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Principles of
Operation
WARNING
Operator's Check
Performance Tests
Operating Information
The attenuation is achieved by a resistive film deposition on a beryllium
oxide substrate. The high power heat is dissipated by fins in the cooling cage
that surrounds the attenuator cartridge assembly.
The high power attenuator card has a substrate of beryllium oxide. Beryllium
oxide in a powder form is a hazardous material and may be injurious to your
health if inhaled. Do not perform any operation on the beryllium oxide that
might generate dust. Defective attenuator cards should be returned to Agilent
Technologies for proper disposal.
The most accurate check of the attenuator is made using a network analyzer.
However, a simplified operator's check of the attenuator can be made by
using either the substitution or insertion loss method.
•
If a similar attenuator of known accuracy is available, a reference can be
established and then the unknown attenuator can be substituted in place
of the reference attenuator. If a known good attenuator is not available,
establish a reference on the measuring equipment, insert the device
under test, and check for the proper attenuated signal level.
•
Use an RF source in the proper frequency range and a detector with
readout device. Equipment should have sufficient accuracy to show that
the attenuator is working.
The best method for testing the attenuator is with an automatic network
analyzer or equivalent equipment of suitable accuracy. This method will
allow greater accuracy of measurement since system ambiguities can be
corrected. Simple quick-check techniques are mentioned under Operator's
Check above. These techniques will provide a reasonable degree of
confidence that the attenuator meets its specifications.
Agilent Technologies 8498A Operating and Service Manual 5
Operating Information
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