HP / Agilent 33320H Programmable step attenuator, dc-18 GHz

The HP/Agilent 33320H is a programmable step attenuator delivering precise, repeatable signal attenuation across DC to 18 GHz. Engineered for automated test systems, signal simulation, and calibration, it combines cascaded thin-film attenuation cards with solenoid-switched architecture to achieve 1 dB steps from 0–11 dB with exceptional accuracy and minimal settling time.

## Technical Specifications

**Frequency & Power**
• Frequency range: DC to 18 GHz
• Maximum RF input: 1 W average, 100 W peak
• Attenuation range: 0–11 dB in 1 dB steps
• Step accuracy: ±0.2 dB (1 dB step), better than ±1 dB (10 dB step)
• Broadband accuracy: ±2% of dB reading to 18 GHz
• Insertion loss at 0 dB: (0.6 + 0.09 × f) dB, where f is frequency in GHz
• Repeatability: ±0.01 dB to 18 GHz
• Maximum SWR: 1.9

**Control & Switching**
• Programmable interface with external driver (11713A controls up to two attenuators)
• Switching speed: Maximum 20 ms including contact settling
• Solenoid duty cycle: Approximately 8 ms active power draw per switch event
• Power supply: 24 VDC standard; 5 VDC option available
• Connector: SMA (female); Type N and APC-7 available

**Mechanical & Environmental**
• Operating temperature: −20°C to +75°C
• Non-operating temperature: −55°C to +85°C
• Mechanical durability: Over 5 million switching cycles with gold-plated leaf springs
• Operational shock: 10 g’s, 6 ms
• Operational vibration: 5 g’s, 34–2000 Hz
• Humidity rating: 5-day cycling at 40°C, 95% RH with condensation
• EMC compliance: MIL-STD-461, VDE 0871, CISPR Publication II

## Key Features

• Cascaded three or four attenuation sections for precise dB control
• Thin-film tantalum resistive elements on sapphire substrates eliminate stray reactances
• Low SWR across full frequency range via distributed circuit design
• Automatic solenoid de-energization minimizes thermal load

## Typical Applications

• Automated RF/microwave test systems
• Signal level simulation and conditioning
• Calibration and measurement setups
• Broadband attenuation to 18 GHz

## Compatibility & Integration

Control via 11713A Attenuator/Switch Driver, accommodating two step attenuators and two RF switches in a single instrument.