Chapter 3 System Overview

Data Acquisition System Overview

System Cabling

 

 

 

The plug-in modules have screw-terminal connectors to make it easy to

 

connect your system cabling. The type of cabling that you use to connect

 

your signals, transducers, and sensors to the module is critical to

 

measurement success. Some types of transducers, such as thermocouples,

 

have very specific requirements for the type of cable that can be used to

 

 

make connections. Be sure to consider the usage environment when

 

 

choosing wire gauge and insulation qualities. Wire insulation typically

 

 

consists of materials such as PVC or Teflon® . The table below lists

 

3

several common cable types and describes their typical uses.

 

 

 

 

 

Note: Wiring insulation and usage is described in more detail in

 

“System Cabling and Connections” starting on page 335.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cable Type

Common Uses

Comments

 

 

 

 

 

 

Thermocouple

Thermocouple measurements.

Available in specific thermocouple types.

 

Extension Wire

 

Also available in a shielded cable for

 

 

 

added noise immunity.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Twisted Pair,

Measurement inputs, voltage

Most common cable for low-frequency

 

Shielded Twisted Pair

outputs, switching, counting.

measurement inputs. Twisted pair

 

 

 

reduces common mode noise.

 

 

 

Shielded-twisted pair provides additional

 

 

 

noise immunity.

 

Shielded Coaxial,

VHF signal switching.

Most common cable for high-frequency

 

Double-Shielded

 

signal routing. Available in specific

 

Coaxial

 

impedance values (50or 75).

 

 

 

Provides excellent noise immunity.

 

 

 

Double-shielded cable improves

 

 

 

isolation between channels. Requires

 

 

 

special connectors.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Flat Ribbon,

Digital Input/Output

Often used with mass termination

 

Twisted Pair Ribbon

 

connectors. These cables provide little

 

 

 

noise immunity.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Teflon is a registered trademark of E.I. duPont deNemours and Company.

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Agilent Technologies 34970A manual System Cabling and Connections starting on, Cable Type Common Uses Comments

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.