Keysight / Agilent / HP 3497A Data Acquisition/Control Mainframe

The Keysight/Agilent/HP 3497A is a modular data acquisition and control mainframe engineered for automated test systems requiring flexible signal measurement and actuation. The mainframe accommodates up to five plug-in assemblies, with expansion capability via the HP 3498A Extender chassis to support an additional ten modules—enabling control of up to 1000 analog or 1360 digital channels in large-scale measurement applications.

– Technical Specifications

Mainframe Architecture

• Module slots: 5 plug-in assemblies (expandable to 15 with HP 3498A extender)
• Interfaces: HP-IB (IEEE 488) standard; optional RS-232C with Option 232 providing RS-449/423 compatibility
• Front panel: Alphanumeric keyboard and display with programmable audible alarm
• Real-time clock: Non-volatile
• Power: 110/120/220/240 VAC ±10%, 48–66 Hz, 150 VA (switch selectable)
• Operating temperature: 0°C to 55°C
• Non-operating temperature: −40°C to 75°C
• Humidity: Up to 95% at 40°C (non-condensing)
• Dimensions: 190.5 mm H × 428.6 mm W × 520.7 mm D
• Net weight: 20.4 kg; shipping weight (with assemblies): 26.3 kg maximum

Built-in Digital Multimeter (Option 001)

• Resolution: 5½ digit
• Sensitivity: 1 µV
• Type: Systems-quality integrating voltmeter with full guarding and excellent common/normal mode noise rejection
• Programmable current source: 0–20,475 mA or 4–20,380 mA (jumper selectable), maximum 15 mA output, 12.0 V compliance
• LSB: 5 µA (0–20 mA range), 4 µA (4–20 mA range)

– Key Features

• Scalable architecture supporting analog and digital I/O through plug-in module selection
• Four-terminal resistance measurement capability via integrated programmable current source
• Local programming and system diagnostics via dedicated front panel interface
• Extended channel capacity through mainframe chaining

– Typical Applications

• Automated production test systems
• Environmental chamber monitoring and control
• Multi-channel sensor data logging
• Process control and actuation

– Compatibility & Integration

Standard HP-IB interface enables integration into GPIB-based test networks. RS-232C option supports legacy serial protocols. Plug-in module ecosystem provides measurement functions including relay multiplexing, thermocouple acquisition, and digital I/O.