Troubleshooting HP 34401a Voltage Meter Load

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around troubleshooting issues with an HP 34401a voltage meter when used with a high impedance sensor input. Participants are exploring the behavior of the meter in relation to sensor readings and grounding configurations.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant describes a problem where the sensor reading fluctuates significantly when only the ground wire is connected to the input circuit ground, while no issues arise when only the red wire is used.
  • Another participant inquires whether the measurement is indeed voltage and asks about the configuration of the leads and the input resistance settings on the meter.
  • A follow-up response confirms that both leads are used and notes that connecting both leads causes a rise in the sensor reading, while disconnecting them results in a drop. The participant speculates that the meter might be at a higher reference ground affecting the analyzer circuit.
  • Another participant requests additional information about the sensor being measured, including its make and model, as well as the instrument receiving the signal from the sensor.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants have not reached a consensus on the cause of the issue, and multiple viewpoints regarding the behavior of the meter and sensor remain. The discussion is ongoing and unresolved.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the information provided, including missing details about the sensor's specifications and the receiving instrument, which may be relevant to understanding the problem.

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.
 
Engineering news on Phys.org
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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