The Keysight 34970A/34972A is a data acquisition and switch unit built around a 3-slot mainframe and an optional internal 6½-digit DMM. Rather than route every channel through external signal conditioning, the internal autoranging DMM measures 11 different functions directly — temperature via thermocouples, RTDs and thermistors; DC and AC volts; 2- and 4-wire resistance; frequency and period; and DC and AC current. Per-channel configurability lets each channel be set up independently, so a single mainframe can mix temperature, voltage and resistance scans across one wiring harness.

Functionality is defined by the plug-in modules installed in the three slots. The family covers low-frequency armature and reed multiplexers, a 40-channel single-ended multiplexer, a 4x8 two-wire matrix switch, a 20-channel actuator/general-purpose switch, dual-channel 50-ohm and 75-ohm RF multiplexers, and a multifunction module that adds digital I/O, analog output and totalizer capability. Each module carries its own microprocessor and screw-terminal connectors, and the internal analog bus routes low-frequency multiplexer signals directly to the internal DMM without external cabling. Channels and functions can be added later by changing modules as an application grows.

ValueTronics International has supplied test and measurement equipment from its facility in Elgin, Illinois since 1992. Each pre-owned 34970A/34972A is inspected and functionally verified in-house by our technical team at our 20,000 sq ft secure warehouse before it ships, rather than drop-shipped from a third-party warehouse.

Brand Heritage

The 34970A data acquisition platform originated with Hewlett-Packard, transferred to Agilent Technologies when HP spun off its test-and-measurement business, and is now a Keysight Technologies product following Agilent's 2014 separation of its electronic measurement division.

Compare Other Models in This Series

The 34970A/34972A family is two mainframes that share the same 3-slot architecture, the same optional 6½-digit internal DMM, and the same plug-in module set. The only functional difference is the host-PC connectivity, so the choice between them is an interface decision rather than a measurement one.

Choose the 34970A when the test system standardizes on GPIB or RS-232. Choose the 34972A when LAN/LXI or USB connectivity is preferred, when the browser-based web interface is useful for remote configuration, or when standalone logging to a USB flash drive is needed.

Both mainframes accept the identical module lineup and the same internal DMM option, so a module purchased for one works in the other. The 34972A adds the graphical web interface and USB memory-port logging that the 34970A does not provide.

Additional differences in specifications beyond the few shown above are not listed here — see each model's full specifications below.

Accessories Supplied

• Internal 6½ digit DMM (unless Option 001)
• Test report
• Power cord
• Thermocouple
• Screwdriver
• BenchLink Data Logger 3 software (CD-ROM)

Product Core & Specifications

Important: Plug-in modules are purchased separately and are required to operate the mainframe; the 34970A/34972A does not measure or switch without at least one module installed.

Important: Plug-in modules are purchased separately and are required to operate the mainframe.

Important: Option 001 deletes the internal DMM; order 34970-80010 to retrofit the DMM later.

Usage tip: pair the mainframe with a 34901A 20-channel armature multiplexer for general-purpose temperature and voltage scanning, or a 34908A 40-channel single-ended multiplexer when channel count matters more than per-channel isolation.

About this Pre-Owned unit

This pre-owned unit is inspected and functionally verified in-house before it ships and is backed by our pre-owned warranty. To confirm its exact condition, firmware revision, installed options, or included accessories for your application before ordering, contact our Test Architects.

• Warranty included
• Functional verification included
• Standard Calibration Upgrade Options: No Calibration Required, NIST Traceable, Z540.1 or ISO 17025 with Data, Z540.3 Guardbanding with Data.
• Note that unnecessary accessories may not be included (contact Test Architect to confirm).

ValueTronics supplies both new and used test and measurement equipment. New units ship factory-sealed, exactly as received from the manufacturer; every used unit is inspected and functionally verified in-house at our 20,000 sq ft secure facility in Elgin, Illinois before it ships. Our Test Architects can help you select the condition, calibration, and configuration that fit your application.

Please review the Manufacturer's Data Sheet to verify published specifications. Feedback on this webpage is always welcome — please reach out to your Test Architect at any time for questions or concerns. Thank you, we truly appreciate you being our customer.