The HP/Agilent 8492A is a coaxial fixed attenuator that provides precision signal attenuation across DC to 18 GHz. Engineered for RF and microwave systems, this 50 Ohm device delivers consistent attenuation while maintaining low reflections and signal integrity. The 8492A enables controlled power reduction in measurement setups and protects sensitive downstream components from excessive signal levels.
## Technical Specifications
• **Frequency Range:** DC to 18 GHz
• **Attenuation Value:** 10 dB (additional values including 3, 6, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60 dB available)
• **Attenuation Accuracy:** ±0.5 dB typical
• **Impedance:** 50 Ohms
• **Connectors:** Type N Male to Type N Female
• **Body Material:** Stainless Steel
• **Operating Temperature:** -55°C to +125°C
## Key Features
• **Thermal Performance:** Maximum continuous input power of 2 W at +25°C, derating to 0.5 W at +125°C
• **VSWR Performance:** ≤1.15:1 from DC to 12.4 GHz; ≤1.35:1 from 12.4 GHz to 18 GHz
• **Fixed Attenuation:** Eliminates tuning requirements and provides absolute repeatability across temperature and frequency
## Typical Applications
• Signal level conditioning in receiver front-end protection
• Power reduction for spectrum analyzer and network analyzer inputs
• Test signal attenuation in RF and microwave measurement systems
• Component characterization requiring controlled input power levels
## Compatibility & Integration
The 8492A integrates directly into standard 50 Ohm RF test systems via Type N connectors. Full compatibility exists with signal generators, spectrum analyzers, and laboratory coaxial assemblies operating within the DC to 18 GHz band.
