Attenuators

Image Part Number Description / PDF Quantity Rfq
R411810121

R411810121

Radiall USA, Inc.

ATT SMA.75 10DB 18GHZ 2W

4

R412710124

R412710124

Radiall USA, Inc.

ATT N 10DB 6 GHZ 1W

8

R412403124

R412403124

Radiall USA, Inc.

ATT BNC 3DB 3 GHZ 1W

10

R413810115

R413810115

Radiall USA, Inc.

ATT SMA.86 10DB 4GHZ 2W

5

R411800121

R411800121

Radiall USA, Inc.

ATT SMA.75 0 DB 18GHZ 2W

10

R412720124

R412720124

Radiall USA, Inc.

ATT N 20DB 6 GHZ 1W

13

R415720000

R415720000

Radiall USA, Inc.

ATT N 20DB 8GHZ 10W

10

R411820124

R411820124

Radiall USA, Inc.

ATT SMA.75 20DB 6GHZ 1W

2

R414710000

R414710000

Radiall USA, Inc.

ATT N 10DB 12.4GHZ 2W

5

R499103000

R499103000

Radiall USA, Inc.

PHASE SHIFT M-F 0-18GHZ

4

R412420124

R412420124

Radiall USA, Inc.

ATT BNC 20DB 3 GHZ 1W

5

R413806000

R413806000

Radiall USA, Inc.

ATT SMA.86 6DB 18GHZ 2W

5

R413820115

R413820115

Radiall USA, Inc.

ATT SMA.86 20DB 4GHZ 2W

11

R413810000

R413810000

Radiall USA, Inc.

ATT SMA.86 10DB 18GHZ 2W

10

R413820000

R413820000

Radiall USA, Inc.

ATT SMA.86 20DB 18GHZ 2W

5

R413808115

R413808115

Radiall USA, Inc.

ATT SMA.86 8DB 4GHZ 2W

10

R411810124

R411810124

Radiall USA, Inc.

ATT SMA.75 10DB 6GHZ 1W

12

Attenuators

1. Overview

RF (Radio Frequency)/IF (Intermediate Frequency) attenuators and RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) attenuators are passive or active devices designed to reduce signal strength in wireless communication systems. They play a critical role in signal conditioning, impedance matching, and protecting sensitive components from over-power conditions. These attenuators are essential in ensuring optimal performance in modern communication systems, test equipment, and RFID networks.

2. Major Types and Functional Classification

TypeFunctional FeaturesApplication Examples
Fixed AttenuatorsProvide constant attenuation across defined frequency bandsSignal leveling in base stations
Variable AttenuatorsAdjustable attenuation via manual/electronic controlCalibration in test instruments
Digital Step Attenuators (DSA)Programmable attenuation steps with digital interfaces5G beamforming systems
Surface Mount AttenuatorsMiniaturized SMD packages for PCB integrationIoT module signal conditioning
Waveguide AttenuatorsHigh-power handling for microwave frequenciesSatellite communication systems

3. Structure and Components

Typical RF/IF attenuators consist of: - Resistive Networks: Pi/T-type configurations using thin-film resistors - Dielectric Materials: Alumina or ceramic substrates for RF stability - Connectors: SMA, N-Type, or waveguide ports with 50/75 impedance - Housing: Aluminum alloy enclosures for EMI shielding - Thermal Management: Heat sinks or thermal vias for power dissipation

4. Key Technical Parameters

ParameterDescriptionImportance
Frequency RangeOperational bandwidth (e.g., 0.1 6 GHz)Determines application compatibility
Attenuation RangeSignal reduction capacity (e.g., 0 30 dB)Defines dynamic range control
Power HandlingMax average/Peak power (e.g., 2W/10W)Prevents thermal damage
VSWRVoltage Standing Wave Ratio (e.g., <1.5:1)Indicates impedance matching quality
Insertion LossPassive signal loss at minimum attenuationAffects system efficiency
Temperature StabilityAttenuation drift over temperature (e.g., 0.05 dB/ C)Ensures consistent performance

5. Application Fields

Key industries include: - Telecommunications: 5G/4G base stations, fiber optic networks - Test & Measurement: Spectrum analyzers, signal generators - Medical: MRI RF chain protection - Automotive: V2X communication systems - RFID Systems: Reader power calibration, tag detection range control

Case Example: In UHF RFID systems (860 960 MHz), fixed attenuators ensure consistent read range by limiting backscatter interference.

6. Leading Manufacturers and Products

ManufacturerRepresentative ProductKey Specifications
Keysight Technologies8491B Waveguide Attenuator2.6 40 GHz, 10W average power
Analog DevicesADL5240 DSA0.1 4 GHz, 31.5 dB range (0.5 dB steps)
Mini-CircuitsVAT-2+DC 8 GHz, 0 20 dB manual attenuation
Bourns Inc.RCAT24502.4 5 GHz, 0402 SMD package

7. Selection Guidelines

Key considerations: 1. Match frequency range and impedance (50/75 ) 2. Calculate required attenuation range with safety margin 3. Verify power handling (consider peak pulses in RFID) 4. Environmental factors (temperature, vibration) 5. Package type (coaxial/SMD/waveguide) 6. Cost vs. precision trade-offs ( 0.5 dB vs. 2 dB tolerance)

8. Industry Trends

Emerging trends include: - Development for mmWave (24 100 GHz) 5G systems - Integration with MEMS for reconfigurable RF front-ends - Increased adoption of absorbing materials for size reduction - Growing demand for RFID-specific IC-integrated attenuators - Advancements in thermal management for high-power GaN systems

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