26.5 – 40 GHz, Dial-Type Variable Waveguide Attenuator

Applications

Mi-Wave’s 520 and 522 Series Variable Waveguide Attenuators are used in microwave and millimeter-wave systems where reliable manual attenuation control is needed from 8 GHz to 220 GHz.

Instrumentation

Used in RF and microwave instrumentation setups to establish and adjust signal levels during testing, evaluation, and measurement.

Manual Test Setups

Ideal for bench testing and manually configured measurement systems where engineers need direct attenuation control without automated interfaces.

Initial Power Level Setting

Useful for establishing starting signal levels in RF chains before additional calibration, measurement, or component evaluation.

Substitution-Method Attenuation Measurements

Provides dependable manual attenuation for substitution-based measurement methods that require stable and repeatable initial level setting.

Isolating Pad Applications

Can be used as an isolating pad in microwave systems to reduce signal levels and help improve system stability during testing.

Laboratory RF Development

Supports engineering development and troubleshooting workflows where simple, reliable attenuation adjustment is needed.

Microwave and Millimeter-Wave Measurements

Suitable for controlled attenuation tasks across standard waveguide bands used in high-frequency test environments.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the difference between the 520 Series and 522 Series attenuators?

The 520 Series provides uncalibrated variable attenuation, while the 522 Series provides calibrated attenuation for applications that require more defined and repeatable level setting.

What frequency range do the 520 and 522 Series cover?

These attenuators are available in standard waveguide sizes covering approximately 8 GHz to 220 GHz.

What attenuation range is available?

Each unit provides variable attenuation from 0 dB to 25 dB minimum, depending on model and waveguide size.

Are these attenuators manually adjusted?

Yes. Both series use a dial-driven manual control for direct attenuation adjustment.

What does low bilateral VSWR mean?

Low bilateral VSWR means the attenuator is designed to maintain good impedance matching in either direction of signal travel, helping reduce reflections and improve measurement accuracy.

What types of applications are these attenuators used for?

They are commonly used in instrumentation, manual test setups, isolating pad applications, and substitution-method attenuation measurements.

Are these attenuators suitable for stable lab measurements?

Yes. Their mechanically stable design and spring-loaded setting control help maintain constant attenuation under normal vibration and orientation conditions.

Why would I choose an uncalibrated attenuator instead of a calibrated one?

An uncalibrated attenuator can be a cost-effective choice when relative attenuation adjustment is sufficient and precise calibrated readout is not required.

Glossary of Dial-Type Waveguide Attenuator Terms

Attenuator Fundamentals

Variable Attenuator
An attenuator that allows the user to adjust the amount of signal reduction over a defined range.

Uncalibrated Attenuator
An attenuator with adjustable signal reduction but without a calibrated scale intended for exact attenuation readout.

Calibrated Attenuator
An attenuator with a defined scale or reference that allows more repeatable and known attenuation settings.

Waveguide Attenuator
An attenuator designed for use in rectangular waveguide systems at microwave and millimeter-wave frequencies.

Dial-Type Attenuator
An attenuator that is adjusted using a manual dial mechanism.

Electrical Performance

Attenuation (dB)
The reduction of RF signal power expressed in decibels.

Attenuation Range
The span of attenuation values available from the device, such as 0 dB to 25 dB minimum.

Low Bilateral VSWR
A design characteristic indicating low reflected power and good impedance matching in both directions through the attenuator.

VSWR (Voltage Standing Wave Ratio)
A measure of impedance matching between RF components.

Insertion Loss
The signal loss introduced by inserting a component into an RF path, beyond the intended attenuation function.

Frequency Response
How consistently the attenuator performs as frequency changes across its operating band.

RF and Frequency

Radio Frequency (RF)
Electromagnetic signals used in communications, sensing, and electronic measurement.

Microwave Frequencies
Frequencies generally spanning 1 GHz to 30 GHz.

Millimeter-Wave (mmWave)
Frequencies from 30 GHz to 300 GHz used in advanced communications, radar, and test systems.

Waveguide Size
The physical size of the waveguide interface, which determines the operating frequency band.

Frequency Range
The range of frequencies over which the attenuator is designed to operate effectively.

Mechanical and Design

Mechanically Stable Design
A design intended to resist unintended setting changes due to movement, vibration, or handling.

Spring-Loaded Setting Control
A control mechanism that uses spring tension to provide smoother adjustment and stable position holding.

Internal Contouring
Precision shaping of internal attenuator features to optimize RF performance, minimize reflections, and reduce variation with frequency.

Stable Setting Control
A control mechanism designed to hold attenuation settings consistently under normal operating conditions.

Measurement and Applications

Instrumentation
RF and microwave test equipment used to evaluate signals, components, and systems.

Manual Test Setup
A non-automated test arrangement where settings are adjusted directly by the user.

Substitution-Method Attenuation Measurement
A measurement approach where attenuation is determined by replacing one signal path or setting with another while maintaining equivalent response.

Initial Power Level Setting
The process of establishing a starting signal level for testing, calibration, or system adjustment.

Isolating Pad
A device or attenuation function used to reduce signal interaction between components and improve measurement stability.

Reliable Level Setting
The ability to set and maintain a desired attenuation level consistently during testing or operation.

Note: Our website contains just a few types of  Attenuators we build. Consult with us for your specific needs.