Digital Attenuator

Engineered to precisely control signal amplitude, digital attenuators are essential components in RF systems requiring programmable or automated signal level adjustment. By allowing digital step control of attenuation, they offer superior accuracy, repeatability, and integration flexibility compared to fixed or manually adjustable attenuators.

Digital Attenuators by MCV

MCV digital attenuators are built for high-performance operation across a wide frequency range, delivering fine attenuation resolution, low insertion loss, and fast switching speeds. Available in various bit configurations and control interfaces, they are ideal for applications such as signal conditioning, automated test systems, and dynamic gain control in communication networks. Housed in robust, compact packages, MCV digital attenuators are designed to withstand demanding environments in telecommunications, aerospace, defense, and instrumentation systems.

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Wideband – Covers 600 to 6000 MHz
Attenuation Values from 3 to 40 dB
Low PIM Device, -160 dBc
Weatherization to IP-67
IBWave Supported

MCV Model Number:

Frequency Range (MHz):

Attenuation Value (dB):

MCV Model Number	Frequency Range (MHz)	Attenuation Value (dB)	Return Loss / VSWR	Power Rating (W)	3rd PIM (dBc)	Impedance (Ω)	Connector Type	Dimension (mm)	Weight (kg)	Finish	Temperature Range (℃)	IP Class	Humidity
AT3	600-6000	3±1.5	16 dB Min (1.35:1)	100	≤-160 (43dBm*2)	50	See Options Below	128×90×73.5 (5.04×3.54×2.89 in)	2.50	Grey	-25 ~ +65	IP67 (Outdoor)	≤95%
AT6	600-6000	6±1.6	16 dB Min (1.35:1)	100	≤-160 (43dBm*2)	50	See Options Below	128×90×73.5 (5.04×3.54×2.89 in)	2.50	Grey	-25 ~ +65	IP67 (Outdoor)	≤95%
AT10	600-6000	10±1.8	16 dB Min (1.35:1)	100	≤-160 (43dBm*2)	50	See Options Below	128×90×73.5 (5.04×3.54×2.89 in)	2.50	Grey	-25 ~ +65	IP67 (Outdoor)	≤95%
AT15	600-6000	15±2.0	16 dB Min (1.35:1)	100	≤-160 (43dBm*2)	50	See Options Below	128×90×73.5 (5.04×3.54×2.89 in)	2.50	Grey	-25 ~ +65	IP67 (Outdoor)	≤95%
AT20	600-6000	20±2.5	16 dB Min (1.35:1)	100	≤-160 (43dBm*2)	50	See Options Below	128×90×73.5 (5.04×3.54×2.89 in)	2.50	Grey	-25 ~ +65	IP67 (Outdoor)	≤95%
AT30	600-6000	30±2.8	16 dB Min (1.35:1)	100	≤-160 (43dBm*2)	50	See Options Below	128×90×73.5 (5.04×3.54×2.89 in)	2.50	Grey	-25 ~ +65	IP67 (Outdoor)	≤95%
AT40	600-6000	40±3.0	16 dB Min (1.35:1)	100	≤-160 (43dBm*2)	50	See Options Below	128×90×73.5 (5.04×3.54×2.89 in)	2.50	Grey	-25 ~ +65	IP67 (Outdoor)	≤95%
MCV Model Number	Frequency Range (MHz)	Attenuation Value (dB)

Connector Options Available

3-10.0 Female (Add -43F to Model Number)
3-10.0 Male (Add -43M to Model Number)
7/16 DIN Female (Add -DF to Model Number)
7/16 DIN Male (Add -DM to Model Number)

Outline Drawing AT Series Attenuators

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FAQ about digital attenuators

What is a digital attenuator?

A digital attenuator is an electronic device that reduces (attenuates) the power level of a signal in discrete steps using digital control signals. It is commonly used in RF (radio frequency) and microwave systems to control signal strength precisely.

How does a digital attenuator work?

It operates by switching resistor networks, PIN diodes, or MMIC (monolithic microwave integrated circuit) components through digital logic signals—usually controlled via TTL, SPI, or parallel interfaces—to change the attenuation level in programmable steps.

What are the main applications of digital attenuators?

Digital attenuators are widely used in:

RF communication systems
Automatic gain control circuits
Test and measurement equipment
Radar systems
Wireless transmitters and receivers

What is the difference between a digital and an analog attenuator?

An analog attenuator provides continuous attenuation controlled by a variable voltage or mechanical adjustment, while a digital attenuator provides discrete attenuation steps controlled digitally, ensuring repeatable and programmable settings.

What are the common control interfaces for digital attenuators?

Typical interfaces include:

Parallel control (each bit corresponds to an attenuation step)
Serial interfaces such as SPI or I²C
TTL/CMOS logic for simple binary control

What is the typical attenuation range and step size?

The range depends on the model, but common values are:

Attenuation range: 0 to 31.5 dB or 0 to 63 dB
Step size: 0.25 dB, 0.5 dB, or 1 dB per bit

What factors affect the performance of a digital attenuator?

Key performance factors include:

Insertion loss
Return loss
Linearity (IP3)
Switching speed
Power handling capacity
Frequency range

What is insertion loss in a digital attenuator?

Insertion loss is the signal loss introduced by the attenuator when it is set to 0 dB attenuation. It represents the amount of power lost due to internal resistance and circuit components.

How fast can a digital attenuator switch between levels?

Switching speeds typically range from a few nanoseconds to a few microseconds, depending on the technology (e.g., PIN diode vs. MMIC-based designs).

How do you select the right digital attenuator for your application?

Consider the following parameters:

Frequency range
Attenuation range and step size
Power handling
Control interface type
Switching speed
Operating voltage and package type

Are MCV digital attenuators suitable for harsh environments?

Yes. MCV digital attenuators are built with ruggedized enclosures and are engineered for reliability in demanding applications such as aerospace, defense, and industrial systems. They maintain stable performance across wide temperature ranges and high-frequency operation.

How can I order digital attenuator from MCV Microwave?

To place an order for digital attenuator please contact us and we will help you!

Digital Attenuator