The HP/Agilent 8495D is a manual step attenuator delivering precise signal level control across DC to 26.5 GHz. With 70 dB maximum attenuation in 10 dB increments, it combines high repeatability with exceptional operating life. The attenuator employs precision thin-film cards, lossless thru-lines, and ganged edge line transmission lines with gold-plated leaf spring contacts. Designed for laboratory and production RF/microwave applications where stable, repeatable signal management is critical.
## Technical Specifications
**Frequency & Attenuation**
• Frequency range: DC to 26.5 GHz
• Attenuation range: 0 to 70 dB in 10 dB steps
• Insertion loss at 0 dB: 0.4 dB + 0.09 dB/GHz
**Return Loss Performance**
• Maximum SWR: 1.6:1 (DC to 12.4 GHz); 1.9:1 (12.4–18 GHz); 2.2:1 (18–26.5 GHz)
• Impedance: 50 ohms
**Power Handling**
• Maximum average RF input power: 1 W
• Maximum peak RF input power: 100 W
• Maximum pulse width: 10 μs
**Repeatability & Life**
• Attenuation repeatability: ≤0.03 dB (0.05 dB for 18–26.5 GHz) over 5 million cycles per section; typically 0.01 dB
• Operating life: Over 5 million cycles per section with expected useful life of 40 years
**Connectors & Electrical**
• Connector type: APC 3.5 mm female
• DC voltage limit: ±7 Vdc maximum on RF connectors; use blocking capacitor if source exceeds this potential
## Key Features
• Four cascaded attenuation sections for cumulative signal control
• Low-torque cam actuation of edge line controls
• Gold-plated contacts for long-term contact stability
• Coaxial construction rated for both continuous and pulsed RF operation
## Typical Applications
• RF and microwave test benches requiring stable, repeatable attenuation
• Signal level conditioning in production test environments
• Laboratory measurement setups where mechanical reliability is essential
## Compatibility & Integration
Serially connectable with HP/Agilent 8494/5/6/7 series attenuators using HP/Agilent 11716A/B/C interconnect kits to achieve extended dynamic range with 1 dB step resolution. Option 004 provides alternative APC 3.5 mm connectors; Option UK6 includes commercial calibration data with certificate.
