ATTENUATORS

Attenuation is a reduction in the magnitude of a voltage or current due to its transmission over a line or
through an attenuator.

Attenuation in dB = 20 log (N)
where,
N = Attenuation factor.

A Resistive Attenuator is a device used for introducing a specified loss between a signal source and a
matched load without upsetting the impedance relationship necessary for matching.

Characteristic/Surge Impedance of a symmetrical network is defined as the impedance measured across
the input terminals of the network when an infinite number of such networks are connected in tandem. It
is denoted by Z0 or R0. Unit is Ohm.
Z0 =
+
+
, R0 = Rin = RL

SYMMETRICAL T NETWORK

R0 =

R0 =

R1 =

+
]


R2 =

]
SYMMETRICAL NETWORK


R0 =

R0 = [

]


R1 =

]


R2 =

[
+

]
R0 = Characteristic Impedance
Roc = Open Circuit Impedance
Rsc = Close Circuit Impedance
N = Attenuation Factor