26-09-2013, 03:30 PM
To verify the characteristics of ATTENUATOR
INTRODUCTION
An attenuator is an electronic device that reduces the amplitude or power of a signal without
appreciably distorting its waveform.
An attenuator is effectively the opposite of an amplifier, though the two work by different
methods. While an amplifier provides gain, an attenuator provides loss, or gain less than 1.
Attenuators are usually passive devices made from simple voltage divider networks. Switching
between different resistances forms adjustable stepped attenuators and continuously adjustable
ones using potentiometers. For higher frequencies precisely matched low VSWR resistance
networks are used.
Fixed attenuators in circuits are used to lower voltage, dissipate power, and to improve
impedance matching. In measuring signals, attenuator pads or adaptors are used to lower the
amplitude of the signal a known amount to enable measurements, or to protect the measuring
device from signal levels that might damage it. Attenuators are also used to 'match' impedances
by lowering apparent SWR.