Switch and Measurement Connections

Most often, test systems must be flexible enough to be easily moved to a new location or modified for different devices under test. Having a removable wiring terminal block or a pre-wired cable is optimal in these situations. The module’s terminal and/or cable can simply be removed and replaced with a different terminal for the new test configuration. This prevents the need to rewire the same terminal each time for different applications. Fortunately, both the 34980A and 3499A/B/C provide the removable terminals and pre-wired cables so changing your test system wiring from the 3499A/B/C to the 34980A is fairly simple.

The 34980A offers the ability to use either standard Dsub 50 and Dsub 78 connectors/cables, detachable terminal cards or mass interconnect connections. The RF and Microwave modules include standard connectors such as SMA and SMB. The 34980A cables

(Dsub50 and Dsub78) are low cost and readily available from many sources. The detachable screw terminal blocks are easy to wire and include built-in cable strain relief. The screw terminals attach to the switch modules with a secure latching mechanism for ease of use and improved connection reliability. No tools are required to easily connect and disconnect the wired terminals. The 3499 terminals are secured to the module and housing by screws at the end of the terminals and require a screwdriver to remove or replace.

For more complex test system wiring, mass interconnect (one location in a system where the switch, instruments and DUT are interconnected) is made easy by using solutions provided by connection experts. The standard Dsub 50 and Dsub 78 connectors make it faster and easier for Mass Interconnect suppliers to provide a test system wiring solution. The easy to use connections facilitate time and cost savings for test systems using the 34980A.

The 34980A terminal wiring and cables are different from that of the 3499A/B/C. However, they offer a better solution to test system interface due to the use of highly reliable standard connectors and low cost cables.

Refer to Table 2 for the modules that have optional terminal blocks or the 34980A data sheet for specific module wiring connection details: http://www.agilent.com/find/34980A.

The 3499A/B/C offers removable screw terminal blocks for many of the modules and also an option for pre-wired DIN96 to quad D25, or dual D50 cables. Some of the modules such as the Optics, Microwave and RF modules include the SMA or BNC terminals for application specific connections. Refer to Table 2 for modules that include terminals.

34980A Modules and Std DSub 50/78 connectors

3499A/B/C Modules and Terminals