®
150 T Series SmartStep Programmable Attenuators
PARALLEL MODE OPERATION:
In the parallel mode of operation, the Smartstep attenuator accepts TTL-level
parallel data on the D0-D7 input data lines. Each data line controls a separate
attenuation cell, where a logic 1 input (TTL high) engages the attenuation cell, and
a logic 0 input (TTL low) bypasses the cell, providing a through path. The data
lines have a weak active pull-up to +5V, and therefore if the pin is left unconnect-
ed (or floating), will engage the attenuation cell. The on-board microcontroller
debounces the data lines and generates the proper timing and control sequence
for operation of the relays. The data line inputs are not latched, and must be driv-
en with a constant level to keep the desired attenuation setting.
SERIAL MODE OPERATION:
In the serial mode of operation, the Smartstep attenuator communicates over a
two-wire serial bus to the Aeroflex / Weinschel Model 8210A Smartstep Interface.
The bus uses a clock (SCL) and data (SDA) line to send and receive program-
ming and configuration information. The messages sent over the bus use the
software protocol as defined in the ACCESS.bus™ V2.2 specification (Base
Protocol) with Weinschel-specific extensions to support the control of step atten-
uators (StepAttn Protocol). These protocols and operating instructions can be
located in the Model 8210A instruction manual (IM-288). The ACCESS.bus™
messages have the following format:
Byte#
D7
D6
D5
D4
D3
D2
D1
D0
Description
1
D7
S7
P
D6
S6
L6
D5
S5
L5
D4
S4
L4
D3
S3
L3
D2
S2
L2
D1
S1
L1
0
0
Destination address
Source address
Protocol flag & Msg Length
msg body- 0 to 127 bytes
Checksum
2
3
4
L0
Length+4
X7
X6
X5
X4
X3
X2
X1
X0
For an indepth discussion of the hardware and software operation, refer to the
ACCESS.bus™ specification.
5
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