QAXIAL 30 dB 2 W DC–8 GHz SMA Coaxial Attenuator

The QAXIAL ATS-3002-08 is a fixed 30 dB coaxial attenuator designed for professional radio-frequency and microwave applications up to 8 GHz.

Its SMA male and SMA female connectors allow the attenuator to be fitted directly between two RF devices or components without requiring additional cables or adapters. Operation is fully bidirectional, so either end can be used as the input or output.

With a nominal impedance of 50 Ω and a maximum VSWR of 1.20:1, it provides good line matching and minimises reflections that could affect measurement accuracy.

The nominal attenuation of 30 dB, with an accuracy of ±0.7 dB, substantially reduces a signal before it reaches a spectrum analyser, receiver, frequency counter, SDR or other sensitive equipment.

Its passivated stainless-steel construction provides mechanical strength, thermal stability and long-term durability. Each unit is checked using actual vector network analyser measurements, providing consistent performance for laboratory, production and field testing.

Main features

• Brand: QAXIAL
• Manufacturer code: ATS-3002-08
• Type: fixed coaxial attenuator
• Nominal attenuation: 30 dB
• Attenuation accuracy: ±0.7 dB
• Frequency range: DC–8 GHz
• Impedance: 50 Ω
• Maximum average input power: 2 W at 25 °C
• Maximum VSWR: 1.20:1
• Operation: bidirectional
• Connectors: SMA male–SMA female
• Interface standard: MIL-STD-348A
• Body and nut material: stainless steel
• Body finish: passivated
• Centre contact: gold-plated BeCu/brass
• Operating temperature: –55 to +100 °C
• Storage temperature: –55 to +125 °C
• Weight: 6 g
• Compliance: RoHS 3 and REACH

Recommended applications

• Spectrum-analyser input protection
• Receiver, SDR and frequency-counter protection
• RF and microwave test benches
• Signal-level adjustment
• Vector network analyser measurements
• Amplifier and preamplifier testing
• Low-power transmitter testing
• Wireless equipment development
• Instrument calibration and verification
• Production lines and quality control
• Telecommunication systems up to 8 GHz
• Amateur-radio and QO-100 projects

Technical note

An attenuation of 30 dB corresponds to a power reduction of approximately 1000 times. For example, with a 2 W input signal, the theoretical output power will be approximately 2 mW, provided that the system is correctly matched to 50 Ω.

The 2 W maximum power rating is specified at an ambient temperature of 25 °C. Its power-handling capability may decrease as the surrounding temperature increases.

Important note

This component is not a dummy load and must not be used as an RF-line termination. Its output must be connected to a 50 Ω load or device.

Do not exceed 2 W of average input power. Before connecting it to a transmitter, also consider peak power and the modulation type being used. Operation above the rated power can permanently damage both the attenuator and the equipment connected to its output.