AT-203(40)

Introduction: Attenuators are devices used to reduce the magnitude of a signal. They are commonly used to adjust the level of a signal to match the output to an applied destination. The AT-203(40) is a programmable, high power, precision, broadband attenuator used for applications such as RF and microwave measurements, communications systems, laboratory testing and production line testing.

AT-203(40) Application Field: The AT-203(40) attenuator provides a wide range of applications in industry and scientific research. It can be used in radios, radar systems, military and defense, satellite communication, communication devices, test systems, and production systems for signal tests. It also enables applications such as high accuracy calibration of Power amplifiers (PAs) and to set power levels of transmitters including mobile radio base stations alongside point-to-point systems. The AT-203(40) programmable attenuator is designed to be used in a wide variety of industries such as aerospace, communications, medical, scientific research, automotive, and industrial.

Working Principle: The AT-203(40) programmable attenuator operates under the principle of equal wheel resistance. This principle helps maintain an even power transfer across all desired frequency ranges. The attenuator utilizes two impedance wheels in series to control the electrical signal. The first wheel controls the signal level when the signal is in the low frequency range, while the other wheel can control the signal power in the high frequency range. The attenuator has been designed to provide wide-band performance at a very high level of accuracy, with an excellent power-to-noise figure.

Attenuation: The AT-203(40) offers an attenuation range of 25dB-125dB. This range allows a maximum throughput of 250 Watts of signal power. The signal consists of a maximum output of 6dBm up to 4GHz with attenuation down to 3dBm. An Attenuation variable of 20dB is available, with a frequency range of DC to 4GHz, with a dual Input and Output impedance of 50Ώ.

Control System: The AT-203(40) attenuator can be programmed with 25 cps to 4GHz frequency range. The dual wheels can be controlled by a control system, either manually or digitally. This control system has an internal reference clock and allows operation up to 4GHz with a linearity of +/-1.5dB (@ 0-2GHz & 2-4GHz). The control system is very sensitive and the attenuator provides uniform frequency selection from 25 cps to 4GHz.

Matching Networks: The AT-203(40) attenuator is available with a variety of matching networks allowing flexibility in the applications. The matching networks are designed to maximize the overall output power, reduce harmonic spurious, and improve system integrity. The matching networks are designed with linear and non-linear elements which can be configured to match a wide range of load impedances. The system is designed to improve system linearity, reduce harmonics, and provide a flat response to the signal.

Conclusion: The AT-203(40) is a multi-functional, programmable, high power, broadband attenuator offering a wide range of applications in industry and scientific research. The AT-203(40) is designed to provide wide bandwidth performance with excellent power to noise figure. The AT-203(40) attenuator can be programmed with a dual-wheel control system with an internal reference clock and allows operation up to 4GHz. The AT-203(40) is available with several matching networks to allow flexibility in the applications.