The HP/Agilent 8494A is a 50-ohm manual step attenuator delivering precise, repeatable signal attenuation from DC to 4 GHz. This coaxial device provides 0 dB to 11 dB attenuation in 1 dB discrete steps, making it ideal for signal conditioning in laboratory and automated test environments. The attenuator uses a four-section cascade design with precision thin-film attenuator cards, lossless thru-lines, and gold-plated leaf spring edge line contacts to achieve low SWR, low insertion loss, and exceptional accuracy across its operating range.
Technical Specifications
• Frequency Range: DC to 4 GHz
• Attenuation Range: 0 dB to 11 dB
• Attenuation Steps: 1 dB
• Characteristic Impedance: 50 ohms
• Repeatability: ≤0.03 dB per section over 5 million cycles
• RF Power Handling: 1 W average; 100 W peak (maximum 10 µs pulse width)
• DC Voltage Limit: ±7 Vdc maximum on RF connectors (blocking capacitor required for higher potentials)
• Length: 159 mm (6-1/4 in.)
– Key Features
• Four-section attenuator architecture with cascade-connected ganged transmission line pairs
• Gold-plated contacts ensure low noise floor and extended operational life
• Electromechanical design minimizes reflections and maintains signal integrity
• Available in three connector configurations: Type N female, SMA female, or APC-7
• Operates reliably across extended temperature range: -40°C to +75°C
– Typical Applications
• Receiver sensitivity and gain calibration
• Signal level adjustment in high-frequency measurement systems
• Dynamic range extension in automated test equipment (ATE)
• RF and microwave system characterization
– Compatibility & Integration
The 8494A belongs to the HP 8494/95/96/97 family of step attenuators. Multiple units can be serially cascaded using interconnection kits (11716A/B/C) to achieve greater attenuation range while maintaining 1 dB step resolution.
