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AN-49-005 (December 23, 2019) M176825 (R95497) File: AN-49-005(J).doc
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3.4.3
Attenuator Switching Time
Attenuator models are specified with typical switching times of 100 to 900 ns depending on the
model, but even faster transitions can be observed in practice. Switching time in this instance is
defined as the time during which the attenuator is transitioning from one attenuation level to the
next. This short switching time means the RF signal path has an undefined attenuation state for
as short a time as possible during changes in attenuation levels. Switching time is distinct from
minimum dwell time during a sweep or hop sequence which is generally dictated by
communication and control delays rather than RF switching characteristics.
Some typical switching time measurements applicable to the programmable attenuator series
are presented below:
Ax = 711.998 µs
Ay = 143 mV
Ax = 472.735 µs
Ay = 25.25 mV
Bx = 712.198 µs
By = 16 mV
Bx = 473.097 µs
By = 2.81 mV
Δx =
200.000 ns
Δy =
-127 mV
Δx =
362.000 ns
Δy =
-22.44 mV
Ax = 174.907 µs
Ay = 140 mV
Bx = 175.510 µs
By = 46 mV
Δx =
603.000 ns
Δy =
-100 mV
Figure 3.4.3a:
Typ. Switching time from 120 to
0 dB(RCDAT-4000-120); 200 ns switching time
Figure 3.4.3b:
Typ. Switching time from 45 to
15 dB(RCDAT-4000-120); 362 ns switching
Figure 3.4.3c:
Typ. Switching time from 10 to 0
dB(RUDAT-13G-90); 600 ns switching time
