MACOM Attenuators
An attenuator is an electrical device used to reduce the power of a signal without substantially distorting its waveform. Attenuators are commonly used to reduce the amplitude of various signals, including radio frequency signals, in order to improve data transmission and reduce consumer power consumption. The purpose of an attenuator is to modify the amplitude of the signal while preserving its shape, phase and other characteristics. Attenuators are also used in analog and digital circuits to reduce the intensity of a signal or sound without changing its frequency. The type of attenuator used, as well as its particular specifications, depend on the type and strength of the signal to be modified. Common types of attenuators include voltage attenuators, resistance attenuators, and reactance attenuators.