The Keysight (formerly Agilent / HP) 8494B is a precision manual step attenuator operating from dc to 18 GHz. It offers a total attenuation range of 0 to 11 dB in 1 dB steps, featuring high repeatability (0.03 dB max) and an exceptionally long operating life of over 5 million cycles per section thanks to precision gold-plated leaf springs.
Specifications
RF Performance Characteristics
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Frequency Range | dc to 18 GHz |
| Attenuation Range | 0 to 11 dB |
| Attenuation Step Size | 1 dB |
| Nominal Impedance | 50 Ω |
| Maximum VSWR (dc to 8 GHz) | 1.5 |
| Maximum VSWR (8 to 12.4 GHz) | 1.6 |
| Maximum VSWR (12.4 to 18 GHz) | 1.9 |
| Maximum Insertion Loss (at 0 dB) | 0.6 dB + 0.09 dB/GHz |
| Maximum Average Input Power | 1 W |
| Maximum Peak Input Power | 100 W |
Mechanical Characteristics and Reliability
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Operating Mechanism | Manual |
| Switching Life (Minimum Cycles) | 5,000,000 cycles per section |
| Attenuation Repeatability (Typical) | 0.01 dB |
| Attenuation Repeatability (Maximum) | 0.03 dB |
| Internal Contacts | Precision gold-plated leaf springs |
RF Connectors and Interfaces
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Connector Type | Type-N female, SMA female, or APC-7 (configuration dependent) |
Options and Accessories
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Calibration Documentation Options | Option 890 (NIST traceable data for SWR and attenuation) |
| Interconnect Cable Accessories | Compatible with 11716A/B/C interconnect kits for series connection |
Technology
RF / Microwave
Applications
Test and Measurement