The Keysight (Agilent/HP) 8494H is a programmable step attenuator operating from DC to 18 GHz. It provides an attenuation range of 0 to 11 dB in 1 dB steps, featuring high repeatability of 0.03 dB maximum and a long operating life of over 5 million cycles per section. It is designed for applications requiring precise RF attenuation control and high reliability in automated test environments.

Specifications

General Specifications

ParameterValue
Attenuation Range0 to 11 dB
Step Size1 dB
Actuation MethodProgrammable

RF Specifications

ParameterValue
Frequency RangeDC to 18 GHz
Insertion Loss (0 dB position)0.6 dB + 0.09 dB/GHz
Maximum VSWR1.5 (DC to 8 GHz); 1.6 (8 to 12.4 GHz); 1.9 (12.4 to 18 GHz)
Attenuation Repeatability0.03 dB maximum (0.01 dB typical)
Maximum Average Input Power1 W
Maximum Peak Input Power100 W
Nominal Impedance50 Ω

Actuator and Drive Characteristics

ParameterValue
Operating Life (cycles)> 5 million cycles per section
Switching Speed / Settling Time20 ms maximum (including contact settling)

Connectors and Interfaces

ParameterValue
RF Connector TypeChoice of Type-N (f), SMA (f), or APC-7

Power & Control

ParameterValue
Drive Voltage24 VDC nominal (5 VDC and 15 VDC by option)

Technology

RF / Microwave

Applications

Test & Measurement