New Relay Controlled Programmable Attenuators Offer Precision Stepped Attenuation Levels up to 127 dB 

Fairview Microwave Inc., an Infinite Electronics brand and a leading provider of on-demand RF and microwave components, has introduced a new line of relay controlled programmable attenuators that offer accurate and stable performance with very low harmonic distortion (IMD) and cover multiple RF frequency bands down to DC.

They are popular for use in military and commercial satellite and ground communication systems, cable modem and cellular telephone testing, radar, telecommunications and automatic test equipment (ATE). Typical applications include signal conditioning and level control, matching impedances of sources and loads, and measuring the gain or loss of two-port devices. 

Fairview’s new line of relay controlled programmable attenuators consists of six models that cover broad frequency bands from DC to 2000 MHz with attenuation levels ranging from 0 to 127 dB. These attenuator designs have 6 to 8 relay bits with attenuation steps ranging from 0.25 dB to 64 dB for precise tuning capability, depending on the model.

Typical performance includes low insertion loss ranging from 0.8 to 3.5 dB, input power up to 1-watt CW and attenuation accuracy of +/- 0.5 dB. Models are offered in 50 and 75 Ohm configurations and feature bidirectional performance capability for added convenience.

“This line of relay controlled programmable attenuators gives designers a complete selection of accurately controlled attenuation step sizes needed for signal conditioning and testing applications. For additional accessibility, all models are in stock and ready to ship,” said Tim Galla, Product Manager.

These attenuator assemblies are available in rugged, nickel-plated brass packages with either female F-type or SMA connectors. Each relay bit has a designated RFI pin with a DC bias of +12 Vdc and 15 to 30 Ma, depending on the model. All models have an operational temperature range of -20°C to +85°C, are RoHS compliant and export-rated as EAR99.

Fairview Microwave’s new relay controlled programmable attenuators are in stock and ready for immediate shipment with no minimum order quantity. 

For detailed information on these products, please visit fairviewmicrowave.com