Category: Step & Rotary Attenuators

Practical step & rotary attenuators guides with product links, examples and specification checks.


  • Diagnosing an Erratic Rotary Attenuator Reading

    Diagnosing an Erratic Rotary Attenuator Reading

    Check connections and measurement stability before attributing an erratic result to…

  • What Is a Rotary Step Attenuator?

    What Is a Rotary Step Attenuator?

    A rotary step attenuator changes RF attenuation in discrete increments through…

  • Selecting a Rotary Attenuator for a Purchase Specification

    Selecting a Rotary Attenuator for a Purchase Specification

    A purchase specification should define range, increments, frequency band, impedance, input…

  • 1 dB Versus 10 dB Attenuator Steps: How to Choose

    1 dB Versus 10 dB Attenuator Steps: How to Choose

    Choose 1 dB steps for fine threshold measurements and 10 dB…

  • How to Store and Handle a Mechanical RF Attenuator

    How to Store and Handle a Mechanical RF Attenuator

    Protect the connectors, dial and housing from dirt, impact and cable…

  • Rotary Attenuator Range Versus Resolution Explained

    Rotary Attenuator Range Versus Resolution Explained

    Range is the span of available attenuation settings; resolution is the…

  • Step Attenuator Calibration Records: What to Include

    Step Attenuator Calibration Records: What to Include

    A useful calibration record identifies the unit and reports measured attenuation…

  • How to Run a Receiver Sensitivity Sweep with a Step Attenuator

    How to Run a Receiver Sensitivity Sweep with a Step Attenuator

    Use a step attenuator to lower a known RF input in…

  • Choosing a Safe Starting Position for a Rotary Attenuator

    Choosing a Safe Starting Position for a Rotary Attenuator

    Choose an initial attenuation that keeps the downstream device below its…

  • Can You Switch a Rotary Attenuator with RF Power Applied?

    Can You Switch a Rotary Attenuator with RF Power Applied?

    Only switch under RF power when the manufacturer explicitly permits hot…