High Dynamic Range Reflection-Type Attenuator

Abstract

In this paper a variable high dynamic range Reflection-Type Attenuator (RTA) is presented. The proposed RTA consists of a 3-dB coupler and two PIN diodes per reflective load. The PIN diodes are connected to the 3-dB coupler through a network comprising impedance transformers. The exact values of the impedance transformers needed for a high dynamic range are set in accordance with the developed theory. As an experimental verification, two RTAs have been fabricated - one with a single PIN diode per load and one with the proposed two PIN diodes per load. It is shown that the proposed RTA consisting of two PIN diodes per load offers a dynamic range that is two times greater than its single PIN diode counterpart, without a noteworthy increase in the insertion losses.