The HP/Agilent 8493A is a precision coaxial fixed attenuator engineered for DC to 12.4 GHz operation. It delivers stable, accurate signal attenuation across RF and microwave test systems through a film-resistor design on an attenuator card, ensuring high repeatability and low insertion loss.
Technical Specifications
Frequency Range: DC to 12.4 GHz
Attenuation Values: 3 dB, 6 dB, 10 dB, 20 dB, and 30 dB
Connector Type: SMA male and SMA female
Maximum Input Power:
• Average: 2 W
• Peak: 100 W
Attenuation Accuracy:
• 3 dB: ±0.3 dB
• 6 dB: ±0.3 dB
• 10 dB: ±0.5 dB
• 20 dB: ±0.5 dB
• 30 dB: ±1.0 dB
SWR (Standing Wave Ratio):
• DC to 8 GHz: 1.35 or lower
• 8 GHz to 12.4 GHz: 1.86 or lower
– Key Features
Precision film-resistor construction on attenuator cards delivers uniform attenuation with minimal SWR across the full frequency band. SMA connectors employ heat-treated beryllium copper for durability and repeatability. All units are swept-frequency tested on precision analyzers to confirm performance over the complete frequency range and eliminate narrow resonances. Actual attenuation values at key frequencies (DC, 4 GHz, 8 GHz, 12 GHz, 18 GHz, and 26.5 GHz) are stamped on the attenuator body. Optional calibration data traceable to NBS standards is available.
– Typical Applications
RF and microwave test and measurement setups requiring precise signal level control. Signal conditioning in receiver and transmitter test chains. Impedance matching and power distribution in laboratory and production environments.
– Compatibility & Integration
SMA connectors provide direct compatibility with standard RF and microwave instrumentation and assemblies. Heat-treated beryllium copper construction ensures long connector life under repeated mating cycles.
