch 10 H Com L Com H Com L Com ________Ohms 2.00 W K410, K422
14 Ch 11 H Com L Com H Com L Com ________Ohms 2.00 W K411, K422
15 Ch 12 H Com L Com H Com L Com ________Ohms 2.00 W K412, K422
16 Ch 13 H Com L Com H Com L Com ________Ohms 2.00 W K413, K422
17 Ch 14 H Com L Com H Com L Com ________Ohms 2.00 W K414, K422
18 Ch 15 H Com L Com H Com L Com ________Ohms 2.00 W K415, K422
19 Ch 16 H Com L Com H Com L Com ________Ohms 2.00 W K416, K422
20 Ch 17 H Com L Com H Com L Com ________Ohms 2.00 W K417, K422
21 Ch 18 H Com L Com H Com L Com ________Ohms 2.00 W K418, K422
22 Ch 19 H Com L Com H Com L Com ________Ohms 2.00 W K419, K422
23 Ch 20 H Com L Com H Com L Com ________Ohms 2.00 W K420, K422
24 Ch 21 H Com L Com H Com L Com ________Ohms 2.00 W K401, K422
25 Ch 22 H Com L Com H Com L Com ________Ohms 2.00 W K402, K422

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 117


4 Calibration Procedures

Channel External DMM Ohmmeter Connections Test


Test # Measured Value Relay Measured
Closed[a] HI LO HI Sense LO Sense Limit

26 Ch 23 H Com L Com H Com L Com ________Ohms 2.00 W K403, K422


27 Ch 24 H Com L Com H Com L Com ________Ohms 2.00 W K404, K422
28 Ch 25 H Com L Com H Com L Com ________Ohms 2.00 W K405, K422
29 Ch 26 H Com L Com H Com L Com ________Ohms 2.00 W K406, K422
30 Ch 27 H Com L Com H Com L Com ________Ohms 2.00 W K407, K422
31 Ch 28 H Com L Com H Com L Com ________Ohms 2.00 W K408, K422
32 Ch 29 H Com L Com H Com L Com ________Ohms 2.00 W K409, K422
33 Ch 30 H Com L Com H Com L Com ________Ohms 2.00 W K410, K422
34 Ch 31 H Com L Com H Com L Com ________Ohms 2.00 W K411, K422
35 Ch 32 H Com L Com H Com L Com ________Ohms 2.00 W K412, K422
36 Ch 33 H Com L Com H Com L Com ________Ohms 2.00 W K413, K422
37 Ch 34 H Com L Com H Com L Com ________Ohms 2.00 W K414, K422
38 Ch 35 H Com L Com H Com L Com ________Ohms 2.00 W K415, K422
39 Ch 36 H Com L Com H Com L Com ________Ohms 2.00 W K416, K422
40 Ch 37 H Com L Com H Com L Com ________Ohms 2.00 W K417, K422
41 Ch 38 H Com L Com H Com L Com ________Ohms 2.00 W K418, K422
42 Ch 39 H Com L Com H Com L Com ________Ohms 2.00 W K419, K422
43 Ch 40 H Com L Com H Com L Com ________Ohms 2.00 W K420, K422

[a] Only the channel currently under test should be closed at one time. All other channels should be open.

If the first 20 or last 20 relays have high resistance values, it is likely that relay
NOTE K422 is bad.

118 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Calibration Procedures 4

Thermocouple Reference Junction (Optional)


You should perform these verification and adjustments if you are using the
NOTE modules for thermocouple measurements.

To make a thermocouple measurement a known reference junction temperature


measurement must be made. The reference junction temperature is measured by
two solid state temperature sensors in the input connection area on the module.
The adjustments store calibration constants used to correct the measurements
from the temperature sensors.
Thermocouple measurements are supported by only the 34901A, 34902A and
34908A.

Thermocouple Reference Junction Verification


1 Read “Plug-in Module Test Considerations” on page 94.
2 Connect a calibrated thermocouple with an accuracy of 0.1 °C or better to one
of the following channels:
For the 34901A: Channel 10
For the 34902A: Channel 8
For the 34908A: Channel 10
3 Install the module in slot 100.
4 Place the J Type calibrated thermocouple at a known temperature (ice bath or
calibrator).
5 Select Channel 110 (or 108). Configure the channel as follows:
TEMPERATURE
THERMOCOUPLE
J TYPE
INTEG 10 PLC (Advanced menu)
INTERNAL REF (Advanced menu)

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 119


4 Calibration Procedures

Before executing each test, you must press to enable reading monitoring on
the selected channel (or use the ROUTe:MON command from the remote interface).
6 Subtract the thermocouple error from the displayed temperature. Verify the
result is within ± 1.0 °C of the known temperature (set in step 4).

Thermocouple Reference Junction Adjustments


These adjustments are plug-in module specific and only affect thermocouple
measurements. The calibration constants created by these adjustments are stored
in non-volatile memory on the plug-in module.
1 Connect a 10 kW (YSI 44031) thermistor to each of the following channels (a kit
of five thermistors is available as Keysight part number 34308A):
For the 34901A Channels 6 and 17
For the 34902A Channels 6 and 11
For the 34908A Channels 6 and 16
Keep the thermistor leads as short as possible. Locate the thermistor as near
to the input connectors as possible.

34901A

120 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Calibration Procedures 4

2 Install the plug-in module in the mainframe in slot 200. Apply power and allow
a 2 hour warm-up.
3 Set 10 kW thermistor measurements on Channels 206 and 217 (or 206 and
211). Before executing each test, you must press to enable reading
monitoring on the selected channel (or use the ROUTe:MON command from the
remote interface).

4 Press to enter the calibration menu. Press again to begin the


adjustment procedure.
5 Verify the adjustment (see page 119).

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 121


4 Calibration Procedures

34907A Analog Output

Analog Output Verification Test


This procedure is used to check the calibration of the analog outputs on the
34907A Multifunction Module. Install the module in slot 200. Verification checks
are performed only for those output values with unique calibration constants.
1 Make connections to analog output channels as shown below.

To DMM

34907A

To
DMM

122 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Calibration Procedures 4

2 For each analog output, set each output value in the table below. Compare
measurement results to the appropriate test limits shown in the table.

DAC Output Quick Check Measured Output Error from Nominal 1 year
0.000 V 0.000 V ± 20 mV
10.000 V Q 10.000 V ± 45 mV

Analog Output Adjustment


Install the 34907A module in the mainframe and allow a 45 minute warm-up
NOTE before performing these procedures.

This adjustment procedure sets a zero adjustment and a gain adjustment


constant for each DAC output. You must perform all the adjustments on one
analog output channel before adjusting the other analog output channel.
1 Install the module in slot 100. Select the first analog output channel (104).
2 Connect an external DMM to the output terminals.
3 Set the analog output to 00.000 V.

4 Press to enter the calibration menu. Press again to begin the


adjustment procedure.
5 Use the knob, and to set the number in the display to the measured
output value and press to complete the adjustment.
6 Set the analog output to 10.000 V.

7 Press to enter the calibration menu. Press again to begin the


adjustment procedure.
8 Use the knob, and to set the number in the display to the measured
output value and press to complete the adjustment.
9 Repeat steps 1 through 8 for Channel 105.
10 Perform the Voltage Output Verification Test on page 110 to verify the
adjustment.

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 123


4 Calibration Procedures

THIS PAGE HAS BEEN INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK.

124 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Keysight 34970A/34972A Data Acquisition/Switch Unit
Service Guide

5 Theory of Operation
Theory of Operation 126
System Block Diagram 127
Floating Logic 128
Memory 131
Earth-Referenced Logic 132
Power Supplies 133
Front Panel 135
Backplane 136
Internal DMM 137
Switch Modules 146
Multifunction Module 162

125
5 Theory of Operation

Theory of Operation
This chapter is organized to provide descriptions of the circuitry contained on
each schematic shown in Chapter 8 of the 34970A/34972A User’s Guide. A block
diagram overview is provided.
– “System Block Diagram” on page 127
– “Floating Logic” on page 128
– “Memory” on page 131
– “Earth-Referenced Logic” on page 132
– “Power Supplies” on page 133
– “Front Panel” on page 135
– “Backplane” on page 136
– “Internal DMM” on page 137
– “Switch Modules” on page 146
– “Multifunction Module” on page 162
The self-test procedures are described in Chapter 6.

126 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Theory of Operation 5

System Block Diagram


A simplified block diagram is shown below. Not all systems have an Internal DMM.
In these systems, the internal DMM connections to the analog bus and the
floating logic are left open. The major portions of each block are described in the
following sections.

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 127


5 Theory of Operation

Floating Logic
Unless otherwise noted, components in this discussion are located on the A1
circuit assembly (34970-66501).
The floating common logic controls the operation of the entire instrument. All
measurement control and remote interface command interpretation is performed
in the main controller, U205. The front panel controller, the I/O controller, and all
of the plug-in module controllers, act as slaves to U205. The floating common
logic is comprised of the main controller U205, custom ASIC U209, calibration
memory U201, 12 MHz clock oscillator U204, and microprocessor supervisor
U104.
The microprocessor supervisor U104 performs the following functions:
– Monitors the regulated 5V floating supply and generates the reset signal for
main controller U205 when the voltage drops below operating levels.
– Monitors the unregulated side of the 5V floating supply in order to generate an
early warning signal (PWRFAIL) when power is lost.
– Provides automatic switch over to the battery BT101 for the +5V_NV supply
when the 5V_FLT supply drops below the battery voltage.
– Blocks the main controller’s write signal (WR_N) while the 5V_FLT supply is
below operating level.

128 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Theory of Operation 5

The main controller, U205, is a 16-bit microcontroller incorporating many built-in


features:
– A 10-bit, successive approximation ADC with selectable inputs is used to
convert two signals: FLASH and FRQRNG. The FLASH signal is the residual
charge on the main integrating ADC output from the internal DMM assembly
(A4). The FRQRNG signal (also from the internal DMM) is used to make voltage
ranging decisions for frequency and period measurements.
– A pulse-width-modulation port, after filtering the 23 kHz output with
R221,C224, and R259, produces DC voltages between 0V and 5V. This
voltage, PREADJ, is used to adjust the precharge amplifier offset voltage in
U101 on the internal DMM assembly (A4).
– A full, UART controlled, serial port is used to communicate with the
I/O processor through opto-isolators U303 and U214. Data is sent in an 11-bit
frame at a rate of 187.5 kbits/second. The 11-bit frame is configured for one
start bit, nine data bits, and one stop bit.
– A timer is used to measure the power line frequency on LSENSE. Frequencies
between 55 Hz and 66 Hz result in the use of a 60 Hz standard for the DMM
integration period. All other frequencies will result in the use of a 50 Hz
standard.
– A 16-bit counter counts pulses on CNT to create, along with the 8-bit counter
in U209, a 24-bit counter for the internal DMM.

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 129


5 Theory of Operation

The custom ASIC, U209, provides:


– Memory Address mapping – The main controller multiplexes address and data
on the same bus. U209 latches the address and drives a separate memory
address bus (MA(19:1)). U209 allows the main controller to access a much
larger memory space than its 16-bit address bus would allow. It also partitions
memory into separate data and instruction segments and a “mappable”
segment that can be used for either data or instructions.
– Communications – U209 provides three serial communication ports. A 187.5
kbit/second, 9 data bit, UART for communicating with the isolated backplane
(FLT_BPDO and FLT_BPDI_N). A duplicate, 9-bit UART to communicate with
the front panel (FPDO and FPDI). And a simple, 1.5 Mbit/second, clocked
shift-register to control the configuration registers on the DMM assembly
(CFG_SCK, CFG_DO, and CFG_DI).
– Real Time Clock – U209 provides time of day and date, a periodic interrupt,
and a squarewave generator. The date is based on a 100 year calendar (it
accurately tracks leap years until its two digit year counter rolls over). U209
uses the battery-backed +5V_NV supply.
– DMM support – U209 provides conversion logic for the analog-to-digital
converter and a counter for both the ADC and the frequency measurement
features of the DMM. When used for the ADC, the COMP input functions both
as a clocked comparator and the slope counter input. When used for
frequency measurement, FREQIN is the input to the counter. In both cases, the
8-bit counter produces the lower bits of a 24-bit counter. The counter overflow
signal, CNT, is counted by U205 to produce the upper 16-bits of the count. The
SYNC signal produced by U205, is used to latch the count.
Device U201 is a 512 byte, ferroelectric RAM that is accessed via a serial
interface. This device only contains data relevant to the A1 assembly. This data is
combined with data retrieved from A4U450 to completely calibrate the internal
DMM. The two devices, although on different assemblies, share the same I/O
signals, CALSCK and CALDAT, that allow them to be read (and written) by U205.

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Theory of Operation 5

Memory
Unless otherwise noted, components in this discussion are located on the A1
circuit assembly (34970-66501).
The main controller, U205, uses 512 Kbytes of ROM and 544 Kbytes of RAM. ASIC
U209 provides the memory mapping that allows access to this large memory
space. The memory map as seen by the main controller is as follows:

Address Maps to
0100H thru 1FBFH 00100H thru 01FBFH in RAM for data fetches
0100H thru 1FBFH 00100H thru 01FBFH in ROM for instrument fetches
1FC0H thru 1FDFH registers in U209
2000H thru 5FFFH 02000H thru 05FFFH in ROM
6000H thru 7FFFH 06000H thru 07FFFH in RAM for data fetches
6000H thru 7FFFH 06000H thru 07FFFH in ROM for instrument fetches
8000H thru FFFFH any selected 32 Kbyte page of ROM or RAM

The memory is organized with a 16-bit data bus (AD(15:0)) and a 19-bit address
bus (MA(19:1)). The memory address is produced by U209 latching the address
present on AD(15:0) when U205 asserts ALE_FLT. Reads of memory are always
16-bits wide (there is a single RD_N signal). Writes, however, can be byte-wide
and therefore U209 produces both a high-byte write strobe, MWRH_N, and a
low-byte write strobe, MWRL_N. These write signals are based on the latched
0-bit of the address and the BHE_N signal produced by the main controller, U205.
The ROM memory consists of a single, 256Kx16 device, U401. The RAM memory
consists of five devices: U402, U403, U404, U405, and U410. A uniform, 256Kx16,
memory block is formed by the four 128Kx8 devices, U402 through U405. A
separate, 32Kx8 block is formed by U410 and is available through special
programming of U209.

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5 Theory of Operation

Earth-Referenced Logic
Unless otherwise noted, components in this discussion are located on the A1
circuit assembly (34970-66501).
The earth-referenced logic circuits provide all rear panel input/output capability.
Microprocessor U305 handles GPIB (IEEE-488) control through bus interface chip
U309 and bus receiver/driver chips U310 and U311.
The RS-232 interface is controlled by U305 through U307. RS-232 transceiver
chip U308 provides the required level shifting to approximate ± 9 volt logic levels
through on-chip charge-pump power supplies using capacitors C317 through
C320. Communication between the earth referenced logic interface circuits and
the floating measurement logic is accomplished through an optically-isolated
bi-directional serial interface. Isolator U214 couples data from U305 to
microprocessor U205. Isolator U303 couples data from U305 to microprocessor
U205.
U305 also:
– Controls power to the backplane as well as all rear panel interfaces (GPIB,
RS-232, Alarms, External Triggers). Backplane power is turned on or off based
upon commands received from U205.
– Drives the backplane reset signal (BPRST) based upon commands from U205.
– Monitors the backplane service request (BPSRQ_N) and reports to U205 when
it is asserted.
U306B, U306C, U306D, and U306E drive the alarm outputs. The alarm is a low
true signal at the sub miniature D connector on the rear panel. U306F drives the
channel closed output signal.
The external trigger input is buffered by U304C and U304D.

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Theory of Operation 5

Power Supplies
Unless otherwise noted, components in this discussion are located on the A1
circuit assembly (34970-66501).
The instrument uses two types of power supplies: floating supplies and earth
referenced supplies. The floating supply outputs are ±18 VDC, +5 VDC, and a 6
Vrms center tapped filament supply for the vacuum fluorescent display. The earth
referenced and backplane circuits are powered from a single +5 VDC supply.
The AC mains are connected by module P1. This module includes the functions of
mains connection and line voltage selection (100/120/ 220/240). The internal
DMM automatically configures for the applied line frequency by counting the
frequency of the output of clamp circuit CR106, R102, C103 (LSENSE).
The +5 volt floating supply is produced by bridge rectifier CR105, filter capacitor
C104, and regulator U103. The output of CR105 is sensed by U104 and compared
to the voltage from battery BT101. U104 turns on the +5 V floating supply through
Q120. If the output of CR105 falls below 6.8 V, U104 provides a PWRFAIL signal to
the main processor. At initial power on, U104 resets the main processor with the
FLT_RST line. This supply powers all floating logic. The internal DMM relay drive
circuits are also powered from this supply.
The floating ±18 volt supplies are produced by bridge rectifier CR109, filter
capacitors C107 and C109, and regulators U105 and U106. These supplies are
used to power all measuring circuits. In addition, the vacuum fluorescent display
is driven from the ±18 volt supplies.
A separate winding of T1 provides a center tapped 6 Vrms filament supply for the
display. Q110A and Q110B turn on and off the filament supply in response to the
FILPWR signal from the main controller through U107A.

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5 Theory of Operation

The 5 volt earth referenced supply (+5V_ER) is produced by rectifier CR101,


CR102, CR103, CR104, and regulator U101. This supply is earth referenced by the
screw which mounts the PC board to the instrument chassis.
The unswitched +5V_ER supplies U305, U303, U320, and U302. The rear-panel
interfaces (GPIB, RS-232, Alarms, and external triggers) are powered from the
switched +5V_BP supply to ensure that when power is turned off no voltages are
present at the interfaces.
The +5V_ER supply is switched by Q101A and Q101B to create the +5V_BP
(backplane) and fan power supplies.
Undervoltage sensor U102 provides the earth reference controller reset at initial
power on.

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Theory of Operation 5

Front Panel
Unless otherwise noted, components in this discussion are located on the A2
circuit assembly (34970-66502).
The front-panel circuits consist of vacuum fluorescent display control, display high
voltage drivers, and keyboard scanning. Communication between the front panel
and floating logic circuits is accomplished through a 2-wire bi-directional serial
interface. The front-panel logic operates from -13 volts (logic 1) and -18 volts
(logic 0). The two serial communication signals are level shifted by comparator U6
from the floating logic 0 V to 5 V levels to the -18 V to -13 V levels present on the
front panel assembly. The front panel logic high supply (-13 volts) is produced
from the -18 volt supply by voltage regulator U7.
Display anode and grid voltages are +18 volts for an on segment and -18 volts for
an off segment. The -11 V cathode bias for the display is provided by the main pc
boards filament winding center tap bias circuit A1CR108, A1R106, and A1C106.
Keyboard scanning is accomplished through a conventional scanned row-column
key matrix. Keys are scanned by outputting data at microprocessor U1 port pins
P0.0 through P0.4 to poll each key column for a key press. Column read-back data
are read by the microprocessor at port pins P2.0 through P2.3 for decoding and
communication to the floating logic circuits. Rotary knob quadrature inputs are
read directly by the microprocessor port pins P2.6 and P2.7.
The standby power switch, S19, provides a low true signal to main controller
A1U205. In turn, A1U205 takes actions that either place the instrument in the
“standby mode” or “on” mode. In “standby”, both the filament supply to the front
panel and the +5V_BP supply to the backplane, rear panel interfaces, and fan are
turned off.

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5 Theory of Operation

Backplane
Unless otherwise noted, components in this discussion are located on the A3
circuit assembly (34970-66503).
The backplane contains three connectors, P101, P102, and P103 for connection to
the plug-in modules. The parallel lines in these connectors are divided into two
groups to form the analog bus and digital bus.

Analog Bus
The analog bus connects the signals from the plug-in modules to the Internal
DMM. There are five lines in the analog bus, HI, LO, OHMS_HI, OHMS_LO, and
AMPS. The HI and LO lines are protected from overvoltages by E101, E102,
RV101, RV102, R101, R160, L101, L102, and C109.
P105 makes the analog bus connection to the internal DMM.

Digital Bus
The digital bus uses 10 lines for communication and control. P104 makes the
digital bus connection to the earth referenced logic and floating logic.

Signal P101, P102, P103 Pins Comments


Slot ID A6, A7, A8 Unique binary code for each slot.
DATA_IN B6 Serial module data from the floating logic.
DATA_OUT C6 Serial module data to the floating logic.
DGND A5, B5, B7, C5, C7 Earth referenced digital ground.
+5 V A3, B3, C3 Earth referenced module power supply.
Earth Ground A1, B1, C1 Earth referenced zap return ground.
RST B8 Module reset from the earth referenced logic.
SRQ C8 Module service request to the earth referenced logic.

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Theory of Operation 5

Internal DMM

DMM Block Diagram


A portion of the internal DMM block diagram is shown below.

Backplane

Main Controller

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5 Theory of Operation

Input
Unless otherwise noted, components in this discussion are located on the A4
circuit assembly (34970-66504).
The purpose of the Input section is to connect the Input HI terminal to the various
measuring functions. This is accomplished through K102, K103, and K104.
Additionally, connections are made for the 4-wire ohms
HI Sense and LO Sense inputs. Shunt selection (ranging) and voltage sensing are
also performed for the current function. The table below shows the state of each
relay for each measuring function. All relay coils are driven from U150.

Functional K102 K103 K104 Sense at:

0.1 V - 10 VDC Set Set Set[a] U101-5


100 V - 300 VDC Set Reset Set U102-12
2-Wire Ohms Reset Set Reset[b] U101-5[c]
4-Wire Ohms Reset Set Reset[b]
AC Voltage Set Reset Reset AC_IN
Frequency/Period Set Reset Reset AC_IN
3 A, 1A DCI Reset Reset Reset U101-10
100 mA, 10 mA DCI Set Reset Reset U101-10
1A AC I Reset Reset Set AC_IN

[a] K104 will be reset when input resistance is selected to >10,000 MW through the menu.
[b] K104 will be set for the 100 MW range.
[c] Configurations shown are for the current source output (HI) terminal. The measurement sense is accomplished
through the Sense HI / Sense LO terminals.

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Theory of Operation 5

Input Amplifier
Unless otherwise noted, components in this discussion are located on the A4
circuit assembly (34970-66504).
The DC Amplifier circuit is used by every measuring function except frequency and
period. Analog switch U101B selects various input signals for measurement by the
ADC. Switch U101B has three sources which can be dynamically selected:
measure customer input (MC), measure zero input (MZ), and precharge (PRE). The
MC state is the actual input measurement. The MZ state measures internal offset
voltages which are also present in the MC measurement. The final measurement
result is computed from MC–MZ. The PRE state is used to “precharge” internal
capacitances to reduce charge injection to the input terminal from the dynamic
switching of MC and MZ. Autozero off disables the dynamic switching of the
amplifier input. However, a new MZ value is automatically taken whenever a new
function or range is selected, even if autozero is turned off.
In the DC voltage function, ranging is accomplished through both input relay
switching (K102–K104) and solid state switching (U101). As a result, the input to
the ADC has the same nominal 10 V value for a full scale input on each range. The
DC input amplifier is comprised of source follower dual FET U104, amplifier U106,
and associated bias circuitry. The feedback resistors U102C and switches U101C
select non-inverting amplifier gains of x1, x10, and x100 for the DC input amplifier
circuit. Amplifier output ADIN drives the DC input to the a-to-d converter for all
measuring functions.

DCV Range U102 Divider U101 Input Amplifier Gain ADC Input
100 mV Pin 5 x100 10 V
1V Pin 5 x10 10 V
10 V Pin 5 x1 10 V
100 V 1/100 Pin 8 x10 10 V
1000V 1/100 Pin 8 x1 10 V

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5 Theory of Operation

In the DC current function, a current is applied between the Input I and LO


terminals. Ranging is accomplished by relay K102 and amplifier gain switching in
U101. Since a known resistor (the shunt resister) is connected between these
terminals, a voltage proportional to the unknown current is generated. The
voltage sensed at R121 is measured by the multimeter’s DC circuitry. The table
below illustrates the DC current measuring function configurations.

DCI Range Shunt Resistor U101-10 Input Amplifier Gain ADC Input
1A 0.1W 100 mV x100 10 V
100 mA 5.1W 510 mV x10 5.1 V
10 mA 5.1W 51 mV x100 5.1 V

Resistance measurements are made by applying a known current through an


unknown resistance. The resulting voltage drop across the unknown resistance is
then measured by the multimeter’s DC circuitry. The 100 MW range is measured
using the known internal 10 MW resistance (U102A) in parallel with the unknown
input resistance while applying the 500 nA current source. The result is computed
from the measured data. The internal 10 MW resistance is determined whenever a
zero calibration is performed.
In the 2-wire ohms function, the voltage drop is measured across the Input HI and
Input LO terminals. In the 4-wire ohms function, the voltage is measured across
the HI Sense and LO Sense terminals. Lead resistances in series with the current
source (Input HI–LO) are not part of the final measurement. However, they do
reduce the available current source compliance voltage for the resistor under test.
The ohms current source will become non-linear when the compliance voltage
limit is exceeded. The full scale voltage developed across the unknown resistor
and the DC amplifier gain for each resistance range are tabulated below.

Ohms Range Vol tage Across R Amplifier Gain ADC Input


100 W 100 mV x100 10 V
1 kW to 100 kW 1V x10 10 V
1 MW 5V x1 5V
10 MW 5V x1 5V
100 MW 4.5 V x1 4.5 V

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Theory of Operation 5

Ohms Current Source


Unless otherwise noted, components in this discussion are located on the A4
circuit assembly (34970-66504).
The ohms current source flows from the Input HI terminal to the Input LO terminal
for both the 2-wire and 4-wire ohms functions. Each current value is generated by
forcing a stable, precise voltage across a stable resistance. The value of the
current becomes part of the range gain constant stored during calibration.
The +7 V reference voltage is used to generate a stable reference current with
U201A. R201 and R202 are the resistance references for the current sources as
shown in the table below. The IREF current is used to produce a precise voltage
drop across the 28.57 kW resistor in U102D-4. The IREF generated using R202
produces an approximate 5 V drop across the 28.57 kW resistor. The IREF
generated using R201 produces an approximate 0.5 V drop. This voltage is used
to force a reference voltage across the selected current source range resistor (5
kW, 50 kW, 500 kW, 1MW) by U201B. The resulting precision current flows through
JFET Q202 and protection circuit Q203 to Q211, and CR202 to relay K102 where it
is switched to the Input HI terminal for ohms measurements.
The protection circuits are designed to protect the ohms current source from
inadvertently applied voltages in excess of ±1000 V. Protection from large positive
voltages is provided by the reverse breakdown voltage of CR202. Protection from
large negative voltages is provided by the sum of the collector to base breakdown
voltages of Q203, Q205, Q207, and Q209. Bias for these transistors is provided by
Q211 and R203 to R206 while negative over voltages are applied.

Open Circuit Compliance Isource R


Ohms Range Current Reference
Vol tage Limit U102D
100 W 1 ma 9V R202 5 kW
2.5 V
1 kW 1 mA 9V R202 5 kW
2.5 V
10 kW 100 mA 9V R202 50 kW
4V
100 kW 10 mA 9V R202 500 kW
4V
1 MW 5 mA 9V R202 1 MW
8V
10 MW 500 nA 14 V R201 1 MW
10 V
100 MW[1] 500 nA[a] 5V R201 1 MW

[a] Measured in parallel with the internal 10 MW resistor.

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5 Theory of Operation

AC Circuit
Unless otherwise noted, components in this discussion are located on the A4
circuit assembly (34970-66504).
The multimeter uses a true RMS ac-to-dc converter to measure AC voltages and
currents. The ac-to-dc converter changes the input AC voltage to a DC voltage.
All voltage ranging is performed in the AC circuit so that the input to the
multimeter’s DC circuitry (AC_OUT) is nominally 2 VDC for a full scale AC input.
The DC amplifier is always configured for x1 gain in AC functions (voltage, current,
frequency, and period). Relay K104 connects the AC circuit to either the Input HI
terminal or to R121, the current function voltage sense point. Note that the input
to the AC circuit may contain a DC bias from the applied AC signal.
Input coupling capacitor C301 blocks the DC portion of the input signal. Only the
AC component of the input signal is measured by the multimeter. The AC circuit
voltage ranging comprises two gain stages U301 and U305/U312. The voltage
gains for each stage are tabulated below.

Function Range Shunt Resistor 1st Stage 2nd Stage ADC Input
100 mV x0.2 x100 2 VDC
ACV, Freq, or 1V x0.2 x10 2 VDC
Period 10 V x0.2 x1 2 VDC
100 V x0.002 x10 2 VDC
300 V x0.002 x1 1.4 VDC
10 mA 5.1 W x0.2 x100 0.2 VDC
ACI 100 mA 0.1 W x0.2 x100 1 VDC
1A 0.1 W x0.2 x100 2VDC

The 1st stage is a compensated attenuator implementing a gain of x0.2 or x0.002


as selected by U304A and U304D. Each voltage range has a unique 50 kHz
frequency response correction produced by a programmable variable capacitor
connected across R304.

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Theory of Operation 5

The programmable capacitance is implemented by varying the signal level across


a compensating capacitor. In the x0.2 configuration, low frequency gain is set by
R301, R302, and R304. The variable gain element U302/U303 essentially varies
the value of C306 from 0 to 1 times its value in 256 steps. The exact gain constant
is determined during the 50 kHz AC voltage range calibration procedure. In the
x0.002 configuration, low frequency gain is set by R301, R302, and R303. The
variable gain element U302/U303 essentially varies the value of C305 plus C306
from 0 to 1 times their value in 256 steps. The exact gain constant is determined
during the 50 kHz AC voltage range calibration procedure.
The second stage is made up of two amplifiers (U305 and U312) each configured
for a fixed gain of x10. Overall 2nd stage gains of x1, x10, and x100 are produced
by routing the 1st stage output either around, or through one or both amplifiers as
shown in the table below.

2nd State Gain U306A U306B U306C U306D U304C


x1 ON OFF OFF OFF OFF
x10 OFF ON OFF ON OFF
x100 OFF ON ON OFF ON

The output of the 2nd stage is connected to the rms-to-dc converter stage. Any
residual DC offset from the amplifier stages is blocked by capacitor C316. Buffer
U307 drives the input to the rms-to-dc converter as well as the frequency
comparator (U310A) input. The rms-to-dc converter has two selectable averaging
filters (C318 and C318 plus C321) for the analog computer circuit of U308. The
two analog averaging filters together with digital filters running in the main CPU
implement the three selectable AC filters: slow, medium, and fast. The faster
analog filter (using C318) is used for all AC V, AC I, and frequency or period
autoranging. The slower analog filter is used only with the slow and medium AC
filter choices.
In frequency or period measurements, U310A generates a logic signal (FREQIN)
for every input zero crossing. The AC sections FREQRNG DC output is measured
directly by the main CPU’s 10-bit ADC during frequency or period measurements.
This lower resolution measurement is sufficient to perform voltage ranging
decisions for these functions. The frequency comparator output is disabled during
AC voltage and current measurements by U310B forcing U310A’s input to –15
volts.

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5 Theory of Operation

A-to-D Converter
Unless otherwise noted, components in this discussion are located on the A4
circuit assembly (34970-66504).
The analog-to-digital converter (ADC) is used to change DC voltages into digital
information (schematic shown on page 16-20). The circuitry consists of an
integrator amplifier (U402 and U420), current steering switch U411, resistor
network U102E, voltage reference U403, ADC controller U209, and residue ADC
U205.
The ADC method used is called multislope III. It is based on patented Keysight
ADC technology. Multislope III is a charge balancing continuously integrating
analog-to-digital converter. The ADC charge balancing algorithm is always
running, even when the multimeter is not triggered. The input voltage
continuously forces charge onto the integrator capacitors C400 and C401 through
U102E–R16.
Switches U411A and U411B steer fixed positive or negative reference currents
onto the integrator capacitor to cancel, or balance, the accumulated input
charge. The level shifted (R403 and R406) output of the integrator is checked
every 2.66 µs by the A1U209 COMP input. Logic state machines in A1U209
control the U411 current steering to continuously seek an approximate 2.5 V level
on the integrator amplifier output, FLASH. If the ADC input voltage ADIN is
between ±15 V, the integrator output (FLASH) will remain within the 0 V to 5 V
range of the A1U205 on-chip ADC. An input greater than +15 V may cause the
integrator output (U402–6) to saturate at about –18 V. An input less than –15 V
may cause U402 to saturate with an output of about +18 V. The A1U205 ADC
input (FLASH) is clamped to 0 V or 5 V by R405 and CR403 to protect A1U205.
The integrator amplifier is formed by U402 and U420. Resistors R420 and R421
affect the amplifier stability. Amplifier oscillation may occur if their values are
incorrect. Amplifier U420 improves the offset voltage characteristics of integrator
amplifier U402.

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Theory of Operation 5

Each analog-to-digital conversion begins when the multimeter is triggered. The


ADC starts by clearing the integrator slope count in A1U209. At the end of the
integration period, the slope count is latched. The slope count provides the most
significant bits of the input voltage conversion. The least significant bits are
converted by the on-chip ADC of CPU A1U205.
The instrument precision voltage reference is U403. Resistor R409 provides a
stable bias current for the reference zener diode. R408 and CR404 provide a bias
to assure that the reference zener biases to +7 V during power up. IC U400A
amplifies the voltage reference to +10 V while amplifier U401A inverts the +10 V
reference to –10 V. The reference voltages force precision slope currents for the
integrating ADC through U102E–R17, R18.

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5 Theory of Operation

Switch Modules
In general, all the switch modules share a common module control circuitry. This
circuitry is described below. Each module is described in further detail on the
following pages.

Switch Module Name Page


34901A 20 Channel MUX with T/C Compensation 151
34902A 16 Channel Reed MUX with T/C Compensation 153
34903A 20 Channel Actuator 155
34904A 4 X 8 Matrix Switch 156
34905A 50 W Dual 4:1 VHF MUX 158
34906A 75 W Dual 4:1 VHF MUX 158
34908A 40 Channel Single-Ended MUX with T/C Compensation 160

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Theory of Operation 5

Switch Module Control


A simplified block diagram of a typical module controller is shown below.

In addition to the +5 Volt power supply (Vcc) and ground, the module controller
uses four lines for control and communication:
– RESET, from the Earth Referenced Logic A1U305. RESET is common to all
three slots. The module controller performs a reset when this line goes high.
Reset conditions vary for each plug-in.
– SRQ, to the Earth Referenced Logic A1U305. The SRQ line is a
wired-OR line that can be driven by any plug-in. Consequently, any module
that asserts SRQ (line low), asserts this line in all other slots and at the Earth
Reference Logic.
– DATA IN, from the Floating Logic A1U205 via the opto-isolator A1U312. This
line is connected in common to all three slots.
– DATA OUT, from the module controller to the Floating Logic A1U205 via the
opto-isolator A1U213. This line is a wired-OR line that can be driven by any
module.

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5 Theory of Operation

The DATA IN and DATA OUT lines are optically isolated from the floating logic
controller. These lines communicate with the Floating Logic using an
asynchronous serial bit stream.
The serial communications use an 11 bit protocol; a start bit, 8 data bits, an
attention bit, and a stop bit. The attention bit is 1 if the 8 data bits are an address/
command, or 0 if the 8 data bits modify or provide data for the previously sent
command.
The module controller uses the hardwired slot-ID bits to decode the serial bit
stream address. When the address/command message address matches the
slot-ID, the plug-in is selected and responds to the following commands. All other
plug-ins will ignore the commands until a new address/command message is
received.
A 12 MHz crystal, Y101 is the clock for the module controller. The module ID is a
four bit pattern set through R106, R107, R108, and R109. The ferroelectric RAM
U150 provides data storage of the relay usage on the module (see page 58) and
the thermocouple reference junction temperature corrections (see page 119).
Data in and out of U150 is serial.
The 34901A, 34902A, and 34908A each have two onboard, solid state
temperature sensors, U151 and U152, physically located near the isothermal
block at the input connections. The temperature sensors are used as the
thermocouple temperature reference.
U101 controls the relays on the module using an 8-bit data bus and three control
lines. The data lines are latched and applied to the relay drivers.
U101 enters a low-power idle mode when inactive. U101 responds when a
command is received or when a scheduled reference junction temperature
measurement is taken.
The relays use a buffered +5 Volt power supply. U101 supplies two drive enable
lines (DR_EN and +5NL_EN) that connect Vcc from the digital bus with the relay
drive lines through Q101 (+5R or +5NL). To minimize the current through DGND
caused by static discharge, the ground return (ZGND) is isolated from the
backplane ground through a bead L102.

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Theory of Operation 5

Relay Drivers
Two types of single-coil relays are used on the switch modules: latching and
non-latching. Typical driver configurations are shown below.

The non-latching relay contacts are in the set position (closed) when current flows
through the coil. When the current is removed, the relay resets (opens). The
positive side of the relay coil is connected to +5NL. The negative side of the relay
coil is connected to ZGND through a single NPN transistor. The transistor and
+5NL must be on for the relay to stay in the set position.
The polarity of the current flow through the latching relay coil determines the set
(closed) or reset (open) position of the relay contacts. Latching relays are driven by
row and column latches or complimentary transistor pairs.

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5 Theory of Operation

To set a relay (close a channel) in the row column driver circuitry, the appropriate
row driver PNP transistor is turned on connecting the +5R supply to the positive
side of several relay coils and ZGND is applied to the negative side of the desired
relay coil through a column driver NPN transistor. To reset a relay, ZGND is
applied through an NPN row driver transistor and +5R through a PNP column
driver.
Tree latching relays are driven by complimentary transistor pairs that steer the
current through the relay coil.
The +5R supply is only enabled while the relay changes state. The table below
shows the times required for the relays to change state.

Switch Module Open Close


34901A 6 ms 6 ms
34902A 0.40 ms 1.25 ms
34903A 6 ms 6 ms
34904A 6 ms 6 ms
34905A/06A 10 ms 15 ms
34908A 6 ms 6 ms

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Theory of Operation 5

34901A
Components in this discussion are located on the A1 circuit assembly
(34901-66501).
The control circuitry has four groupings of latches, relay drivers and relays. The
three control lines (SEL_A, SEL_B, and SEL_C) from the module controller are
divided into five control lines by the binary to octal converter U109.

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5 Theory of Operation

The row latch, U102, and column latches, U103 and U104, control the relays. The
row drivers are divided into four groups of set and reset drivers. Each group of row
drivers controls five relays. The column drivers operate as a pair. There are ten
column drivers each controlling two relays. The analog bus backplane relays are
non-latching.
The 20 channels are divided into two banks. The banks are combined by closing
K422 for voltage and 2-wire Ohms switching. When K422 is open, the banks are
electrically independent of each other and this configuration is used for 4-wire
Ohms multiplexing where the Ohms current sources are connected to channels 1
through 10 and the sense is obtained from channels 11 through 20. K421 and
K423 control the connection to the analog bus for measurements using the
Internal DMM.

The current measurement channels are selected by relay K522. Relays K523 and
K524 short the inputs when a channel is not selected. Relay K521 makes the
connection to the analog bus for measurement by the Internal DMM.

152 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Theory of Operation 5

34902A
Components in this discussion are located on the A1 circuit assembly
(34902-66501).
The control circuitry has two groupings of latches, relay drivers, and relays. The 16
voltage and resistance measurement channels are directly driven. Tree switching
controls the 2-wire/4-wire Ohms operation and connections to the analog bus.

The reed relays are non-latching and the relay driver and +5R is applied while a
channel is closed.

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5 Theory of Operation

The 16 channels are divided into two banks. The banks are combined by closing
K327 for voltage and 2-wire Ohms switching. When K327 is open, the banks are
electrically independent of each other and this configuration is used for 4-wire
Ohms multiplexing where the Ohms current source is connected to channels 1
through 8 and the sense is obtained from channels 9 through 16. Relays K326 and
K328 control the connection to the analog bus for measurements using the
internal DMM.

154 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Theory of Operation 5

34903A
Components in this discussion are located on the A1 circuit assembly
(34903-66501).
The control circuitry has two grouping of latches, relay drivers and relays. The 20
channels are, for control purposes, arranged into 8 rows by 10 columns.

The row latch, U102, and column latches, U103 and U104, control the relays. The
row drivers are divided into four groups of set and reset drivers. Each group of row
drivers controls five relays. The column drivers operate as a pair. There are ten
column drivers each controlling two relays.
The 34903A provides 20 channels of Form C switching.

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5 Theory of Operation

34904A
Components in this discussion are located on the A1 circuit assembly
(34904-66501).
The control circuitry has four groupings of latches, relay drivers and relays divided
into 4 rows by 8 columns.

156 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Theory of Operation 5

The row latch, U102, and column latch U103, control the relays. The row drivers
are divided into four groups of set and reset drivers. Each group of row drivers
controls eight relays. The column drivers operate as a pair. There are eight column
drivers each controlling four relays. The relays are arranged in 4 rows by 8
columns.

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5 Theory of Operation

34905A/34906A
Components in this discussion are located on the A1 circuit assembly
(34905-66501 or 34906-66501).
The control circuitry has of two grouping of buffers, relay drivers and relays, one
for each multiplexer bank.

158 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Theory of Operation 5

Bank1 latch, U102, and Bank2 latch, U103, control the relays. The bank drivers are
divided into six groups of set and reset drivers. Each set and reset driver controls
one relay. The column drivers operate as a pair. There are six column drivers each
controlling a relay. The relays are arranged into two independent banks:

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5 Theory of Operation

34908A
Components in this discussion are located on the A1 circuit assembly
(34908-66501).
The control circuitry has three grouping of latches, relay drivers and relays. The 40
voltage and resistance measurement channels are, for control purposes, arranged
into 8 rows by 10 columns. Tree switching controls bank selection and
connections to the analog bus.

160 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Theory of Operation 5

The row latch, U102, and column latches, U103 and U104, control the relays. The
row drivers are divided into four groups of set and reset drivers. Each group of row
drivers controls five relays. The column drivers operate as a pair. There are ten
column drivers each controlling two relays. The analog bus backplane relays are
non-latching.
A single relay is used to switch two input channels. The choice of which channel is
connected to the common is performed by relay K422. Channels are paired 20
channels apart (Ch 1 with Ch 21, Ch 2 with Ch 22, etc.) Relay K421 connects the
common to the backplane analog bus for use with the internal DMM.

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5 Theory of Operation

Multifunction Module
The 34907A Multifunction module contains two 8-bit digital input/ output ports, a
totalizer input, and two 16-bit analog outputs.

Multifunction Control
Components in this discussion are located on the A1 circuit assembly
(34907-66501).
A simplified block of the module control circuit is shown below.

162 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Theory of Operation 5

In addition to the +5 Volt power supply (Vcc) and ground, the module controller
uses four lines for control and communication:
– RESET, from the Earth Referenced Logic A1U305. RESET is common to all
three slots. The module controller performs a reset when this line goes high.
Reset conditions vary for each plug-in.
– SRQ, to the Earth Referenced Logic A1U305. The SRQ line is a wired-OR line
that can be driven by any plug-in. Consequently, any module that asserts SRQ
(line low), asserts this line in all other slots and at the Earth Reference Logic.
– DATA IN, from the Floating Logic A1U205 via the opto-isolator A1U312. This
line is connected in common to all three slots.
– DATA OUT, from the module controller to the Floating Logic A1U205 via the
opto-isolator A1U213. This line is a wired-OR line that can be driven by any
module.
The DATA IN and DATA OUT lines are optically isolated from the floating logic
controller. These lines communicate with the Floating Logic using an
asynchronous serial bit stream.
The serial communications use an 11 bit protocol; a start bit, 8 data bits, an
attention bit, and a stop bit. The attention bit is 1 if the 8 data bits are an address/
command, or 0 if the 8 data bits modify or provide data for the previously sent
command.
The module controller uses the hardwired slot-ID bits to decode the serial bit
stream address. When the address/command message address matches the
slot-ID, the plug-in is selected and responds to the following commands. All other
plug-ins will ignore the commands until a new address/command message is
received.
A 12 MHz crystal, Y101, is the clock for the module controller. The module ID is a
four bit pattern set through RP102. The ferroelectric RAM U102 provides data
storage of the calibration constants for the analog output channels. Data in and
out of U102 is serial.
8 data lines, connected to U101 port 1, are used by the digital input and output
ports. One of the data lines is used to send serial data to the analog output
channels. The totalizer edge count is controlled by U101 P0.6 and read at U101
P3.4.
U101 enters a low-power idle mode when inactive. U101 responds when a
command is received or when a scheduled alarm scan is needed.

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5 Theory of Operation

Totalizer
Components in this discussion are located on the A1 circuit assembly
(34907-66501).
A simplified block diagram of the totalizer input is shown below.

The totalizer counts signals connected to the COUNT+ and COUNT– inputs. Two
op-amps, U108A and U108B, are used for input signal conditioning. Comparator
U109 determines the signal trigger levels based upon the setting of the jumper at
P102. With the P102 jumper in the TTL position, the totalizer counts pulses with
TTL trigger levels. With the jumper at P102 in the AC position the trigger level is at
zero.
The GATE and GATE* input signals control when counting occurs. If no signal is
connected, the totalizer counts any changing signal on the inputs. A TTL low on
the GATE input or a TTL high on GATE* input will halt counting.
Count edge selection is controlled from a U101 port bit (P0.6) through the
exclusive OR gate U111. When the P0.6 signal is low, the count increments on the
rising edge of the input signal. When the P0.6 signal is high, the count increments
on the falling edge of the input signal.

164 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Theory of Operation 5

Analog Output
Components in this discussion are located on the A1 circuit assembly
(34907-66501).
A simplified block diagram of the analog output channels is shown below.

Communication with each DAC (U503 and U504) is via three lines: SERSTB,
DACCLK, and SERDAT. Each DAC has a voltage output of ±3 V. U505 and U506
amplify this voltage to the ±12V output.
A DC/DC converter is used to provide the ± 15V supplies to U505 and U506. The ±
15V supplies also are used at the input of the totalizer. U502 provides the –5 V
supply used by the DACs.
A line from U101 P0.4 is used to control the output of U510. After a reset or
power-up, U510 is held in the shutdown state. U101 turns on the DC/DC
converter in response to commands from the main controller. The main controller
paces the turn on of the DC/DC converters to ensure that if multiple modules are
installed, the backplane power supply is not pulled down by the in-rush current of
the DC/DC converters.

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 165


5 Theory of Operation

Digital I/O
Components in this discussion are located on the A1 circuit assembly
(34907-66501).
A simplified diagram of a digital I/O channel is shown below.

Two stages of latches on the outputs and one set of latches on the inputs provide
synchronous 16 bit writes and reads of the digital ports.
For digital output, data is written to the upper and lower bytes (U201 and U202)
separately, then latched into the output latches U203 and U204 simultaneously.
On a digital input data is latched into the input latches U105 and U106
simultaneously.
MOSFETs are used to provide the low level output, and 74HC240’s are used to
provide the high level output.
During an output low, a logic high level is applied to the gate of the MOSFET
causing it to conduct and creating a low resistance path from the data line to
ZGND. In this state the MOSFET is capable of sinking an externally supplied
current of up to 400 mA. The blocking diodes, CR301-CR308 and CR401-CR408
prevent any current from sinking into the 74HC240’s.
During an output high, a logic low level is applied to the gate of the MOSFET
turning it off and presenting a high resistance between the data line and ground.

166 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Theory of Operation 5

The 74HC240’s, U205 and U206, provide the output high drive current necessary
to maintain a TTL high output level (= 2.4 VDC) under load.
At instrument turn-on, following a reset, and whenever the data lines are being
read, the MOSFETs are in the passive high state, and the high output drivers are
disabled. The resistor connected between the MOSFET’s gate and ZGND holds
the gate near ground potential when the module is initially turned-on to ensure
that the MOSFET is in the passive high state.
The comparators U301, U302, U401 and U402 maintain correct TTL high and low
levels by shifting the voltages from the input to compensate for the forward
voltage drop of the blocking diode. A reference voltage of +2.1 VDC (TTL_REF) is
applied to the inverting input of the comparator. When the input voltage is in the
range of 0 VDC to +4.3 VDC the blocking diode is forward biased and its forward
voltage drop is added to the applied voltage. For example, when 0 VDC is applied
to the data line, +0.7 VDC is present on the non-inverting input of the comparator
and the comparator output is low. When the input signal level is above 1.4 VDC, a
voltage greater then +2.1 VDC is applied to the non-inverting input of the
comparator causing its output to go high. When the input signal is less than 1.4
VDC, a voltage less than 2.1 VDC is applied to the comparator’s non-inverting
input causing its output to go low. This ensures an input voltage < 1.4 VDC is
interpreted as a TTL low level and an input > 1.4 VDC is interpreted as a TTL high
level.
The pull-up resistor (connected to the comparator’s non-inverting input) allows
external ground connections and open circuits to be detected. When the data line
is grounded, the blocking diode is forward biased applying a +0.7 VDC level to the
comparator, a TTL low. When the data line is allowed to float, the non-inverting
input of the comparator pulls up to +5 VDC, a TTL high.
The blocking diode on the output is used for circuit protection. The diode reverse
biases when the applied voltage exceeds +4.3 VDC preventing externally supplied
current from being injected into the module’s +5V supply line.
The MOSFETs have a built in zener diode that conducts at any voltage of
approximately 75 VDC or greater. The zener diode provides protection from
external over voltage situations including static electricity.

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 167


5 Theory of Operation

THIS PAGE HAS BEEN INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK.

168 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Keysight 34970A/34972A Data Acquisition/Switch Unit
Service Guide

6 Service
Service 170
Operating Checklist 171
Types of Service Available 172
Repackaging for Shipment 173
Cleaning 173
Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Precautions 174
Surface Mount Repair 174
To Replace the Power-Line Fuse 175
Troubleshooting Hints 175
Self-Test Procedures 179
Disassembly 184
To Order Replaceable Parts 194
Parts List for 34970A/34972A and 34901A 194

169
6 Service

Service
This chapter discusses the procedures involved for returning a failed instrument to
Keysight for service or repair. Subjects covered include the following:
– “Operating Checklist” on page 171
– “Types of Service Available” on page 172
– “Repackaging for Shipment” on page 173
– “Cleaning” on page 173
– “Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Precautions” on page 174
– “Surface Mount Repair” on page 174
– “To Replace the Power-Line Fuse” on page 175
(also depicted on page 32)
– “Troubleshooting Hints” on page 175
– “Self-Test Procedures” on page 179
– “Disassembly” on page 184
– “Recyclable Parts” on page 191
– “Parts List for 34970A/34972A and 34901A” on page 194

170 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Service 6

Operating Checklist
Before returning your instrument to Keysight Technologies for service or repair,
check the following items:

Is the instrument inoperative?


– Verify that the AC power cord is connected to the instrument.
– Verify that the front-panel On/Standby switch has been pushed.
– Verify that the power-line fuse is installed and not open (see page 41). The
instrument is shipped from the factory with a 500 mAT, 250 V fuse. This is the
correct fuse for all line voltages.
– Verify the power-line voltage setting. See “If the Instrument Does Not Turn On”
on page 41.

Does the instrument fail self-test?


– Verify that the correct power-line voltage is selected. See “If the Instrument
Does Not Turn On” on page 41.
– Remove all input connections to the instrument. Errors may be induced by AC
signals present on the input wiring during a self-test. Long test leads can act
as an antenna causing pick-up of AC signals.

Is the Current measurement function inoperative?


– Verify the input protection fuses on the 34901A Multiplexer Module. If
necessary, replace with a 1.5 A, 250 V NTD fuse.

The Current input is only available on channels 21 and 22 of the 34901A module.
NOTE

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 171


6 Service

Types of Service Available


If your instrument or plug-in module fails during the warranty period (within one
year of original purchase), Keysight will replace the unit free of charge. After your
warranty expires, Keysight will replace the unit at a competitive price. The
replacement units are fully refurbished and are shipped with new calibration
certificates.

Each replacement unit has its own serial number. The serial number of the
NOTE defective unit does not transfer to the replacement unit. The warranty period of
the replacement unit is based on the remaining warranty of the defective
34970A/34972A.

Keysight Unit Exchange


Contact your nearest Keysight Technologies Service Center to arrange to have
your instrument replaced. In the U.S. call 800-829-4444. Select “Option 3”
followed by “Option 1.”

Keysight Unit Exchange applies to the 34970A/34972A mainframe only. Plug-in


NOTE modules are not supported as exchange assemblies.

When exchanging the 34970A/34972A, do not ship plug-in modules with your
instrument. Remove all plug-in modules and customer wiring before shipping the
unit to Keysight.

The defective unit must be returned to Keysight before the replacement unit is
NOTE shipped to you. Additional information regarding unit exchange will be provided
when you contact Keysight.

172 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Service 6

Repackaging for Shipment


If the unit is to be shipped to Keysight for service or repair, be sure to:
– Attach a tag to the unit identifying the owner and indicating the required
service or repair. Include the instrument model number and your full serial
number.
– Place the unit in its original container with appropriate packaging material.
– Secure the container with strong tape or metal bands.
If the original shipping container is not available, place your unit in a container
which will ensure at least 4 inches of compressible packaging material around all
sides for the instrument. Use static-free packaging materials to avoid additional
damage to your unit.
Keysight suggests that you always insure shipments.

Cleaning
Unplug the instrument before cleaning it. Clean the outside of the instrument and
plug-in modules with a soft, lint-free, slightly dampened cloth. Do not use
detergent. Disassembly is not required or recommended for cleaning.

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 173


6 Service

Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Precautions


Almost all electrical components can be damaged by electrostatic discharge
(ESD) during handling. Component damage can occur at electrostatic discharge
voltages as low as 50 volts.
The following guidelines will help prevent ESD damage when servicing the
instrument or any electronic device.
– Disassemble instruments only in a static-free work area.
– Use a conductive work area to dissipate static charge.
– Use a conductive wrist strap to dissipate static charge accumulation.
– Minimize handling.
– Keep replacement parts in original static-free packaging.
– Remove all plastic, styrofoam, vinyl, paper, and other static-generating
materials from the immediate work area.
– Use only anti-static solder suckers.

SHOCK HAZARD. Only service-trained personnel who are aware of the


WARNING hazards invol ved should remove the instrument covers. To avoid electrical
shock and personal injury, make sure to d isconnect the power cord from
the instrument before removing the covers.

Surface Mount Repair


Surface mount components should only be removed using soldering irons or
desoldering stations expressly designed for surface mount components. Use of
conventional solder removal equipment will almost always result in permanent
damage to the printed circuit board and will void your Keysight factory warranty.

174 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Service 6

To Replace the Power-Line Fuse


The power-line fuse is located on the rear panel of the instrument, near the power
line connector. A procedure to replace the fuse is given on page 41. Use a
500 mAT, 250 V fuse for all power line settings.

Troubleshooting Hints
This section provides a brief check list of common failures. Before troubleshooting
or repairing the instrument, make sure the failure is in the instrument rather than
any external connections. Also make sure that the instrument is accurately
calibrated within the last year (see page 66). The instrument’s circuits allow
troubleshooting and repair with basic equipment such as a 6½-digit multimeter.

Unit is Inoperative
– Verify that the AC power cord is connected to the instrument.
– Verify that the front-panel On/Standby switch has been pushed.
– Verify that the power-line fuse is installed and not open (see page 41). The
instrument is shipped from the factory with a 500 mAT,250 V fuse.
– Verify the power-line voltage setting. See “If the Instrument Does Not Turn On”
on page 41.
– Remove all plug-in modules to verify that a plug-in module is not causing the
failure.

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6 Service

Unit Reports Error 705


This error may be produced if you accidentally turn off power to the unit during a
calibration or while changing a non-volatile state of the instrument. Recalibration
or resetting the state should clear the error. If the error persists, a hardware failure
may have occurred.

Isolating to an Assembly
– Remove all plug-in modules to isolate between the instrument and the plug-in
modules.
– Listen for a beep when you press the On/Standby switch. The main controller
can operate the beeper even with a display failure.
– Listen for the fan when you press the On/Standby switch. Fan operation
indicates some operation of the main controller and power supplies.
– Try to operate the instrument from a remote interface. If remote operations are
normal, the display should be replaced or repaired.
– Isolate the internal DMM by removing it. The instrument should operate and
pass self-test without the internal DMM installed. Disassembly procedures
start on page 184.

Unit Fails Self-Test


– Verify that the correct power-line voltage setting is selected.
– Remove all plug-in modules and run self-test again. If the instrument does not
show a failure, replace or troubleshoot the plug-in module.
– To isolate the internal DMM, disassemble the instrument and remove the
internal DMM. Disassembly procedures start on page 184. Run self-test again.
If the self-test passes, troubleshoot or replace the Internal DMM. If the
self-test fails, troubleshoot or replace the 34970A/34972A.

Power Supplies
Verify the power supplies generated on the 34970-66501 circuit board.
The front panel filament voltage, + 5 V backplane and +5 V fan are switched by the
On/Standby switch. All other power supplies operate whenever the AC power
cord is connected.

176 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Service 6

To check the power supplies, remove the instrument cover as shown on page 184.
The power supplies can be checked from the bottom of the instrument as shown
below. Be sure to use the correct ground point when checking the supplies.

– Exposed Mains
WARNING
– Do not Touch!

6 Vrms filament

+5 V Earth Referenced

-18 V float Ground Float

3 V battery
_
+

+18 V float
+5 V float

Chassis
Earth Reference

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 177


6 Service

If you need to change the battery on the 34972A, be sure to unplug the
instrument first. Use a CR2032 3V lithium battery, and insert the battery with the
+ side up. If you do not have a new battery, do not discard the old battery, as the
instrument will not boot up without a battery - even a dead one - in place.
Dispose of the old battery in accordance with local regulations.
Changing the battery is recommended at the instrument’s annual calibration. Do
not attempt to change the battery on the 34970A.
The A1 power supplies are tabulated below.

Power Supply Minimum Maximum Switched


+5 Earth Ref. No
4.75 V 5.25 V
+5 Backplane and Fan Yes
4.75 V 5.25 V
+5 Floating No
4.75 V 5.25 V
+18 Floating No
17.6 V 19.9 V
-18 Floating No
-19.0 V -16.8 V
6 Vrms Filament Yes

– Check that the input to the supply voltage regulator is at least 1 V greater than
its output.
– Circuit failures can cause heavy supply loads which may pull down the
regulator output voltage.
– Always check that the power supplies are free of AC oscillations using an
oscilloscope.
– All plug-in modules use the +5 V backplane supply. Some plug-in modules
generate their own local power supplies.

178 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Service 6

Self-Test Procedures
Power-On Self-Test
Each time the instrument is powered on, a small set of self-tests are performed.
These tests check that the minimum set of logic and measurement hardware are
functioning properly. Any plug-in modules installed are verified for two-way
communication with the main controller.

Complete Self-Test
Hold down any front panel key for 5 seconds while turning on the power to
perform a complete self-test. The instrument beeps when the test starts. If all
self-tests pass the display shows PASS for five seconds and the instrument
returns to the last measurement function.

Plug-in Module Self-Test


No user self-test exists for the plug-in modules. The plug-in modules perform
their own self-test when power is applied. Additionally, the mainframe checks
two-way communication with all plug-in modules at power on.
Each plug-in module also performs error checking at regular intervals during
operation and any errors detected are reported via the status system to the main
controller.

The following pages contain a subset of the 34970A/34972A error messages.


NOTE Refer to the 34970A/34972A User’s Guide for the complete error message
listing.

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6 Service

Self-Tests
A complete self-test performs the following tests. A failing test is indicated by the
test number and description in the display. For a complete list of error messages,
see Chapter 5 in the Keysight 34970A/34972A User’s Guide.

601 Front panel not respond ing The main CPU A1U205 attempts to establish serial
communications with the front panel processor A2U1. During this test, A2U1 turns
on all display segments. Communication must function in both directions for this
test to pass. If this error is detected during power-up self-test, the instrument will
beep. This error is only readable from the remote interface.

602 RAM read/write failed This test writes and reads a 55η and AAη checkerboard
pattern to each address of RAM. Any incorrect readback will cause a test failure.
This error is only readable from the remote interface.

603 A / D sync stuck The main CPU issues an A/ D sync pulse to A1U209 and
A1U205 to latch the value in the ADC slope counters. A failure is detected when a
sync interrupt is not recognized and a subsequent time-out occurs.

604 A / D slope convergence failed The input amplifier is configured to the measure
zero (MZ) state in the 10 V range. This test checks whether the ADC integrator
produces nominally the same number of positive and negative slope decisions (±
10%) during a 20 ms interval.

605 Cannot calibrate rundown gain This test checks the nominal gain between the
integrating ADC and the A1U205 on-chip ADC. This error is reported if the
procedure can not run to completion due to a hardware failure.

606 Rundown gain out of range This test checks the nominal gain between the
integrating ADC and the A1U205 on-chip ADC. The nominal gain is check to ±
10% tolerance.

607 Rundown too noisy This test checks the gain repeatability between the
integrating ADC and the A1U205 on-chip ADC. The gain test (606) is performed
eight times. Gain noise must be less than ± 64 LSBs of the A1U205 on-chip ADC.

180 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Service 6

608 Serial configuration read back failed This test re-sends the last 9 byte serial
configuration data to all the serial path. The data is then clocked back into
A1U209 and compared against the original 9 bytes sent. A failure occurs if the
data do not match.

609 DC gain x1 failed This test configures for the 10 V range. The DC amplifier gain is
set to X1. The measure customer (MC) input is connected to the internal TSENSE
source which produces 0.6 volts. A 20 ms ADC measurement is performed and
checked against a limit of 0.6 V ± 0.3 V.

610 DC gain x10 failed This test configures for the 1 V range. The DC amplifier gain is
set to X10. The measure customer (MC) input is connected to the internal TSENSE
source which produces 0.6 volts. A 20 ms ADC measurement is performed and
checked against a limit of 0.6 V ± 0.3 V.

611 DC gain x100 failed This test configures for the 100 mV range. The DC amplifier
gain is set to X100. The measure customer (MC) input is connected to the internal
TSENSE source which produces 0.6 volts. A 20 ms ADC measurement is
performed and checked for a + overload response.

612 Ohms 500 nA source failed This test configures to the 10 V DC range with the
internal 10 M 100:1 divider A4U102 connected across the input. the 500 nA Ohms
current source is connected to produce a nominal 5 V signal. A 20 ms ADC
measurement is performed and the result is checked against a limit of 5 V ± 1 V.

613 Ohms 5 µA source failed This test configures the 10 V range with the internal 10
M 100:1 divider A4U102 connected across the input. The
5 µA current source is connected. The compliance limit of the current source is
measured. A 20 ms ADC measurement is performed and the result is checked
against a limit of 7.5 V ± 3 V.

614 DC 300V zero failed This test configures the 300 V DC range with no input
applied. A 20 ms ADC measurement is performed and the result is checked
against a limit of 0V ± 5 mV.

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6 Service

615 Ohms 10 µA source failed This test configures the 10 V range with the internal 10
M 100:1 divider A4U102 connected across the input. The
10 µA current source is connected. A 20 ms ADC measurement is performed and
the result is checked against a limit of 7.5 V ± 3 V.

616 DC current sense failed This test configures the 1 A DC rage and function. A 20
ms ADC measurement is performed and the result is checked against a limit of 0 A
± 5 A. This test confirms that the DC current sense path is functional.

617 Ohms 100 µA source failed This test configures the 10 V range with the internal
10 M 100:1 divider A4U102 connected across the input. The 100 µA current
source is connected. The compliance limit of the current source is measured. A 20
ms ADC measurement is performed and the result is checked against a limit of 5 V
± 1 V.

618 DC high voltage attenuator This test configures to the 300 VDC range. the 500
nA ohms current source is connected to produce a nominal 5 V signal. A 20 ms
ADC measurement is performed and the result is checked against a limit of –10
mV to 70 mV at the output of the rms-to-dc converter.

619 Ohms 1 mA source failed This test configures the 10 V range with the internal 1 0
M 100:1 divider A4U102 connected across the input. The 1 mA current source is
connected. A 20 ms ADC measurement is performed and the result is checked
against a limit of 7 V ± 3.5 V.

620 AC rms zero failed This test configures to the 100 mV AC range with the AC input
grounded through A4K103. The internal residual noise of the AC section is
measured and checked against a limit of –10 mV to 70 mV at the output of the
rms-to-dc converter.

621 AC rms full scale failed This test configures for the 100 mV AC range. The 1 mA
ohms current source is switched on the charge the AC input capacitor A4C301.
This produces a pulse on the output of the rms-to-dc converter which is sampled
100 ms after the current is applied. A 20 ms A/D measurement is performed and
checked against a limit of 10 V ± 8.5 V into the ADC.

182 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Service 6

622 Frequency counter failed This test configures for the 100 mV AC range. This test
immediately follows test 621. With A4C301 holding charge from test 621 the AC
input is now switched to ground through A4K103. This produces a positive pulse
on the input to the frequency comparator A4U310. While C301 discharges, the
ENAB FREQ bit is toggled four times to produce a frequency input to the counter
logic in A1U205. A failure occurs if the counter can not measure the frequency
input.

623 Cannot calibrate precharge This test configures to the 100 V DC range with no
input. The ADC is configured for 200 ms measurements. The A1U205 pulse width
modulated (PWM) DAC output (C224) is set to about 4 volts. A reading is taken in
with A4U101 in the MC state. A second reading is taken in the PRE state. The
precharge amplifier voltage offset is calculated. The A1U205 DAC output is set to
about 1.5 volts and the precharge offset is measured again. The gain of the offset
adjustment is calculated. This test assures a precharge amplifier offset is
achievable.

624 Unable to sense line frequency This test checks that the LSENSE logic input to
A1U205 is toggling. If no logic input is detected, the meter will assume a 50 Hz
line operation for all future measurements.

625 I/O processor d id not respond This test checks that communications can be
established between A1U205 and A1U305 through the optically isolated (A1U213
and A1U214) serial data link. Failure to establish communication in either
direction will generate an error. If this condition is detected at power-on self-test,
the instrument will beep and the error annunciator will be on.

626 I/O processor failed sel f-test A failure occurred when the earth referenced
processor, AU305, executed an internal RAM test.

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 183


6 Service

Disassembly
The following tools are recommended for disassembly.
– T15 Torx® driver (all screws)[1]
– 11 mm nut driver (front-panel disassembly)
– 5 mm nut driver (rear-panel connectors)
Tighten the fan screws to a maximum of 6 in/lbs (0.68 newton/meter).

SHOCK HAZARD. Only service-trained personnel who are aware of the


WARNING hazards invol ved should remove the instrument covers. Dangerous
voltages may be encountered with the instrument covers removed.

To prevent damage to the fan, do not over tighten the fan screws.
CAUTION

[1] Torx® is a registered trademark of Camcor/Textron, Inc.

184 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Service 6

General Disassembly

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 185


6 Service

Internal DMM Disassembly

186 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Service 6

Front Panel Disassembly

Maximum Torque:
6 in/lbs (0.68 n/m)

When reassembling the front panel, be sure to route the front panel cable as
NOTE shown above. Do not allow the front-panel cable to touch the digital ribbon
cable.

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 187


6 Service

Additional Chassis Disassembly

188 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Service 6

Plug-In Module Disassembly

Needle-nose
Pliers

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 189


6 Service

Needle-nose
Pliers

190 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Service 6

Recyclable Parts
The following table identifes the plastic components in your instrument that must
be recycled when the instrument is disposed of.

Part Number Description Image


34970-00101 Card Cage - Left

(Quantity: 1) 10% Glass Filled


Polycarbonate

34970-00102 Card Cage - Right

(Quantity: 1) 10% Glass Filled


Polycarbonate

34970-40201 Front Panel

(Quantity: 1) Polycarbonate/ABS

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 191


6 Service

Part Number Description Image


34970-88001 Keypad

(Quantity: 1) Silicone Rubber

34970-87401 Knob
34972-87401
Santoprene and 20%
(Quantity: 1) GF Polypropylene

34970-88302 Rear Bezel

(Quantity: 1) Polycarbonate

34401-86020 Bumpers Front/Rear

(Quantity: 1) Santoprene

192 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Service 6

Part Number Description Image


34401-45021 Handle

(Quantity: 1) Polycarbonate/ABS

34970-49321 Window
34972-49321
Polycarbonate
(Quantity: 1)

34970-44111 Cover

(Quantity: 2) 10% Glass Filled


Polycarbonate

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 193


6 Service

Replaceable Parts
This section contains information on ordering replacement parts for your
instrument. The parts list includes brief descriptions of the part with applicable
Keysight part numbers.

To Order Replaceable Parts


You can order replaceable parts from Keysight using the Keysight part number. All
parts listed in this chapter are available as field-replaceable parts. To order
replaceable parts from Keysight, do the following:
1 Contact your nearest Keysight Sales Office or Service Center.
2 Identify the parts by the part number shown in the replaceable parts list. Note
that not all parts are directly available from Keysight; you may have to order
certain parts from the specified manufacturer.
3 Provide the instrument model number and serial number.

Parts List for 34970A/34972A and 34901A

Part Number Part Description


1420-0860 34970A BATTERY 3V 850A-HR LI MANGANESE DIOXIDE
34970-49321 34970A WINDOW/FRONT
34970-87401 34970A KNOB
RS232-61601 34970A Cable, RS232, 9 pin
0960-0961 MECHANICAL ENCODER 2 BIT 24 POSITION.
34970-66502 PCA-Display bd
34970-68511 FAN ASSEMBLY
34970-80010 DMM Field Installation Kit
34970-86201 PWR MOD W/FUSE
34970-88302 BEZEL-REAR
34970-87901 Transformer

194 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


Service 6

Part Number Part Description


34401-86010 Bumper Kit
34401-45011 Handle
34970-84131 COVER-PAINTED ALUMINIUM
34972-87401 34972A Knob
8121-1074 USB Cable
34972-49321 34972A WINDOW/FRONT
1420-0356 34972A Battery
2110-0458 Fuse: 500 mAT (for 34970A and 34972A)
2110-0043 FUSE (INCH) 1.5A 250V NTD FE UL-LST (for 34901A)

Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide 195


6 Service

THIS PAGE HAS BEEN INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK.

196 Keysight 34970A/34972A Service Guide


This information is subject to change
without notice. Always refer to the
Keysight website for the latest
revision.

© Keysight Technologies 2009 - 2018


Edition 5, January 15, 2018

Printed in Malaysia

*34972-90010*
34972-90010
www.keysight.com

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