
Key Features
Overview
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Why Engineers Choose The Picotest M3500A High-Precision 6½ Digit Digital Multimeter
Laboratory-Grade Precision
System Integration Ready
Complete Measurement Solution
High-Precision Laboratory-Grade Digital Multimeter
The Picotest M3500A delivers exceptional measurement accuracy with 6½ digit resolution at a fraction of the cost of comparable instruments. This professional-grade digital multimeter combines the precision of 7½ digit techniques with the affordability needed for R&D, calibration, and production environments.
Advanced Measurement Capabilities
| Function | Range | Accuracy (1 year) | Resolution |
|---|---|---|---|
| DC Voltage | 100 mV to 1000 V | 0.0035% + 0.0005% | 0.1 µV to 1 mV |
| AC Voltage (True RMS) | 100 mV to 750 V | 0.06% + 0.04% | 0.1 µV to 1 mV |
| DC Current | 10 mA to 3 A | 0.05% + 0.005% | 10 nA to 10 µA |
| Resistance (2/4-wire) | 100 Ω to 100 MΩ | 0.01% + 0.001% | 100 µΩ to 100 Ω |
| Frequency | 3 Hz to 300 kHz | 0.01% | - |
Custom Slope Integrating A/D Converter
The M3500A features a proprietary slope integrating analogue-to-digital converter that delivers superior measurement stability and noise rejection. This advanced design filters environmental interference while maintaining excellent linearity across all measurement ranges.
Performance Advantage: At 6½ digits, the M3500A achieves 55 triggered readings per second via USB interface. For high-speed applications, 4½ digit mode delivers over 2000 readings per second into internal memory.
Data Acquisition and Connectivity
Beyond basic multimeter functions, the M3500A transforms into a comprehensive data acquisition system with optional 10 or 20-channel scanner cards. Temperature measurements support both RTD and thermocouple sensors with built-in cold junction compensation.
Mathematical Functions
Eight integrated mathematical operations enhance measurement capability: RATIO, %, Min/Max, NULL, Limits, mX+b, dB, and dBm. These functions eliminate the need for external calculations in many test scenarios.
PC Integration
TMC compliant USB 2.0 interface ensures compatibility with SCPI test programs, including direct emulation of Agilent 34401A commands. Included PC software provides:
- Real-time graphing and trend analysis
- Microsoft Excel and Word integration
- Data logging with 2000-reading internal memory
- Statistical analysis tools
Note: All accessories included: USB cable, test leads with safety probes, power cable, and comprehensive software suite.
| General Information | |
|---|---|
Part Number (SKU) |
M3500A
|
Manufacturer |
|
| Physical and Mechanical | |
Weight |
5.0 kg
|
| Other | |
EAN |
5055383600977
|
Questions and Answers
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Is the M3500A Suitable for High-speed Production Testing Applications?
Yes. It achieves over 2000 readings per second in 4½ digit mode, with a 2000-reading internal memory buffer. The USB interface gives fast data transfer for automated production.
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What Software Is Included and How Does It Integrate with Existing Workflows?
The software includes:
- PT-Tool for standalone operation
- Microsoft Excel add-in for direct data import
- Word integration for report generation
SCPI compatibility allows integration with LabVIEW, Python and other test development environments.
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How Does the M3500A Handle Temperature Measurements Compared to Dedicated Instruments?
Built-in temperature functions support seven thermocouple types (E, J, K, N, R, S, T) and RTD sensors. Cold junction compensation and linearisation are automatic, giving accuracy comparable to dedicated temperature instruments.
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What Accessories Are Required for Full Operation and Are They Included?
Yes, all essential accessories are included: USB cable, safety test leads with multiple probe types, power cable and software package. Optional accessories include scanner cards, specialised probes and communication interfaces.
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Can I Use the M3500A for Both Benchtop and Portable Applications?
Yes. It has protective rubber bumpers and a carrying handle for portable use. Selectable front/rear inputs suit both benchtop use and rack mounting.
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What Accuracy Can I Expect From the M3500A Compared to Industry Standards?
The M3500A has 0.0035% DC voltage accuracy on the 10V range, matching or beating instruments costing twice as much. This meets ISO calibration requirements and most laboratory measurement standards.
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How Does the M3500A Compare to the Agilent 34401A for Existing Test Systems?
The M3500A has full 34401A SCPI command emulation, so it can directly replace a 34401A in existing automated test systems. It also has faster sampling and better stability from its custom slope integrating A/D converter.
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Can the M3500A Function as a Data Acquisition System for Multi-channel Measurements?
Yes. Optional 10 or 20-channel scanner cards turn the M3500A into a data acquisition unit. It supports voltage measurement and temperature sensing via RTD and thermocouple inputs, with built-in cold junction compensation.
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What Measurement and Maths Functions Does the M3500A Provide?
The M3500A has 11 measurement functions, including frequency, period, continuity, diode test and temperature. Eight maths functions (ratio, percentage, min/max, null, limits, mX+b, dB and dBm) remove the need for external calculation.
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