Keithley 2110 User manual

Reference Manual
2110-901-01 Rev. C / August 2013
*P211090101C*
2110-901-01
www.keithley.com
Model 2110 5½ Digit Multimeter
A Tektronix Company
A Greater Measure of Confidence

5½ Digit Multimeter
Reference Manual
© 2013, Keithley Instruments, Inc.
Cleveland, Ohio, U.S.A.
All rights reserved.
Any unauthorized reproduction, photocopy, or use of the information herein, in whole or in part,
without the prior written approval of Keithley Instruments, Inc. is strictly prohibited.
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.
Document number: 2110-901-01 Rev. C / August 2013
Model 2110

Safety precautions
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 nonhazardous 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 measurement, control, and data I/O
connections, with low transient overvoltages, and must not be directly connected to mains voltage or to voltage sources with high
transient overvoltages. Measurement Category II (as referenced in IEC 60664) connections require protection for high transient
overvoltages often associated with local AC mains connections. Certain Keithley measuring instruments may be connected to
mains. These instruments will be marked as category II or higher.
Unless explicitly allowed in the specifications, operating manual, and instrument labels, do not connect any instrument to mains.
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
30 V RMS, 42.4 V peak, or 60 VDC 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 1000 V, 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.

For safety, instruments and accessories must be used in accordance with the operating instructions. If the instruments or
accessories are used in a manner not specified in the operating instructions, the protection provided by 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 protective earth (safety 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 protective earth (safety ground) using the wire recommended in the user documentation.
The symbol on an instrument means caution, risk of danger. The user must refer to the operating instructions located in the
user documentation in all cases where the symbol is marked on the instrument.
The symbol on an instrument means caution, risk of electric shock. 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 of the product). If you are unsure about the
applicability of a replacement component, call a Keithley Instruments 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.
Safety precaution revision of January 2013.

Introduction...............................................................................................................1-1
Welcome .............................................................................................................................. 1-1
Contact information.............................................................................................................. 1-1
CD-ROM contents................................................................................................................ 1-2
Organization of manual sections.......................................................................................... 1-2
Capabilities and features...................................................................................................... 1-3
Measurement ranges and functions..........................................................................................1-4
Mathematical operations...........................................................................................................1-4
Startup software and PC utilities...............................................................................................1-4
Standard accessories................................................................................................................1-4
Optional accessories.................................................................................................................1-5
General information.............................................................................................................. 1-5
Displaying the instrument's serial number.................................................................................1-5
Dimensions ...............................................................................................................................1-5
Power-on settings .....................................................................................................................1-6
General specifications............................................................................................................... 1-7
General overview......................................................................................................2-1
Turning your instrument on and off...................................................................................... 2-1
Connecting line power...............................................................................................................2-1
Front panel overview............................................................................................................ 2-5
(1) Display.................................................................................................................................2-6
(2) The Power key.....................................................................................................................2-7
(3) The function and operation keys..........................................................................................2-7
(4) RANGE and scroll keys .....................................................................................................2-10
(5) TC input.............................................................................................................................2-10
(6) Terminals and fuses ..........................................................................................................2-10
(7) Menu overview...................................................................................................................2-10
Main menu .............................................................................................................................. 2-11
Rear panel overview .......................................................................................................... 2-18
(1) Voltmeter complete output terminal (VM COMP)...............................................................2-18
(2) External triggering input terminal (EXT TRIG) ...................................................................2-18
(3) USB connection.................................................................................................................2-18
(4) Protective earth (safety ground).........................................................................................2-19
(5) AC line receptacle, power line fuse, and line voltage setting.............................................2-19
(6) Interface port......................................................................................................................2-19
Rear panel connection details................................................................................................. 2-19
System operations ............................................................................................................. 2-20
Turning off measurement display............................................................................................2-21
Turning the beeper off or on....................................................................................................2-22
Selecting the initial operating mode........................................................................................2-23
Selecting the language............................................................................................................2-23
Viewing errors in the error queue............................................................................................2-24
Viewing system version...........................................................................................................2-24
Basic DMM operation ...............................................................................................3-1
Basic measurement functions.............................................................................................. 3-1
Voltage measurements.............................................................................................................3-1
Table of Contents

Table of Contents
Model 2110 5½ Digit Multimeter
Reference Manual
Ratio measurements................................................................................................................. 3-4
Current measurements .............................................................................................................3-6
Resistance measurements........................................................................................................3-9
Frequency and period measurements.....................................................................................3-12
Continuity measurements........................................................................................................3-15
Diode measurements..............................................................................................................3-15
Temperature measurement.....................................................................................................3-17
Capacitance measurements....................................................................................................3-24
Secondary measurement function...........................................................................................3-26
Triggering and data buffer.................................................................................................. 3-28
Front panel triggering..............................................................................................................3-29
Trigger model..........................................................................................................................3-29
Trigger settings .......................................................................................................................3-32
Data buffer..............................................................................................................................3-36
Enhancing measurement performance.............................................................................. 3-37
Autozero..................................................................................................................................3-38
Range selection ......................................................................................................................3-39
Resolution and integration time...............................................................................................3-41
Digital filter.............................................................................................................................. 3-47
Math operations ......................................................................................................................3-48
Theory of operation..................................................................................................4-1
AC voltage measurements and crest factor......................................................................... 4-1
DMM resistance measurement methods............................................................................. 4-3
Reference junctions ............................................................................................................. 4-4
Real (internal) reference junction..............................................................................................4-4
Simulated reference junction.....................................................................................................4-4
Accuracy calculations........................................................................................................... 4-5
Calculating DC and AC characteristics accuracy......................................................................4-5
Remote commands...................................................................................................5-1
Programming syntax............................................................................................................ 5-1
Command format used in this manual.......................................................................................5-1
Common commands............................................................................................................ 5-4
Common command summary...................................................................................................5-4
Common command reference...................................................................................................5-5
*CLS — clear status..................................................................................................................5-5
*ESE <NRf> — event enable command ...................................................................................5-5
*ESE? — event enable query....................................................................................................5-5
*ESR? — event status register query........................................................................................5-5
*IDN? — identification query.....................................................................................................5-6
*OPC — operation complete command....................................................................................5-6
*OPC? — operation complete query.........................................................................................5-6
*PSC <b> — power-on status clear ..........................................................................................5-7
*PSC? — power-on status clear query......................................................................................5-7
*RST — reset command...........................................................................................................5-7
*SRE <NRf> — service request enable command....................................................................5-8
*SRE? — service request enable command query...................................................................5-8
*STB? — status byte query.......................................................................................................5-8
*TRG — trigger command.........................................................................................................5-8
Introduction to SCPI language............................................................................................. 5-9
Topic overview..........................................................................................................................5-9
SCPI parameter types...............................................................................................................5-9

M
odel 2110 5½ Digit Multimeter Reference Manual Table
of Contents
Query commands....................................................................................................................5-10
Program messages.................................................................................................................5-10
Output Data............................................................................................................................. 5-12
SCPI signal-oriented measurement commands ................................................................ 5-13
:CONFigure:<function> [<range>|MIN|MAX|DEF,<resolution>|MIN|MAX|DEF]......................5-14
:FETCh[1|2]?...........................................................................................................................5-16
:INITiate...................................................................................................................................5-16
:READ[1|2]?............................................................................................................................5-17
:MEASure[:<function>]? <range>|MIN|MAX|DEF,<resolution>|MIN|MAX|DEF.......................5-18
SCPI command subsystem reference ............................................................................... 5-19
CALCulate subsystem summary.............................................................................................5-20
DISPlay subsystem summary .................................................................................................5-21
SENSe subsystem summary...................................................................................................5-21
STATus subsystem summary.................................................................................................5-25
SYSTem subsystem summary................................................................................................5-25
TRIGger subsystem summary.................................................................................................5-26
CALCulate subsystem........................................................................................................ 5-27
CALCulate:AVERage:AVERage? ...........................................................................................5-27
CALCulate:AVERage:COUNt?................................................................................................5-27
CALCulate:AVERage:MINimum?............................................................................................5-27
CALCulate:AVERage:MAXimum?...........................................................................................5-27
CALCulate:DB:REFerence <n>|MIN|MAX ..............................................................................5-28
CALCulate:DBM:REFerence <n>|MIN|MAX ...........................................................................5-28
CALCulate:FUNCtion <name>................................................................................................5-29
CALCulate:LIMit:LOWer <n>|MIN|MAX ..................................................................................5-29
CALCulate:LIMit:UPPer <n>|MIN|MAX...................................................................................5-30
CALCulate:MXB:MBFactor <n>|MIN|MAX..............................................................................5-30
CALCulate:MXB:MMFactor <n>|MIN|MAX..............................................................................5-31
CALCulate:NULL:OFFSet <n>|MIN|MAX................................................................................5-31
CALCulate:PERCent:TARGet <n>|MIN|MAX..........................................................................5-31
CALCulate:STATe <b> ...........................................................................................................5-32
DATA:FEED RDG_STORE,'CALCulate'|''...............................................................................5-32
DISPlay subsystem............................................................................................................ 5-33
DISPlay <b>............................................................................................................................5-33
DISPlay:TEXT <a>..................................................................................................................5-33
DISPlay:TEXT:CLEar..............................................................................................................5-34
SENSe subsystem ............................................................................................................. 5-34
[SENSe:]AVERage:COUNt <n>|MIN|MAX..............................................................................5-34
[SENSe:]AVERage:STATe <b> ..............................................................................................5-35
[SENSe:]AVERage:TCONtrol <name> ...................................................................................5-35
[SENSe:]CAPacitance:RANGe <n>|MIN|MAX........................................................................5-36
[SENSe:]CAPacitance:RANGe:AUTO <b> .............................................................................5-36
[SENSe:]CURRent:AC:RANGe <range>|MIN|MAX ................................................................5-37
[SENSe:]CURRent:AC:RESolution <n>|MIN|MAX..................................................................5-37
[SENSe:]CURRent[:DC]:NPLCycles <n>|MIN|MAX................................................................5-38
[SENSe:]CURRent[:DC]:RANGe <n>|MIN|MAX .....................................................................5-38
[SENSe:]CURRent[:DC]:RESolution <n>|MIN|MAX................................................................5-39
[SENSe:]CURRent:AC:RANGe:AUTO <b>.............................................................................5-39
[SENSe:]CURRent[:DC]:RANGe:AUTO <b>...........................................................................5-40
[SENSe:]DETector:BANDwidth <n>|MIN|MAX........................................................................5-40
[SENSe:]FRESistance:NPLCycles <n>|MIN|MAX ..................................................................5-41
[SENSe:]FRESistance:RANGe <n>|MIN|MAX........................................................................5-41
[SENSe:]FRESistance:RANGe:AUTO <b>.............................................................................5-42
[SENSe:]FRESistance:RESolution <n>|MIN|MAX ..................................................................5-42
[SENSe:]FREQuency:APERture <n>|MIN|MAX......................................................................5-43
[SENSe:]FREQuency:CURRent:RANGe <n>|MIN|MAX.........................................................5-43
[SENSe:]FREQuency:VOLTage:RANGe <n>|MIN|MAX.........................................................5-44
[SENSe:]FREQuency:VOLTage:RANGe:AUTO <b>..............................................................5-44

Table of Contents
Model 2110 5½ Digit Multimeter
Reference Manual
[SENSe:]FUNCtion [1|2] "<function>"......................................................................................5-45
[SENSe:]PERiod:APERture <n>|MIN|MAX.............................................................................5-46
[SENSe:]PERiod:VOLTage:RANGe <n>|MIN|MAX ................................................................5-46
[SENSe:]PERiod:VOLTage:RANGe:AUTO <b>......................................................................5-47
[SENSe:]RESistance:RANGe <n>|MIN|MAX..........................................................................5-47
[SENSe:]RESistance:RANGe:AUTO <b> ...............................................................................5-47
[SENSe:]RESistance:RESolution <n>|MIN|MAX ....................................................................5-48
[SENSe:]RESistance:NPLCycles <n>|MIN|MAX.....................................................................5-49
[SENSe:]TCOuple:RJUNction:REAL?..................................................................................... 5-49
[SENSe:]TCOuple:RJUNction:RSELect <name>....................................................................5-50
[SENSe:]TCOuple:RJUNction:SIMulated <n>|MIN|MAX.........................................................5-50
[SENSe:]TCOuple:TYPE <name>...........................................................................................5-51
[SENSe:]TEMPerature:NTCT:A <n>|MIN|MAX.......................................................................5-52
[SENSe:]TEMPerature:NTCT:B <n>|MIN|MAX.......................................................................5-52
[SENSe:]TEMPerature:NTCT:C <n>|MIN|MAX.......................................................................5-53
[SENSe:]TEMPerature:RTD:ALPHa <n>|MIN|MAX................................................................5-53
[SENSe:]TEMPerature:RTD:BETA <n>|MIN|MAX..................................................................5-54
[SENSe:]TEMPerature:RTD:DELTa <n>|MIN|MAX ................................................................5-54
[SENSe:]TEMPerature:RTD:TYPE <name> ...........................................................................5-55
[SENSe:]TEMPerature:RTD:RZERo <n>|MIN|MAX................................................................ 5-55
[SENSe:]TEMPerature:SPRTD:RZERo <n>|MIN|MAX...........................................................5-56
[SENSe:]TEMPerature:SPRTD:A4 <n>|MIN|MAX ..................................................................5-56
[SENSe:]TEMPerature:SPRTD:B4 <n>|MIN|MAX ..................................................................5-57
[SENSe:]TEMPerature:SPRTD:AX <n>|MIN|MAX..................................................................5-57
[SENSe:]TEMPerature:SPRTD:BX <n>|MIN|MAX..................................................................5-58
[SENSe:]TEMPerature:SPRTD:CX <n>|MIN|MAX..................................................................5-58
[SENSe:]TEMPerature:SPRTD:DX <n>|MIN|MAX..................................................................5-59
[SENSe:]TEMPerature:TRANsducer <name>.........................................................................5-59
[SENSe:]UNIT <name>...........................................................................................................5-60
[SENSe:]VOLTage:AC:RANGe <n>|MIN|MAX .......................................................................5-60
[SENSe:]VOLTage:AC:RANGe:AUTO <b>.............................................................................5-61
[SENSe:]VOLTage:AC:RESolution <n>|MIN|MAX..................................................................5-61
[SENSe:]VOLTage[:DC]:RANGe <n>MIN|MAX...................................................................... 5-62
[SENSe:]VOLTage[:DC]:RANGe:AUTO <b>...........................................................................5-62
[SENSe:]VOLTage[:DC]:NPLCycles <n>|MIN|MAX................................................................5-63
[SENSe:]VOLTage[:DC]:RESolution <n>|MIN|MAX................................................................5-64
[SENSe:]ZERO:AUTO <name> ..............................................................................................5-64
SYSTem subsystem........................................................................................................... 5-65
:BEEPer <b>...........................................................................................................................5-65
:DATA:POINts?.......................................................................................................................5-65
SYSTem:ERRor?....................................................................................................................5-65
SYSTem:IDNStr <string>........................................................................................................5-66
SYSTem:LOCal.......................................................................................................................5-66
SYSTem:REMote....................................................................................................................5-66
SYSTem:VERSion?................................................................................................................5-66
TRIGger subsystem........................................................................................................... 5-67
SAMPle:COUNt <n>|MIN|MAX ...............................................................................................5-67
TRIGger:COUNt <n>|MIN|MAX|INFinite.................................................................................5-68
TRIGger:DELay <n>|MIN|MAX...............................................................................................5-68
TRIGger:DELay:AUTO <b>.....................................................................................................5-69
TRIGger:SOURce <name>.....................................................................................................5-69
Troubleshooting guide.............................................................................................6-1
Troubleshooting ................................................................................................................... 6-1
Running a self-test............................................................................................................... 6-2
Error codes........................................................................................................................... 6-3

Model 211
0 5½ Digit Multimeter Reference Manual Table
of Contents
Next steps .................................................................................................................7-1
Additional Model 2110 information....................................................................................... 7-1
Maintenance..............................................................................................................A-1
Line fuse replacement..........................................................................................................A-1
Current input fuse replacement............................................................................................A-3
Upgrading the firmware........................................................................................................A-4
Status model.............................................................................................................B-1
Overview ..............................................................................................................................B-1
Status byte and SRQ ................................................................................................................B-1
Status register sets ...................................................................................................................B-1
Error Queue and Output Buffer.................................................................................................B-2
Clearing registers and queues.............................................................................................B-3
Programming enable registers.............................................................................................B-3
Reading registers.................................................................................................................B-3
Status byte and service request (SRQ) ...............................................................................B-4
Status Byte Register .................................................................................................................B-4
Service request.........................................................................................................................B-5
Status structure.........................................................................................................................B-6
Using serial polling and SRQ ....................................................................................................B-6
Status byte and service request commands..............................................................................B-7
Status register sets ..............................................................................................................B-8
Standard Event Register...........................................................................................................B-8
Questionable Data Register....................................................................................................B-10
Status reporting command summary.................................................................................B-10
Communication interface.........................................................................................C-1
Communication interfaces....................................................................................................C-1
Selecting an interface................................................................................................................C-1
USB communications................................................................................................................C-1
GPIB setup................................................................................................................................C-7
Supplied software....................................................................................................................C-11
Keithley I/O layer.....................................................................................................................C-14
Addressing instruments with VISA..........................................................................................C-18

In this section:
Welcome.................................................................................. 1-1
Contact information.................................................................. 1-1
CD-ROM contents.................................................................... 1-2
Organization of manual sections.............................................. 1-2
Capabilities and features.......................................................... 1-3
General information.................................................................. 1-5
Welcome
Thank you for using a Keithley Instruments product. The Model 2110 Digit Multimeter (DMM) features
12 measurement functions and 7 math functions, and has dual-line display capability, which allows it
to display two different measurements concurrently.
The Model 2110 provides superior measurement accuracy and speed necessary for a broad range of
applications, ranging from production testing to bench-top applications. The Model 2110 meets
application requirements for production engineers, research and development engineers, test
engineers, scientists, students and anyone else making measurements in either system applications
or on the bench.
Contact information
If you have any questions after reviewing this information, please use the following sources:
1. Keithley Instruments website (http://www.keithley.com).
2. Keithley web forum (http://forum.keithley.com).
3. Call Keithley Instruments corporate headquarters (toll-free inside the U.S. and Canada only) at
1-888-KEITHLEY (1-888-534-8453), or from outside the U.S. at [phone]. For worldwide
contact numbers, visit the Keithley Instruments website (http://www.keithley.com).
Section 1
Introduction

Section
1: Introduction Model 2110 5½ Digit Multimeter
Reference Manual
1-2 2110-901-01 Rev. C/August 2013
CD-ROM contents
A CD-ROM is shipped with each Model 2110 order.
The Model 2110 Product Information CD-ROM contains:
•Reference Manual: Includes a description of connections, operation information, programming
information, and maintenance information. Users looking for basic operating information,
programmers looking for a command reference, and users looking for an in-depth description of
the way the instrument works (including troubleshooting and optimization) should refer to the
Reference Manual.
•Calibration Manual: Includes procedures to verify that the Model 2110 accuracy is within the
limits stated in the instrument’s one-year accuracy specifications.
•Drivers and release notes: IVI Instrument Driver, driver for National Instruments LabVIEW™,
and related release notes.
•Keithley I/O layer and release notes.
•Start-up Software and PC Utilities: Includes KI-Tool and KI-Link application and Microsoft®
Excel Add-In utility.
•Additional product information: The product specifications are also included on the CD-ROM.
For the latest drivers and additional support information, see the Keithley Instruments website
(http://www.keithley.com).
Organization of manual sections
The information in this manual is organized into the following major categories:
•General overview: Describes the components of the instrument and basic operation.
•Basic DMM operation: Introduces some basic measurement functions of the instrument. You will
learn how to use your instrument to measure voltage, current, resistance, frequency, period,
continuity, diodes, capacitance, and temperature. You will learn about triggering and data
buffering. You will also learn about enhancing measurement performance.
•Theory of operation: Describes basic DMM measurement techniques and concepts.
•Remote commands: Describes the IEEE Std 488.2 common commands. Provides an
alphabetical listing of all commands available for the Model 2110. Provides information about
using remote commands to control the instrument.
•Troubleshooting guide: Describes self-test procedure and error codes.
•Maintenance: Information on instrument maintenance, including line fuse replacement and
firmware upgrades.
•Status model: Description of the Model 2110 status model.
Bookmarks for each section of this manual are provided in the PDF version of the documentation.
The manual sections are also listed in the Table of Contents located at the beginning of this manual.
For more information about bookmarks, see Adobe®Acrobat®or Reader®help.

Model 2110
5½ Digit Multimeter Reference Manual Section 1:
Introduction
2110-901-01 Rev. C/August 2013 1-3
Capabilities and features
The Keithley Instruments Model 2110 is a rugged and versatile 5½-digit resolution digital multimeter
with a dual-line liquid-crystal display (LCD), built-in USB interface, and optional GPIB interface.
The Model 2110 has 0.0012% one-year basic DC voltage accuracy and 0.020% one-year basic
resistance accuracy up to the 1 MΩrange. At 5½ digits, the Model 2110 delivers over 200 readings
per second via the USB remote interface. At the fast 4½ digit setting, readings can be stored
internally at a rate of 50,000 per second. This is ideal for production applications and monitoring
applications, where speed is critical.
Figure 1: Keithley Model 2110 5 ½ Digit Multimeter

Section
1: Introduction Model 2110 5½ Digit Multimeter
Reference Manual
1-4 2110-901-01 Rev. C/August 2013
Measurement ranges and functions
The Model 2110 provides a wide number of measurement ranges and functions including:
•DC voltage: 0.1 V, 1 V, 10 V, 100 V, and 1000 V
•AC voltage: 0.1 V, 1 V, 10 V, 100 V, and 750 V
•DC current: 10 mA, 100 mA, 1 A, 3 A, and 10 A
•AC current: 1 A, 3 A, and 10 A
•Two and 4-wire resistance: 100 Ω, 1 kΩ, 10 kΩ, 100 kΩ, 1 MΩ, 10 MΩ, and 100 MΩ
•Frequency: 3 Hz to 300 kHz
•Capacitance measurement: 1 nF, 10 nF, 100 nF, 1 μF, 10 μF, 100 μF, 1 mF, 10 mF
•Temperature measurement using RTDs, thermistors, and thermocouples (direct measurement
using built-in cold junction compensation to improve accuracy); supports J-, R-, S-, T-, E-, N-, B-,
C-, and K-type thermocouples
•Period measurement
•Diode measurement
•Continuity measurement
•Programmable A-D converter and filter settings for signal-to-noise optimization
Mathematical operations
The Model 2110 allows you to perform the following seven mathematical operations on measurement
readings: Percentage, Average (Min/Max, Count), NULL, Limits, mX+b, dB, and dBm.
Startup software and PC utilities
The following start-up software and PC utilities are included:
•KI-Tool and KI-Link software allow you to quickly control the instrument over GPIB (if equipped)
or USB, record measurements, and display time-series plots of the data. KI-Link is an add in for
Microsoft®Word and Microsoft Excel.
•LabVIEWTM and IVI drivers allow more advanced customers even more control over the
instrument.
Standard accessories
The following standard accessories are supplied with the Model 2110.
•Safety test leads
•USB cable
•Power cable

Model 2110
5½ Digit Multimeter Reference Manual Section 1:
Introduction
2110-901-01 Rev. C/August 2013 1-5
Optional accessories
The following optional accessories are available for the Model 2110.
Keithley part number Optional accessory
4299-3
Single Rack Mount Kit
4299-4
Dual Rack Mount Kit
4299-7
Dual Fixed Rack Mount Kit
8605
High Performance Modular Test Leads
8606
High Performance Modular Probe Kit
5805
Kelvin Probes, 0.9 m (3 ft)
5805-12
Kelvin Probes, 3.6 m (12 ft)
5808
Low Cost, Single Pin, Kelvin Probes
5809
Low Cost, Kelvin Clip Lead Set
8680
RTD Probe Adapter
8681
Low Cost RTD
7007-1
Shielded GPIB Cable, 1 m (3.3 ft)
7007-2
Shielded GPIB Cable, 2 m (6.6 ft)
6517-TP
Thermocouple Bead Probe (K-Type)
General information
Displaying the instrument's serial number
To display the serial number on the front panel:
1. If the Model 2110 is in remote operation, press the SHIFT (LOCAL) key once to place the
instrument in local operation.
2. Press the SHIFT key.
3. Press the CONFIG (MENU) key. The display shows MENU.
4. Use the right and left RANGE keys to display SYSTEM.
5. Press the ENTER key.
6. Use the right and left RANGE keys to display SERIAL.
7. Press the ENTER key. The display shows the serial number on the second row.
Dimensions
The following figure shows dimensions for the Model 2110. The figure includes designators to
indicate:
1. Dimensions without the handle and the front and rear bumpers.
2. Dimensions with the handle and the front and rear bumpers.
3. Dimensions with the front and rear bumpers, but without the handle.

Section
1: Introduction Model 2110 5½ Digit Multimeter
Reference Manual
1-6 2110-901-01 Rev. C/August 2013
Figure 2: Dimensions
Power-on settings
See the following table for information about the Model 2110 factory default settings. These settings
are also restored when the instrument is turned on and when the instrument receives a *RST
command from a remote interface.
Function Default
Function displayed after the instrument is turned on
DC voltage
Auto zero
ON
Frequency and period source
AC voltage
Output format
ASCII
Ratio
OFF
AC voltage
Frequency
20 Hz
AC digits
5.5
Range
10 V
DC voltage
DC digits
5.5 (1 PLC)
Range
1 V
AC current
Frequency
20 Hz
AC digits
5.5
Range
1 A
DC current
DC digits
5.5 (1 PLC)
Range
1 A
Frequency and period
Digits
5.5
Range
10 V
Gate time
0.1 s
Capacitance
Digits
4.5
Range 10 nF

Model 2110
5½ Digit Multimeter Reference Manual Section 1:
Introduction
2110-901-01 Rev. C/August 2013 1-7
Function Default
Diode test
Digits
5.5
Range
1 mA
Rate
0.2 PLC
Resistance
Digits
5.5 (1 PLC)
Range
1 k
Ω
Temperature
Digits
4.5 (1 PLC)
Thermocouple
K type
Triggers
Source
Immediate
Delay
Auto
Input resistance
10 M
Ω
General specifications
Item Limitation and description
Input bias current <30 pA at 25 °C
Input protection 1000 V all ranges (2W input)
AC CMRR 70 dB (for 1 kΩunbalanced LO lead)
Power supply 100 V, 120 V, 220 V (230 V), 240 V ±10%
Power line frequency 50/60 Hz auto detected ±10%
Power consumption 25 VA maximum
Digital I/O interface USB-compatible type B connection, GPIB (optional)
Environment For indoor use only
Operating temperature 0 °C to 40 °C
Operating humidity Maximum relative humidity 80% for temperature up to 31 °C
Storage temperature -40 °C to 70 °C
Operating altitude Up to 2000 m above sea level
Bench dimensions 107 mm high × 252.8 mm wide × 305 mm deep (3.49 in. × 9.95 in. ×
12.00 in.)
(with handles and bumpers)
Weight 2.23 kg (4.92 lb)
Safety Conforms to European Union Low Voltage Directive
UL listed to UL 61010-1: 2004
Pollution degree
2
EMC
Conforms to European Union EMC Directive
Warranty One year

In this section:
Turning your instrument on and off.......................................... 2-1
Front panel overview................................................................ 2-5
Rear panel overview .............................................................. 2-18
System operations ................................................................. 2-20
Turning your instrument on and off
The following topics describe how to power your instrument on and off and configure the line voltage.
Connecting line power
Follow the procedure below to connect the Model 2110 to line power and to turn on the instrument.
The Model 2110 operates from a line voltage of 100 V to 240 V at a frequency of 50 Hz or 60 Hz. Line
voltage is set on the rear panel. Make sure the operating voltage in your area is compatible.
Make sure the instrument is positioned so that it is easy to reach any disconnecting devices, such as
the power cord and the power switch.
Operating the instrument on an incorrect line voltage may cause damage to the instrument, possibly
voiding the warranty.
Remove voltage from the front panel input terminals before switching the equipment off. Failure to do
so could result in the equipment being damaged.
To turn a Model 2110 on and off:
1. Before plugging in the power cord, make sure that the front-panel POWER switch is in the OFF
position.
2. Connect the Model 2110 protective earth (safety ground) located on the rear panel (see Rear
panel overview (on page 2-18)).
3. Connect the female end of the supplied power cord to the AC receptacle on the rear panel.
4. Connect the male end of the power cord to a grounded AC outlet.
Section 2
General overview