Attenuators
The Attenuators category groups together passive devices designed to reduce the level of an electrical or RF signal in a controlled manner without altering its fundamental characteristics. It includes fixed, variable, programmable, coaxial or power attenuators, suitable for both low-frequency and microwave measurements.
These components are essential for protecting sensitive instruments, adapting signal levels to measurement ranges and guaranteeing test accuracy. In RF and microwave testing, they help control the dynamics of spectrum analysers, VNAs and EMI receivers. In power electronics, they dissipate excess energy during high-amplitude measurements.
The quality of an attenuator is judged by its nominal accuracy, thermal stability, characteristic impedance (often 50? or 75?), bandwidth and power handling. In R&D and metrology, they ensure reproducibility of measurements and compliance with calibration standards.
Used in telecoms, defence, aeronautics and automated test benches, attenuators are a key element in the measurement chain, guaranteeing equipment safety and reliable results.
N9356B
KEYSIGHT / AGILENT / HP
Attenuator with low insertion loss and fast response time.
DPSP
ROHDE & SCHWARZ
Manual and programmable attenuator, DC to 2.7 GHz, 0 to -139 dBm.
11852B
KEYSIGHT / AGILENT / HP
50/75 Ohms minimum loss attenuator for 75 Ohms devices.
84906L
KEYSIGHT / AGILENT / HP
Programmable attenuator, DC to 40 GHz, 90 dB in 10 dB steps.
84904L
KEYSIGHT / AGILENT / HP
Programmable attenuator, DC to 40 GHz, 11 dB in 1 dB steps.
R382A
KEYSIGHT / AGILENT / HP
Direct-reading precision attenuator, 0-50 dB, 26.5-40 GHz.
8492A
KEYSIGHT / AGILENT / HP
Coaxial attenuator offering precise attenuation and a flat frequency response.
33322H
KEYSIGHT / AGILENT / HP
Programmable attenuator from 0 to 18 GHz in 10 dB steps.
33320H
KEYSIGHT / AGILENT / HP
Remote 18 GHz, 11 dB attenuator for accurate measurements.
84904K
KEYSIGHT / AGILENT / HP
Programmable attenuator, DC to 26.5 GHz, 11 dB, SMA connector.
84907L
KEYSIGHT / AGILENT / HP
Programmable attenuator for coaxial measurements up to 40 GHz.
8496A
KEYSIGHT / AGILENT / HP
HYPER variable attenuator, 1W0/110dB, 10dB per step, BP=DC/4GHz, 50 Ohms.
concrete questions about Attenuators
01
1. Why can an attenuator improve a measurement rather than degrade it?Because an instrument that is saturated or close to its dynamic limits delivers false results. The attenuator returns the signal to a linear operating range, which improves the actual accuracy of the measurement, even if the level is reduced.
02
2. What are the risks of using an inappropriate attenuator?An unsuitable attenuator can introduce reflections, impedance mismatch or thermal drift. This results in level errors, frequency ripples or unstable measurements, which are sometimes difficult to diagnose.
03
3. Why is power handling a critical criterion?Because an undersized attenuator can heat up, drift or be destroyed without any immediate sign. Even if there is no visible fault, heating alters the actual attenuation and distorts the results, particularly during prolonged or repeated measurements.
04
4. Fixed or variable attenuator: how to choose?A fixed attenuator offers greater stability and repeatability. Variable models provide flexibility, but often at the cost of lower accuracy. The choice depends on the need: strict metrology or operational adjustment.
05
5. Should the attenuator be considered a traceable element?Yes, as long as it is part of a critical measurement chain. In metrology or qualification, the attenuator must be characterised and included in the overall uncertainty, in the same way as the main instrument.
