Attenuators

Image Part Number Description / PDF Quantity Rfq
AT-263-PIN

AT-263-PIN

Metelics (MACOM Technology Solutions)

ATTENUATOR,RF,DIGITAL,

98

MAATCC0010

MAATCC0010

Metelics (MACOM Technology Solutions)

ATTENUATOR 5 BIT 1DB STEP DC-3GH

1502576

MAAD-009194-000100

MAAD-009194-000100

Metelics (MACOM Technology Solutions)

ATTEN,DIG,5 BIT,31DB,CONST PHASE

1

MAATCC0010TR

MAATCC0010TR

Metelics (MACOM Technology Solutions)

ATTENUATOR

975

AT20-0273

AT20-0273

Metelics (MACOM Technology Solutions)

ATTENUATOR,DIGITAL,

9

AT-273-PIN

AT-273-PIN

Metelics (MACOM Technology Solutions)

ATTENUATOR,RF,DIGITAL,

50

MAAD-009195-000100

MAAD-009195-000100

Metelics (MACOM Technology Solutions)

ATTEN,DIG,5BIT,15.5 DB,CONST PHA

10

MAATCC0009TR

MAATCC0009TR

Metelics (MACOM Technology Solutions)

ATTENUATOR,DRIVER

1000

MAAD-009260-000100

MAAD-009260-000100

Metelics (MACOM Technology Solutions)

ATTEN,DIGITAL,2 BIT,32 DB, CONST

9

MAATCC0013

MAATCC0013

Metelics (MACOM Technology Solutions)

SOT,QUAD,VVA,LEAD FREE VERSION O

521

MAAVSS0007TR-3000

MAAVSS0007TR-3000

Metelics (MACOM Technology Solutions)

RF ATTENUATOR 40DB 50OHM 8SOIC

0

MAAVSS0007TR

MAAVSS0007TR

Metelics (MACOM Technology Solutions)

RF ATTENUATOR 50OHM 8SOIC

0

MAAVSS0005TR-3000

MAAVSS0005TR-3000

Metelics (MACOM Technology Solutions)

RF ATTENUATOR 12DB 50OHM TO253-4

0

MAAVSS0005TR

MAAVSS0005TR

Metelics (MACOM Technology Solutions)

RF ATTENUATOR 12DB 50OHM TO253-4

0

MAAV-007090-000100

MAAV-007090-000100

Metelics (MACOM Technology Solutions)

VOLTAGE VARIABLE ATTENUATOR.

0

CG30

CG30

Metelics (MACOM Technology Solutions)

ATTENUATOR,VOLTAGE CONTROLLED

0

MAAV-011013

MAAV-011013

Metelics (MACOM Technology Solutions)

RF ATTENUATOR 36DB 50OHM 16VFQFN

0

MAAVSS0005

MAAVSS0005

Metelics (MACOM Technology Solutions)

RF ATTENUATOR 12DB 50OHM TO253-4

0

MAATCC0013TR

MAATCC0013TR

Metelics (MACOM Technology Solutions)

ATTENUATOR

0

MAT10230

MAT10230

Metelics (MACOM Technology Solutions)

ATTENUATOR,DIE,23DB

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

RFQ BOM Call Skype Email
Top