Step attenuators cover frequencies to 67 GHz
February 1, 2013. The new R&S RSC family from Rohde & Schwarz consists of four base-unit models and two external step attenuators. The two external step attenuators cover frequencies up to 40 GHz and 67 GHz, respectively. Every base unit can control up to four external step attenuators in parallel.
The R&S RSC step attenuators allow users to attenuate signal power step by step either manually or by remote control. A typical field of application is the calibration of measuring instruments, especially receiver linearity testing.
The R&S RSC base unit is available with or without an internal step attenuator. The base units with internal step attenuator are available in three versions. The standard version covers an attenuation range of 139 dB with a 1-dB step size up to 6 GHz. A second internal precision step attenuator, especially for users in aerospace and defense, covers the frequency range from DC to 6 GHz and features a maximum attenuation of 139.9 dB and a step size of 0.1 dB. The third version handles the frequency range up to 18 GHz with a maximum attenuation of 115 dB and a step size of 5 dB.
The instrument family includes two external models up to 40 GHz and 67 GHz, respectively. Both attenuate the signal by 75 dB at a step size of 5 dB. The external step attenuators are configured and controlled via the base unit, a PC with a Rohde & Schwarz control program, or via an application program.
To achieve the highest possible measurement accuracy, the frequency response of each step attenuator is measured in the factory and stored in the instrument. At the current operating frequency, an R&S RSC can automatically correct its absolute attenuation by its frequency response, which reduces attenuation uncertainty to a minimum. Test setup components such as cables or high-power attenuators can be included in the displayed overall attenuation.
All models are equipped with IEC/IEEE, LAN, and USB interfaces. Legacy Rohde & Schwarz attenuators are supported via the compatibility mode of the R&S RSC so that customers do not have to change their control programs.