The Microtel 1295 is a precision attenuation measurement receiver engineered for high-accuracy RF and microwave characterization across 0.01 GHz to 40 GHz. It employs fundamental mixing up to 18 GHz and harmonic mixing above that frequency, delivering 120 dB dynamic range with 0.001 dB attenuation resolution. The instrument features a 12 dB range bolometer detector and automatic attenuation selection to maintain optimal signal levels throughout measurement cycles.

Technical Specifications

• Frequency Range: 0.01 GHz to 40 GHz
• Mixing Architecture: Fundamental mixing to 18 GHz; harmonic mixing above 18 GHz
• Dynamic Range: 120 dB
• Attenuation Resolution: 0.001 dB
• Detector: 12 dB range bolometer detector
• Auxiliary Local Oscillator: 2.3 GHz for 0.01–2 GHz range (two-stage down-mixing)
• YIG Oscillators: 2–8 GHz and 8–18 GHz Avantek units
• Reference Oscillator: 100 MHz
• Signal Detection: Dual-level (HI/LO) detection on A3B2 assembly

– Key Features

• Automatic attenuation step selection maintains signal integrity across wide dynamic range
• Dual-stage down-conversion extends low-frequency measurement capability below 2 GHz
• Broadband coupler integration and high-quality microwave mixers support full band operation
• Level detection with op-amp switching drives automatic gain control
• Serial data output conversion option (2400 baud) for remote integration

– Typical Applications

• Attenuator calibration and validation
• Antenna characterization and measurement
• RF and microwave receiver performance assessment

– Compatibility & Integration

Edge connector interfaces require maintenance using appropriate cleaning media to preserve gold plating. Serial output modifications enable integration with external data acquisition and control systems.