Chapter 5 Remote Interface Reference

RS-232 Interface Configuration

RS-232 Flow Control Modes

You can select one of several flow control methods to coordinate the transfer of data between the instrument and your computer or modem.

• None: In this mode, data is sent and received over the interface

 

without any flow control used. When using this method, use a slower

 

 

baud rate (< 9600 baud) and avoid sending more than 128 characters

 

 

without stopping or reading a response.

 

•

XON/XOFF: This mode uses special characters embedded in the

 

 

data stream to control the flow. If the instrument is addressed to

 

 

send data, it continues sending data until the “XOFF” character (13H)

 

 

is received. When the “XON” character (11H) is received, the instrument

 

 

resumes sending data.

 

•

DTR/DSR: In this mode, the instrument monitors the state of the

 

 

DSR (data set ready) line on the RS-232 connector. When the line

 

 

goes true, the instrument sends data over the interface. When the line

 

 

goes false, the instrument stops sending information (typically within

 

 

six characters). The instrument sets the DTR line false when the

 

 

input buffer is almost full (approximately 100 characters) and

 

 

releases the line when space is available again.

 

•

RTS/CTS: This mode operates the same as the DTR/DSR mode but

5

 

uses the RTS (request to send) and CTS (clear to send) lines on the

RS-232 connector instead. When the CTS line goes true, the instrument sends data over the interface. When the line goes false, the instrument stops sending information (typically within six characters).

The instrument sets the RTS line false when the input buffer is almost full (approximately 100 characters) and releases the line when space is available again.

•Modem: This mode uses the DTR/DSR and RTS/CTS lines to control the flow of data between the instrument and a modem. When the RS-232 interface is selected, the instrument sets the DTR line true. The DSR line is set true when the modem is on-line. The instrument sets the RTS line true when it is ready to receive data. The modem sets the CTS line true when it is ready to accept data. The instrument sets the RTS line false when the input buffer is almost full (approximately 100 characters) and releases the line when space is available again.

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Agilent Technologies 34970A manual RS-232 Flow Control Modes
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34970A specifications

Agilent Technologies 34970A is a versatile data acquisition and measurement system that has gained popularity in various industries, including research and development, manufacturing, and education. The primary purpose of the 34970A is to offer an efficient solution for data collection, monitoring, and analysis, which can significantly enhance productivity and accuracy in testing applications.

One of the main features of the 34970A is its modular design, allowing users to customize the system according to their specific measurement needs. The mainframe can accommodate up to three plug-in measurement modules, which can include various types of measurements such as analog, digital, temperature, and frequency. This modularity provides flexibility for users to tailor the system to their requirements, making it highly adaptable to different applications.

Another notable characteristic of the Agilent 34970A is its impressive channel configuration. The system can support up to 120 measurement channels when fully configured, enabling extensive data acquisition without the need for multiple devices. This capability is essential for applications requiring simultaneous monitoring of multiple parameters or locations.

The 34970A utilizes advanced signal processing technologies to ensure high-accuracy measurements. The internal 6.5-digit resolution multimeter provides precise readings, while the device also supports various input types, such as thermocouples and RTDs for temperature measurements. The ability to perform mathematical functions, such as summation and averaging, on the acquired data further enhances its usability.

For data storage and management, the Agilent 34970A features built-in memory for storing up to 20,000 readings. Users can also easily transfer data to a PC through the RS-232 interface or GPIB (IEEE 488) for further analysis and reporting. Additionally, it offers the capability to program automatic data logging and scheduling of measurements, which streamlines the testing process and reduces manual intervention.

In terms of user interface, the 34970A is equipped with a large graphical display that provides clear visualization of measurement data and easy navigation through settings and options. The menu-driven interface makes it accessible for users of all skill levels, simplifying the setup and operation of the device.

Overall, the Agilent Technologies 34970A stands out for its modularity, high channel capacity, advanced measurement technologies, and user-friendly interface. As a reliable and efficient data acquisition system, it is well-suited for a wide range of applications, making it an essential tool for engineers and technicians looking to enhance measurement precision and efficiency.
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