Keithley 2100 User manual

www.keithley.com
Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter
User’s Manual
2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007
A GREATER MEASURE OF CONFIDENCE

A G R E A T E R M E A S U R E O F C O N F I D E N C E
Keithley Instruments, Inc.
Corporate Headquarters • 28775 Aurora Road • Cleveland, Ohio 44139
440-248-0400 • Fax: [phone] • 1-888-KEITHLEY (1-888-534-8453) • www.keithley.com
3/07
WARRANTY
Keithley Instruments, Inc. warrants this product to be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of
one (1) year from date of shipment.
Keithley Instruments, Inc. warrants the following items for 90 days from the date of shipment: probes, cables,
software, rechargeable batteries, diskettes, and documentation.
During the warranty period, Keithley Instruments will, at its option, either repair or replace any product that proves
to be defective.
To exercise this warranty, write or call your local Keithley Instruments representative, or contact
Keithley Instruments headquarters in Cleveland, Ohio. You will be given prompt assistance and return instructions.
Send the product, transportation prepaid, to the indicated service facility. Repairs will be made and the product
returned, transportation prepaid. Repaired or replaced products are warranted for the balance of the original
warranty period, or at least 90 days.
LIMITATION OF WARRANTY
This warranty does not apply to defects resulting from product modification without Keithley Instruments’ express
written consent, or misuse of any product or part. This warranty also does not apply to fuses, software,
non-rechargeablebatteries, damage from battery leakage, or problems arising from normal wear or failure to follow
instructions.
THIS WARRANTY IS IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING ANY
IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR USE. THE REMEDIES
PROVIDED HEREIN ARE BUYER’S SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDIES.
NEITHER KEITHLEY INSTRUMENTS, INC. NOR ANY OF ITS EMPLOYEES SHALL BE LIABLE FOR ANY
DIRECT, INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF THE USE
OF ITS INSTRUMENTS AND SOFTWARE, EVEN IF KEITHLEY INSTRUMENTS, INC. HAS BEEN ADVISED IN
ADVANCE OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. SUCH EXCLUDED DAMAGES SHALL INCLUDE, BUT
ARE NOT LIMITED TO: COST OF REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION, LOSSES SUSTAINED AS THE RESULT OF
INJURY TO ANY PERSON, OR DAMAGE TO PROPERTY.

Model 2100
6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter
User’s Manual
©2007, Keithley Instruments, Inc.
All rights reserved.
Cleveland, Ohio, U.S.A.
2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007
Document Number:

Manual Print History Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual
All Keithley Instruments product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of Keithley Instruments, Inc.
Other brand names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders.
2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007
Manual Print History
The print history shown below lists the printing dates of all Revisions and Addenda created for this
manual. The Revision Level letter increases alphabetically as the manual undergoes subsequent
updates. Addenda, which are released between Revisions, contain important change information that
the user should incorporate immediately into the manual. Addenda are numbered sequentially. When a
new Revision is created, all Addenda associated with the previous Revision of the manual are
incorporated into the new Revision of the manual. Each new Revision includes a revised copy of this
print history page.
Revision A (Document Number 2100-900-01) .........................................................June 2007
Revision B (Document Number 2100-900-01) ..........................................................July 2007

Safety Precautions
06/07
The following safety precautions should be observed before using this product and any associated instrumentation. Although some
instruments and accessories would normally be used with non-hazardous voltages, there are situations where hazardous conditions may
be present.
This product is intended for use by qualified personnel who recognize shock hazards and are familiar with the safety precautions required
to avoid possible injury. Read and follow all installation, operation, and maintenance information carefully before using the product. Refer
to the user documentation for complete product specifications.
If the product is used in a manner not specified, the protection provided by the product warranty may be impaired.
The types of product users are:
Responsible body is the individual or group responsible for the use and maintenance of equipment, for ensuring that the equipment is
operated within its specifications and operating limits, and for ensuring that operators are adequately trained.
Operators use the product for its intended function. They must be trained in electrical safety procedures and proper use of the instrument.
They must be protected from electric shock and contact with hazardous live circuits.
Maintenance personnel perform routine procedures on the product to keep it operating properly, for example, setting the line voltage or
replacing consumable materials. Maintenance procedures are described in the user documentation. The procedures explicitly state if the
operator may perform them. Otherwise, they should be performed only by service personnel.
Service personnel are trained to work on live circuits, perform safe installations, and repair products. Only properly trained service
personnel may perform installation and service procedures.
Keithley Instruments products are designed for use with electrical signals that are rated Measurement Category I and Measurement
Category II, as described in the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) Standard IEC 60664. Most measurement, control, and
data I/O signals are Measurement Category I and must not be directly connected to mains voltage or to voltage sources with high transient
over-voltages. Measurement Category II connections require protection for high transient over-voltages often associated with local AC
mains connections. Assume all measurement, control, and data I/Oconnections are for connection to Category I sources unless otherwise
marked or described in the user documentation.
Exercise extreme caution when a shock hazard is present. Lethal voltage may be present on cable connector jacks or test fixtures. The
American National Standards Institute (ANSI) states that a shock hazard exists when voltage levels greater than 30V RMS, 42.4V peak,
or 60VDC are present. A good safety practice is to expect that hazardous voltage is present in any unknown circuit before measuring.
Operators of this product must be protected from electric shock at all times. The responsible body must ensure that operators are
prevented access and/or insulated from every connection point. In some cases, connections must be exposed to potential human contact.
Product operators in these circumstances must be trained to protect themselves from the risk of electric shock. If the circuit is capable of
operating at or above 1000V, no conductive part of the circuit may be exposed.
Do not connect switching cards directly to unlimited power circuits. They are intended to be used with impedance-limited sources. NEVER
connect switching cards directly to AC mains. When connecting sources to switching cards, install protective devices to limit fault current
and voltage to the card.
Before operating an instrument, ensure that the line cord is connected to a properly-grounded power receptacle. Inspect the connecting
cables, test leads, and jumpers for possible wear, cracks, or breaks before each use.

When installing equipment where access to the main power cord is restricted, such as rack mounting, a separate main input power
disconnect device must be provided in close proximity to the equipment and within easy reach of the operator.
For maximum safety, do not touch the product, test cables, or any other instruments while power is applied to the circuit under test.
ALWAYS remove power from the entire test system and discharge any capacitors before: connecting or disconnecting cables or jumpers,
installing or removing switching cards, or making internal changes, such as installing or removing jumpers.
Do not touch any object that could provide a current path to the common side of the circuit under test or power line (earth) ground. Always
make measurements with dry hands while standing on a dry, insulated surface capable of withstanding the voltage being measured.
The instrument and accessories must be used in accordance with its specifications and operating instructions, or the safety of the
equipment may be impaired.
Do not exceed the maximum signal levels of the instruments and accessories, as defined in the specifications and operating information,
and as shown on the instrument or test fixture panels, or switching card.
When fuses are used in a product, replace with the same type and rating for continued protection against fire hazard.
Chassis connections must only be used as shield connections for measuring circuits, NOT as safety earth ground connections.
If you are using a test fixture, keep the lid closed while power is applied to the device under test. Safe operation requires the use of a lid
interlock.
If a screw is present, connect it to safety earth ground using the wire recommended in the user documentation.
The symbol on an instrument indicates that the user should refer to the operating instructions located in the user documentaion.
The symbol on an instrument shows that it can source or measure 1000V or more, including the combined effect of normal and
common mode voltages. Use standard safety precautions to avoid personal contact with these voltages.
The symbol on an instrument shows that the surface may be hot. Avoid personal contact to prevent burns.
The symbol indicates a connection terminal to the equipment frame.
If this symbol is on a product , it indicates that mercury is present in the display lamp. Please note that the lamp must be properly
disposed of according to federal, state, and local laws.
The WARNING heading in the user documentation explains dangers that might result in personal injury or death. Always read the
associated information very carefully before performing the indicated procedure.
The CAUTION heading in the user documentation explains hazards that could damage the instrument. Such damage may invalidate the
warranty.
Instrumentation and accessories shall not be connected to humans.
Before performing any maintenance, disconnect the line cord and all test cables.
To maintain protection from electric shock and fire, replacement components in mains circuits - including the power transformer, test leads,
and input jacks - must be purchased from Keithley Instruments. Standard fuses with applicable national safety approvals may be used if
the rating and type are the same. Other components that are not safety-related may be purchased from other suppliers as long as they
are equivalent to the original component (note that selected parts should be purchased only through Keithley Instruments to maintain
accuracy and functionality ofthe product). Ifyou are unsure aboutthe applicability ofa replacementcomponent,call aKeithleyInstruments
office for information.
To clean an instrument, use a damp cloth or mild, water-based cleaner. Clean the exterior of the instrument only. Do not apply cleaner
directly to the instrument or allow liquids to enter or spill on the instrument. Products that consist of a circuit board with no case or chassis
(e.g., a data acquisition board for installation into a computer) should never require cleaning if handled according to instructions. If the
board becomes contaminated and operation is affected, the board should be returned to the factory for proper cleaning/servicing.
!

Section Topic Page
1 General Information.............................................................................. 1-1
Introduction................................................................................................. 1-2
Feature overview........................................................................................ 1-2
Specifications.............................................................................................. 1-3
Manual addenda......................................................................................... 1-3
Precautions for operation............................................................................ 1-3
Upkeep of the Model 2100.......................................................................... 1-3
Safety information....................................................................................... 1-4
Safety symbols and terms.................................................................... 1-4
Inspection for damage................................................................................ 1-4
Shipment contents...................................................................................... 1-5
Instruction manual ...................................................................................... 1-5
Repacking for shipment.............................................................................. 1-5
2 Getting Started ....................................................................................... 2-1
Overview..................................................................................................... 2-2
Setting up the Model 2100 Digital Multimeter............................................. 2-2
Adjusting the handle............................................................................. 2-2
Setting the line voltage......................................................................... 2-4
Connecting the power.......................................................................... 2-7
Changing the fuses.............................................................................. 2-9
Factory default settings...................................................................... 2-18
Model 2100 familiarization........................................................................ 2-19
The front panel................................................................................... 2-19
The display........................................................................................ 2-21
The rear panel.................................................................................... 2-23
3 Basic Measurement Functions........................................................... 3-1
Introduction................................................................................................. 3-2
Voltage measurements (DC and AC) ......................................................... 3-2
How to measure voltage....................................................................... 3-3
Current measurements (DC and AC) ......................................................... 3-3
How to measure current....................................................................... 3-3
Resistance measurements (2- and 4-wire)................................................. 3-4
How to measure resistance.................................................................. 3-6
Frequency and period measurements........................................................ 3-6
How to measure frequency and period ................................................ 3-6
Continuity measurements........................................................................... 3-7
How to measure the continuity............................................................. 3-7
Diode measurements.................................................................................. 3-7
How to measure a diode...................................................................... 3-8
RTD measurements.................................................................................... 3-8
2-wire RTD measurements .................................................................. 3-8
3-wire RTD measurements .................................................................. 3-9
4-wire RTD measurements ................................................................ 3-10
Table of Contents

Table of Contents Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual
ii 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007
Section Topic Page
4 Front Panel Operations........................................................................ 4-1
Introduction................................................................................................. 4-2
Measurement configuration ........................................................................ 4-2
Set ADC (Auto Zero and Auto Gain).................................................... 4-2
Filter ..................................................................................................... 4-4
Resolution setting (digits)..................................................................... 4-6
DC input resistance.............................................................................. 4-7
Threshold resistance (continuity).......................................................... 4-8
Range (manual and auto)..................................................................... 4-9
Rate (integration time)........................................................................ 4-10
Sensor selection for temperature.............................................................. 4-11
Measurements.................................................................................... 4-11
RTD.................................................................................................... 4-11
Input terminal switch........................................................................... 4-13
Trigger operations..................................................................................... 4-14
Trigger mode...................................................................................... 4-14
Trigger source .................................................................................... 4-16
Trigger setting..................................................................................... 4-16
Math operations........................................................................................ 4-19
Ratio................................................................................................... 4-20
% (Percent) ........................................................................................ 4-21
MIN/MAX............................................................................................ 4-22
Null..................................................................................................... 4-23
Limits test ........................................................................................... 4-24
MX+B.................................................................................................. 4-25
dB....................................................................................................... 4-26
dBm.................................................................................................... 4-27
Other system-related operations............................................................... 4-29
Display................................................................................................ 4-29
Beeper................................................................................................ 4-30
Reading memory (store and recall).................................................... 4-31
Sensitivity band (Hold) ....................................................................... 4-33
Initial mode......................................................................................... 4-34
Language ........................................................................................... 4-35
Error condition.................................................................................... 4-35
Firmware revision............................................................................... 4-36
Calibration ......................................................................................... 4-40
5 Remote Interface Operations.............................................................. 5-1
Introduction................................................................................................. 5-2
Pass/fail output from the USB connector ............................................. 5-2
Setting up the remote interface................................................................... 5-2
Remote interface commands...................................................................... 5-3
Common commands............................................................................ 5-3
Other measurement configuration commands..................................... 5-7
Math operation commands................................................................... 5-7
Triggering.................................................................................................... 5-8
Triggering commands........................................................................... 5-8
System-related commands......................................................................... 5-9
Status reporting commands.................................................................. 5-9
Other interface commands................................................................. 5-10
6 Error Messages...................................................................................... 6-1
Introduction................................................................................................. 6-2
Execution errors.......................................................................................... 6-2

Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual Table of Contents
2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007 iii
Appendix Topic Page
A Specifications......................................................................................... A-1
B Remote Interface Reference................................................................ B-1
An introduction to SCPI language............................................................... B-2
Command format used in this manual.................................................. B-2
SCPI parameter types.......................................................................... B-4
Output data formats.............................................................................. B-5
The MEASure? command.................................................................... B-6
The CONFigure command ................................................................... B-7
The measurement configuration command.......................................... B-9
The math operation command ........................................................... B-14
The triggering commands................................................................... B-17
The system-related commands.......................................................... B-18
Other interface commands................................................................. B-20
Status reporting commands................................................................ B-20
Model 2100-specific SCPI compliance information............................ B-22
IEEE-488 compliance information...................................................... B-24
About application programs...................................................................... B-24
Visual Basic 6 programming example 1: MEASure.bas..................... B-24
Visual Basic programming example 2: CONFigure............................ B-27
Visual C++ programming example: DEVQUERY............................... B-29
Index ........................................................................................................................... I-1

Table of Contents Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual
iv 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007
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Section Figure Title Page
1Figure 1-1 The Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter............. 1-2
2Figure 2-1 Moving the handle to an upright position ....................................... 2-2
Figure 2-2 Removing the handle from the multimeter..................................... 2-3
Figure 2-3 Default handle position................................................................... 2-3
Figure 2-4 Operation handle position.............................................................. 2-4
Figure 2-5 Carrying position............................................................................ 2-4
Figure 2-6 Disconnecting AC power................................................................ 2-5
Figure 2-7 Opening the voltage setting selector.............................................. 2-5
Figure 2-8 Removing the red voltage selector fuse holder.............................. 2-6
Figure 2-9 Inserting the voltage selector ......................................................... 2-7
Figure 2-10 Powering-off the multimeter ........................................................... 2-7
Figure 2-11 Plugging in the power cord............................................................. 2-8
Figure 2-12 Switching on the power.................................................................. 2-8
Figure 2-13 Disconnecting the AC power........................................................ 2-10
Figure 2-14 Opening the voltage setting selector............................................ 2-10
Figure 2-15 Removing the red voltage setting selector................................... 2-11
Figure 2-16 Removing the damaged power line fuse...................................... 2-11
Figure 2-17 Replacing the fuse ....................................................................... 2-12
Figure 2-18 Reinserting the voltage selector................................................... 2-12
Figure 2-19 Current protection using 3A and 7A current input fuses in series 2-13
Figure 2-20 Disconnecting the AC power........................................................ 2-14
Figure 2-21 Releasing the current input terminal fuse holder.......................... 2-14
Figure 2-22 Removing the current input terminal fuse holder ......................... 2-15
Figure 2-23 Removing and replacing the damaged fuse................................. 2-15
Figure 2-24 Reinserting and securing the current input terminal fuse holder.. 2-16
Figure 2-25 Disconnecting the AC power........................................................ 2-16
Figure 2-26 Releasing the 7A current input fuse holder on the rear panel...... 2-17
Figure 2-27 Removing the 7A current input terminal fuse holder.................... 2-17
Figure 2-28 Removing and replacing the damaged fuse................................. 2-18
Figure 2-29 Reinserting and securing 7A current input terminal fuse holder .. 2-18
Figure 2-30 Front panel keys and terminals.................................................... 2-20
Figure 2-31 The display................................................................................... 2-22
Figure 2-32 Annunciators at the top................................................................ 2-22
Figure 2-33 Annunciators on the right ............................................................. 2-23
Figure 2-34 The rear panel.............................................................................. 2-23
List of Figures

List of Figures Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual
vi 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007
Section Figure Title Page
3Figure 3-1 Model 2100 DC connections.......................................................... 3-2
Figure 3-2 Model 2100 AC connections.......................................................... 3-2
Figure 3-3 Model 2100 rear panel input terminals........................................... 3-3
Figure 3-4 Model 2100 current measurement (front panel)............................. 3-4
Figure 3-5 Model 2100 current measurement................................................. 3-4
Figure 3-6 Model 2100 2-wire resistance........................................................ 3-5
Figure 3-7 Model 2100 4-wire resistance........................................................ 3-5
Figure 3-8 Model 2100 rear panel 2-wire resistance measurement................ 3-5
Figure 3-9 Model 2100 rear panel 4-wire resistance measurement................ 3-6
Figure 3-10 Model 2100 2-wire resistance / continuity...................................... 3-7
Figure 3-11 Model 2100 general purpose diode ............................................... 3-8
Figure 3-12 Theory diagram of 2-wire RTD measurement................................ 3-9
Figure 3-13 Theory diagram of 3-wire RTD measurement................................ 3-9
Figure 3-14 Theory diagram of 4-wire RTD measurement.............................. 3-10
4Figure 4-1 Setting Auto Zero and Auto Gain from the front panel................... 4-3
Figure 4-2 Setting the AC Filter using the front panel..................................... 4-5
Figure 4-3 Front panel resolution.................................................................... 4-7
Figure 4-4 Front panel DCV............................................................................ 4-8
Figure 4-5 Front panel threshold resistance.................................................... 4-9
Figure 4-6 Front panel auto-range ................................................................ 4-10
Figure 4-7 Front panel input switch terminals ............................................... 4-13
Figure 4-8 Trigger operation flow chart ......................................................... 4-14
Figure 4-9 Toggle auto triggering on and off ................................................. 4-15
Figure 4-10 Single trigger................................................................................ 4-16
Figure 4-11 Trig submenu............................................................................... 4-17
Figure 4-12 Reading hold................................................................................ 4-18
Figure 4-13 Setting delay time from the front panel........................................ 4-19
Figure 4-14 Making a Ratio measurement from the front panel...................... 4-20
Figure 4-15 Making a percent measurement from the front panel.................. 4-21
Figure 4-16 Using MIN/MAX from the front panel........................................... 4-22
Figure 4-17 Using the NULL function from the front panel.............................. 4-23
Figure 4-18 Configuring the Limits function from the front panel .................... 4-24
Figure 4-19 Making a limits test from the front panel ...................................... 4-25
Figure 4-20 Using the MX+B function from the front panel............................. 4-26
Figure 4-21 Setting the relative reference value ............................................. 4-27
Figure 4-22 Making a dB measurement from the front panel.......................... 4-27
Figure 4-23 Setting the reference resistance from the front panel.................. 4-28
Figure 4-24 Making a dBm measurement from the front panel....................... 4-29
Figure 4-25 The Model 2100 dot-matrix display screen.................................. 4-29
Figure 4-26 Controlling the display from the front panel ................................. 4-30
Figure 4-27 Controlling the beeper from the front panel ................................. 4-31
Figure 4-28 Storing readings from the front panel........................................... 4-32
Figure 4-29 Recalling readings from the front panel....................................... 4-33
Figure 4-30 Adjusting the sensitivity band from the front panel ...................... 4-34
Figure 4-31 Saving or restoring default settings.............................................. 4-35
Figure 4-32 Selecting a language ................................................................... 4-35
Figure 4-33 Checking the error queue ............................................................ 4-36
Figure 4-34 Checking the firmware revision.................................................... 4-37
Figure 4-35 Installing the Model 2100 firmware update ................................. 4-37
Figure 4-36 The Open dialog box.................................................................... 4-38
Figure 4-37 Model 2100 firmware upgrade in progress .................................. 4-38
Figure 4-38 Restart device to complete update message............................... 4-39
Figure 4-39 Viewing calibration information.................................................... 4-40

Section Table Title Page
2Table 2-1 Available voltage setting selectors for local line power requirements 2-6
Table 2-2 Factory default............................................................................. 2-18
4Table 4-1 Relationship of resolution to Auto Gain ......................................... 4-3
Table 4-2 AC filters default settings............................................................... 4-4
Table 4-3 Default factors.............................................................................. 4-11
Table 4-4 Default measurements................................................................. 4-18
Table 4-5 Valid values of Save Data............................................................ 4-34
5Table 5-1 USB connector pin out and designations....................................... 5-2
6Table 6-1 Execution error codes.................................................................... 6-2
List of Tables

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List of Tables Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual
viii 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007

Section 1
General Information
In this section:
Topic Page
Introduction ......................................................................................... 1-2
Feature overview ................................................................................ 1-2
Specifications...................................................................................... 1-3
Manual addenda ................................................................................. 1-3
Precautions for operation.................................................................... 1-3
Upkeep of the Model 2100.................................................................. 1-3
Safety information............................................................................... 1-4
Safety symbols and terms ............................................................ 1-4
Inspection for damage ........................................................................ 1-4
Shipment contents .............................................................................. 1-5
Instruction manual............................................................................... 1-5
Repacking for shipment ...................................................................... 1-5

1-2 Return to Section Topics 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007
Section 1: General Information Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual
Introduction
This section contains general information about the Keithley Instruments Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit
Resolution Digital Multimeter. The information is organized as follows:
•Feature overview
•Manual addenda
•Precautions for operation
•Upkeep of the Model 2100
•Safety information
•Inspection for damage
•Shipment contents
•Instruction manual
•Repacking for shipment
If you have any questions after reviewing this information, please contact your local Keithley
Instruments representative or call one of our Applications Engineers at 1-888-KEITHLEY
(1-888-534-8453). You can also contact us through our website at www.keithley.com.
Feature overview
Figure 1-1
The Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter
The Keithley Instruments Model 2100 is a rugged and versatile 6 1/2-digit resolution digital
multimeter. It has 0.003% one-year basic DC voltage accuracy at 10V range and 0.005% one-year
basic resistance accuracy at 10kΩrange. At 6 1/2 digits, the multimeter delivers 50 triggered
RDGS/sec via the USB remote interface. At the fast 4 1/2-digit setting, it reads over 2000 RDGS/
sec into its internal buffer.
• Resolution: 6 1/2 digits
• 5x7 dot-matrix VFD, dual displays with 3-color annunciators
• Eleven standard measurement functions and eight math functions
• Stability, accuracy, and speed
• Built-in USB interfaces
• DC voltage: 0.1V, 1V, 10V, 100V, and 1000V
• AC voltage: 0.1V, 1V, 10V, 100V, and 750V
• DC current: 10mA, 100mA, 1A, and 3A
• AC current: 1A, and 3A
• Two and 4-wire resistance: 100Ω, 1KΩ, 10KΩ, 100KΩ, 1MΩ, 10MΩ, and 100MΩ

2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007 Return to Section Topics 1-3
Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual Section 1: General Information
• Frequency: From 3Hz to 300kHz
• Period measurement
• Diode measurement
• Continuity measurement for resistance
Some additional capabilities of the Model 2100 include:
• Temperature measurement using RTDs
• Full math functions: dB, dBm, MX+B, ratio, percentage, Max/Min, null, and limits
• TMC compliant USB remote control interface for PC control
•Microsoft
® Office Word, and Excel add-in tools for remotely storing and recalling the
measured values from these applications
Specifications
Refer to Appendix A of this manual for complete Model 2100 specifications. Check the Keithley
Instruments website at www.keithley.com for the latest updates to the specifications.
Manual addenda
Any improvements or changes concerning the Model 2100 or manual will be explained in an
addendum included with the manual. Be sure to note these changes and incorporate them into the
manual.
Precautions for operation
• Please carefully read the manual before operating this device.
• This manual is for reference only. Please consult your local service representative for
further assistance.
• The contents of this manual may be amended by the manufacturer without notice.
• Never allow unauthorized personnel to dismantle the equipment, or equipment may be
damaged.
• The equipment has been strictly tested for quality before delivery from our factory.
• Do not use the meter around explosive gas or flammable vapors.
• The patent and related documents for the equipment belong to Keithley Instruments, Inc.
and may not be used by others without permission.
Upkeep of the Model 2100
• Although the Model 2100 multimeter is very durable and weather resistant, care should be
taken not to expose it to severe impacts or forces.
• Keep the Model 2100 away from water and damp environments.
• Calibration should be performed every year. Please contact your local service
representative for more information.
• If an incorrect display or abnormal beeps occur, you should stop using the equipment at
once and contact your local service representative.
• Wipe the surface of the Model 2100 multimeter with a dry or damp clean cloth to dust and
clean any residue from the enclosure.

1-4 Return to Section Topics 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007
Section 1: General Information Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual
Safety information
WARNING To avoid possible electric shock, personal injury, or death, please read and
follow these guidelines carefully:
• Follow the guidelines in this manual and DO NOT use the meter if the case is
damaged. Check the meter case and terminals, and make sure all the devices
are in the proper positions.
• Do not apply excessive voltage to the multimeter. Apply voltage within the
rated range only.
• Use caution when measuring voltages above 30V RMS, 42V peak, or 60V DC.
Higher voltages pose an electric shock hazard.
• When using the probes, always keep your fingers behind the finger guards.
• Always connect the common test leads (black) before connecting the live test
leads (red), and disconnect the live test leads (red) before disconnecting the
common test leads (black). This will reduce the chance of an electric shock.
• Disconnect circuit power and discharge all high-voltage capacitors before
testing resistance, continuity, diodes, or capacitance.
• Repairs must only be performed by qualified service personnel.
• When replacing fuses, use only the same type and same rating as specified.
Make sure the unit is disconnected from AC power and any external signals
first.
• Do not try to operate the meter if it is damaged. Disconnect the power from the
equipment and consult your local service representative. Return the product
to a Keithley Instruments service facility if necessary.
Safety symbols and terms
The following symbols and terms may be found on the Model 2100 or used in this manual.
The symbol indicates that the user should refer to the operating instructions located in the
manual.
The symbol shows that high voltage may be present on the terminal(s). Use standard safety
precautions to avoid personal contact with these voltages.
Inspection for damage
The Model 2100 was carefully inspected electrically and mechanically before shipment. After
unpacking all items from the shipping carton, check for any obvious signs of physical damage that
may have occurred during transit. Report any damage to the shipping agent immediately. Save the
original packing carton for possible future shipment.
!

2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007 Return to Section Topics 1-5
Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual Section 1: General Information
Shipment contents
The following items are included with every Model 2100 order:
• One Model 2100 Multimeter unit (112mm/4.4in (H) x 256mm/10.1in (W) x 375/14.75in (D),
4.1Kg/9lbs)
• One power line cord
• One USB cable
• Standard safety test leads
• One CD-ROM (including this electronic User's Manual and software applications)
Instruction manual
A CD-ROM containing this User’s Manual and required software and drivers is included with each
Model 2100 order.
Check the Keithley Instruments website at www.keithley.com for the latest revision of the manual.
The latest manual can be downloaded (in PDF format) from the website.
Repacking for shipment
Should it become necessary to return the Model 2100 for repair, carefully pack the unit in its
original packing carton or the equivalent, and follow these instructions:
• Call the Repair Department at 1-888-KEITHLEY (1-888-534-8453) for a Return Material
Authorization (RMA) number.
• Advise as to the warranty status of the Model 2100.
• Write ATTENTION REPAIR DEPARTMENT and the RMA number on the shipping label.
Complete and include the Service Form located at the back of this manual.

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1-6 Return to Section Topics 2100-900-01 Rev. B / July 2007
Section 1: General Information Model 2100 6 1/2-Digit Resolution Digital Multimeter User’s Manual