HP / Agilent 8495A Manual Attenuator, 4 GHz, 70 dB, 10 dB steps

The HP/Agilent 8495A is a manual step attenuator delivering precise signal level control from DC to 4 GHz. It provides attenuation in discrete 10 dB steps across a 0 to 70 dB range, making it ideal for RF and microwave test systems requiring accurate, repeatable signal conditioning. Gold-plated leaf spring contacts rated for over 5 million cycles per section ensure long service life with attenuation repeatability typically within 0.01 dB. The device operates at 50 ohm impedance with low insertion loss (0.4 dB + 0.07 dB/GHz at 0 dB attenuation) and maximum SWR of 1.35, supporting average power handling of 1 W and peak power to 100 W. Available with Type-N, SMA, or APC-7 connectors, it integrates into laboratory, field, and automated test configurations. Series interconnection with other units in the 8494/8495/8496/8497 family extends dynamic range capability.

– Technical Specifications

• Frequency Range: DC to 4 GHz
• Attenuation Range: 0 to 70 dB
• Attenuation Steps: 10 dB increments
• Impedance: 50 ohms
• Insertion Loss: 0.4 dB + 0.07 dB/GHz (at 0 dB attenuation)
• Maximum SWR: 1.35
• Attenuation Repeatability: 0.01 dB typical; 0.03 dB maximum across 5 million switching operations per level
• Service Life: Over 5 million cycles per section
• Power Handling: 1 W average; 100 W maximum peak
• Maximum DC Voltage: ±7 Vdc (use blocking capacitor for higher potentials)
• Weight: Approximately 2 lb

– Key Features

• Precision thin-film attenuator cards with gold-plated leaf spring contacts
• Connector options: Type-N female, SMA female, APC-7 (with socket variants available)
• Low insertion loss maintains signal integrity across the 4 GHz band
• Exceptional repeatability supports demanding calibration and measurement applications

– Typical Applications

• Laboratory RF and microwave signal conditioning
• Automated test systems requiring discrete attenuation control
• Field measurements and equipment evaluation

– Compatibility & Integration

• Series interconnection with HP/Agilent 8494/8495/8496/8497 family attenuators
• 11716A (Type-N) and 11716C (SMA) interconnect kits available for cascaded configurations
• NIST traceable calibration data available as Option 890