Programmable Attenuators
Model 150
dc to 18.0 GHz
Model 151
dc to 4.0 GHz
Model 152
dc to 26.5 GHz
Relay Switched Programmable Attenuators
RoHS
PROGRAMMABILITY:
In each programmable step
Attenuator, solenoids are used to switch the internal resistor
card of each cell into and out of the circuit. Once the cell is
switched, the solenoid is magnetically latched into position
and is able to withstand extreme shock and vibration.
Internal circuitry is included to interrupt the coil current after
switching is complete. This reduces power dissipation even
if power is continuously applied. The switching time for each
cell is rated at 20 msec maximum which includes the con-
tact settling time.
Description
The Model 150, 151 and 152 Programmable Step
Attenuators represent the widest variety of programmable
attenuators available. This attenuator design is the result of
an extensive development program and offers long reliable
operation with exceptional accuracy and repeatability.
These attenuators can provide programmable adjustments
of RF signal levels in precise steps of 1 dB, 5 dB, 10 dB, or
with custom steps available. Each attenuator consists of a
cascaded assembly of
switched attenuator cells
(Figure 1). The attenuator
elements located in the
attenuator cell are created
by a thin-film process
which provides excep-
tional long-term stability,
low power and tempera-
ture coefficients. This
series uses a reed switch-
ing structure that provides
rapid switching together
with low insertion loss.
Other features include:
o
o
o
o
Figure 1. Cell Schematic
BROADBAND ACCURACY & LOW SWR:
The use of
Aeroflex / Weinschel's proprietary thin-film resistor process
provides these programmable step attenuators with a high
degree of accuracy and the lowest possible SWR uncer-
tainty (refer to specifications for actual values). This thin film
process permits the construction of circuits which are truly
distributed and without stray reactances, even at the higher
microwave frequencies.
RELIABILITY:
Each programmable step attenuator is
composed of 3 to 5 (4 in most models) cells. As with all
mechanical designs, usable life becomes a primary concern
to the user. With this in mind Aeroflex / Weinschel backs all
these attenuators with a rated switch life of 5 million
operations per cell. Standardized testing is also performed
on each programmable step attenuator over its operating
frequency range by a computer controlled Aeroflex /
Weinschel Attenuation Measurement System which is
traceable to NIST standards.
ENVIRONMENTAL:
These Model 150 Programmable Step
Attenuators have undergone an extensive environmental
qualification program and have been subjected to
temperature, shock, vibration, and humidity conditions per
MIL-STD-202F. These programmable step attenuators
operate within these specifications at an ambient
temperature of -20° to +75°C. Operating beyond these
limits will adversely affect the accuracy and could damage
the internal circuitry.
Broadband Frequency Coverage
High Accuracy and Repeatability
Long Life, 5 Million Cycles Per Cell
3, 4, and 5 Cell Configurations
For additional information on the 150 Series, visit our website @ www.aeroflex.com/AW/programmables.htm
112
5305 Spectrum Drive, Frederick, MD 21703-7362 TEL: 301-846-9222, 800-638-2048 Fax: 301-846-9116
web: www.aeroflex.com/weinschel email: weinschel-sales@aeroflex.com
Revision Date: 2/12/10
APITECH [ API Technologies Corp ]
