Troubleshooting HP 34401a Voltage Meter Load

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SUMMARY

The forum discussion centers on troubleshooting issues with the HP 34401A voltage meter when measuring high impedance sensor inputs. Users report that connecting only the ground lead causes significant fluctuations in sensor readings, while the red lead alone does not produce this effect. The issue persists even when switching input resistance settings between 10M and >10G ohms. Participants suggest that the problem may stem from the meter's reference ground affecting the analyzer circuit, necessitating further details about the sensor and the receiving instrument.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of high impedance sensor inputs
  • Familiarity with the HP 34401A voltage meter
  • Knowledge of instrumentation amplifiers
  • Basic principles of electrical grounding and measurement techniques
NEXT STEPS
  • Investigate the specifications and behavior of the HP 34401A voltage meter
  • Research the characteristics of high impedance sensors and their impact on measurements
  • Learn about instrumentation amplifiers and their role in sensor signal processing
  • Explore grounding techniques in electrical measurements to mitigate interference
USEFUL FOR

Electronics engineers, technicians working with high impedance sensors, and anyone involved in precision voltage measurements using the HP 34401A meter.

ttsky
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Hi every one,

I have a HP 34401a meter that is causing some issues with a high impedance sensor input.

when I place only the ground wire ( black ) to the input circuit ground, the sensor reading jumps quiet dramatically, this does not happen if i place only the Red wire.

I have tried an AMPROBE 30XR-A with no issues, but it is not sensitive enough for this.

can anyone think of why this could happen. I can provide schematics of the input circuitry if needed, the sensor input is connected to an instrumentation amp.

many thanks.
 
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Are you measuring Voltage?

Do you have two leads to make the measurement?
What happens if you connect both leads to the transducer?

Have you selected the input resistance in the Measurement Menu?
 
Baluncore said:
Are you measuring Voltage?

Do you have two leads to make the measurement?
What happens if you connect both leads to the transducer?

Have you selected the input resistance in the Measurement Menu?


Yes two leads, when both are connected i see a rise in sensor reading from the analyzer, and when i take both leads off the reading drops. i can recreate this with only the ground lead. i have selected between 10M and >10G ohms input resistance on the meter, both with same results. it feels as if the meter is at a slightly higher reference ground, and it is effecting the analyzer circuit. but i am not sure if that is possible with only one lead.
 
We really need more information here.
What does the sensor measure. We need to know the make / model of the sensor.
What instrument, make / model, is receiving the signal from the sensor.
 

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