How to Effectively Choosing A Power Attenuator

A power attenuator is a device that causes the amplitude of a signal to get decreased, without leading to a big distortion to its waveform. In short words, an attenuator is exactly opposite to the working process of an amplifier (Future Electronics, WHAT IS AN ATTENUATOR? nd). The attenuators mainly are passive devices and are made by by using simple voltage divider networks. These networks consist of a circuit that suppresses or opposes a specific frequency band. This action is used for reducing the circuit noise or for filtering unwanted signal frequencies. RF attenuators mainly have a coaxial structure and the levels measured by these devices are depicted in the form of decibels.

If you need to invest your money in these attenuators for your work, you would first need to understand more details about these devices. Read the following points which discuss more information about this topic.

Operating in a Stable Environment

Most power attenuator devices are used in a controlled environment, and in the form of individual components of larger devices. But in some cases, such devices might not be set up in balanced environments. Any change in temperature, air pressure and humidity might have an effect on the attenuators, thus causing them to improperly function. In order to avoid this issue, it is important that the manufacturing companies thoroughly test these devices in environments, especially by subjecting them to changes in temperature and other associated factors. Before you choose particular attenuator devices, always ensure that they have been properly tested by their manufacturers for operating in different environmental conditions.

Power Dissipation

While they operate to reduce signal level, RF attenuators dissipate some of the excess power, while absorbing the rest. Now, if these devices are required for small signal applications, then power dissipation not in concern. But in case signal levels are quite high, the attenuator which you will choose needs to properly dissipate the excess power. You can make use of a high power attenuator for this purpose. These devices would be able to handle the power levels higher than those anticipated. Check out the power capabilities of the attenuators that are being chosen before buying the devices. These are generally quoted in Watt and milliwatts, or dBW (decibels relative to a Watt), or dBm (decibels relative to a milliwatt) (Radio Electronics, RF ATTENUATOR BASICS & TUTORIAL, nd).

Choosing RF measurement equipment such as power attenuators should be done carefully by considering crucial aspects. These include the equipment price, device make, how reputed is the manufacturer, etc.

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