Causes of Failure in Electrically Controlled Adjustable Attenuator
Understand the Most Common Cause of Failure: Blown Attenuators The number one failure we encounter—across network analyzers and spectrum analyzers in particular—is a blown input attenuator. This paper outlines practical techniques to minimize equipment breakdown and measurement errors that result from attenuator failure during measurement of high voltage pulses. Understand the Specifications: Before using an attenuator, thoroughly read the manufacturer's datasheet. To test an RF attenuator's accuracy, you typically use a Vector Network Analyzer (VNA). Brands like Keysight Technologies (formerly Agilent and HP), Rohde & Schwarz, Anritsu, Tektronix, and National Instruments.
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