JFW Industries Presents "An Introduction to Programmable Attenuator Systems" |
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Combining multiple attenuators into a single unit gives a more compact design and saves cost.
An attenuator is an electrical component that reduces the amplitude of a signal passing through it without significantly degrading the integrity of that signal. In a programmable or step attenuator, the attenuation is controlled externally by an external analog or digital signal, either manually or via a computer. Depending on the model, the maximum attenuation ranges from 0 dB to 127 dB, in steps as small as 0.1 dB. The attenuator is controlled by a combination of digital inputs, an analog voltage or via USB, RS-232, Ethernet or GPIB. These devices are bi-directional, so either port can act as an input or an output. JFW produces many programmable attenuators and attenuator systems for different applications. This article will review the key components of a programmable attenuator system and discuss the best choices for some common applications. Figure 1 shows several JFW programmable attenuators. Applications for Programmable Attenuator Systems
Figure 1: A selection of programmable attenuators ranging from a single unit (left) to a limited-fan-out 24-port transceiver test system (right). Source: JFW Industries Programmable attenuators test and evaluate the performance of many wireless applications:
Key Specifications The key specifications of a programmable attenuator include:
Click here for the entire "An Introduction to Programmable Attenuator Systems" application note. About JFW Industries Founded in 1979 in Beech Grove, Indiana, JFW Industries Inc. is a world leader in designing and manufacturing passive RF components and application specific test systems. These components include attenuators, RF switches, and specialized test systems for use in the cellular, telecommunications, OEM test equipment, medical, automotive, defense, and automated test markets. Innovative new designs and a focus on customer requirements have allowed JFW to maintain steady growth in many key market segments. JFW has over 100 dedicated employees, diligently working to ensure quality assembly and on-time delivery. Each one of our dedicated employees represents our over 30-year commitment to providing reliable RF solutions. Beginning with an industry renowned Customer Service Department, everyone at JFW strives for complete customer satisfaction by responding to the needs of each customer individually and providing the RF component or system that best suits that customer's application. JFW is an ISO-9001:2008 registered company. We have over 14,000 square feet of design and manufacturing space, located in Indianapolis, Indiana (USA) with a European office located in England. JFW is equipped for most facets of the design, assembly, integration and testing of RF technologies Contact Info: Connie Ventress JFW Industries, Inc. 5134 Commerce Square Drive Indianapolis, IN 46237 Phone: 317 887-1340
Posted December 6, 2017 |
Note: This is a sampling of the beginning
of an application note by JFW Industries titled "