Attenuators

Image Part Number Description / PDF Quantity Rfq
ATN3580-12

ATN3580-12

Skyworks Solutions, Inc.

RF ATTENUATOR 12DB MODULE

0

ATN3580-09

ATN3580-09

Skyworks Solutions, Inc.

RF ATTENUATOR 9DB MODULE

1000

ATN3580-04

ATN3580-04

Skyworks Solutions, Inc.

RF ATTENUATOR 4DB MODULE

0

SKY12146-321LF

SKY12146-321LF

Skyworks Solutions, Inc.

RF ATTENUATOR 20DB 50OHM 12WFQFN

33000

SKY12228-12LF

SKY12228-12LF

Skyworks Solutions, Inc.

RF ATTENUATOR 18.5DB 50OHM 8SOIC

0

AA264-87LF

AA264-87LF

Skyworks Solutions, Inc.

RF ATTEN 2DB-30DB 50OHM 16TSSOP

0

SKY12328-350LF

SKY12328-350LF

Skyworks Solutions, Inc.

RF ATTENUATOR 15.5DB 50OHM 16QFN

0

SKY12323-303LF

SKY12323-303LF

Skyworks Solutions, Inc.

RF ATTENUATOR 1-31DB 50OHM 10SOP

0

AA103-72LF

AA103-72LF

Skyworks Solutions, Inc.

RF ATTENUATOR 10DB 50OHM SC74A

0

SKY12345-362LF

SKY12345-362LF

Skyworks Solutions, Inc.

RF ATTENUATOR 0.5-15.5DB 24VFQFN

0

AA109-310LF

AA109-310LF

Skyworks Solutions, Inc.

RF ATTENUATOR 31DB 50OHM 32VFQFN

0

AV113-12LF

AV113-12LF

Skyworks Solutions, Inc.

RF ATTENUATOR 18DB 50OHM 8SOIC

0

SKY12332-310LF

SKY12332-310LF

Skyworks Solutions, Inc.

RF ATTENUATOR 31.5DB 50OHM 32QFN

0

AV101-12LF

AV101-12LF

Skyworks Solutions, Inc.

RF ATTENUATOR 25DB 50OHM 8SOIC

0

SKY12334-362LF

SKY12334-362LF

Skyworks Solutions, Inc.

RF ATTENUATOR 15.5DB 50OHM 24QFN

0

AA101-80LF

AA101-80LF

Skyworks Solutions, Inc.

RF ATTENUATOR 31DB 50OHM 16SSOP

0

AA104-73LF

AA104-73LF

Skyworks Solutions, Inc.

RF ATTENUATOR 32DB 50OHM SOT23-6

0

AA105-86LF

AA105-86LF

Skyworks Solutions, Inc.

RF ATTENUATOR 15DB 50OHM 10TFSOP

0

SKY12235-11

SKY12235-11

Skyworks Solutions, Inc.

RF ATTENUATOR 36DB 50OHM 8TLGA

0

AV102-12LF

AV102-12LF

Skyworks Solutions, Inc.

RF ATTENUATOR 18.5-25DB 8SOIC

0

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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