subject: How to search for RF Attenuators? [print this page] How to search for RF Attenuators? How to search for RF Attenuators?
An RF Attenuator is an electronic device that reduces the amplitude or power of a high frequency signal with minimal distortion. Attenuators are used for a number of applications, the most common being to reduce the amplitude of an incoming signal, which may be too high to process.
There are thousands of made by many manufacturers. To find an attenuator that that meets your requirement you need to know certain key parameters before you begin your search. A few key parameters being:
Type of Attenuators: There a number of types of RF and microwave attenuators:
Fixed Attenuators: These attenuators have a fixed attenuation value for a set frequency range.
Variable Attenuators: Variable attenuators, like the name suggests are attenuators whose attenuation can be changed by varying the voltage or current to the device. These are used in application where it is required to continuously vary the signal level.
Step Attenuators: These are attenuators whose attenuation can be modified in fixed steps. These have many applications especially in test labs where different attenuation levels are required for testing different circuits.
Programmable Attenuators: These attenuators are programmed to provide a certain level of attenuation.
Frequency: This is the frequency range over which the attenuator can operate with while providing a constant level of attenuation with minimal reflections.
Attenuation: This is the ratio of the output and input power levels and is usually represented in decibels (dB).
Power: The level of power that an attenuator can handle is the amount of power the device can dissipate while maintaining the signal integrity i.e the Attenuation level with minimal reflections.
Impedance: The impedance of an attenuator must match the circuit/system it is connected to; this will minimize any reflection within the circuit/system. Usually the impedance is 50 Ohms or 75 Ohms.
Package Type: RF Attenuators are available in various package types depending on the application Connectorized attenuators are the most common and are available with various connector options SMA, N Type, BNC etc., surface mount attenuators are used in circuits and Bench top attenuators are used in labs for test and measurement.
Other Parameters: There are a number of other parameters that are used to search for attenuators - Voltage, Bits, Directionality etc.
There are many types of rf attenuators such as fixed attenuators, variable attenuators, step attenuators etc. available from manufacturers. Each manufacturer maintains a catalog or website where users can access their list of attenuators, however going through multiple catalogs or websites to find an attenuator you need is a tedious and time consuming task.
There are some online resources that compile all this information from multiple manufacturers and make it searchable to users by specification. Using these online resources can save you time and the hassle of looking through individual catalogs/websites to find the component you need.
