In the Continuous Variable type of an attenuator (Variable Attenuator), the resistance present in the attenuator network is reset by solid state elements such as a MOSFET or a PIN diode.

In the stepless type, the damping value can be manually changed to any damping value within the specified range. While fixed attenuators have fixed attenuators, stepless attenuators can be manually adjusted within a specified range and resolution to achieve the desired attenuation. The attenuation value can be selected with the manual button or by turning the rotary switch. The only difference is that you can select the attenuation value in the step attenuator using the digital control or manually using the buttons or rotary switch.

Here you can adjust the attenuation both manually and using an electronic signal. In general, the attenuation level can be changed by changing the voltage applied to the input control line. By changing the voltage in the FET device, the attenuation can be changed with higher resolution than passive resistor networks. Stepless waveguide attenuators typically use screws to adjust the resistive film from one side of the waveguide wall to the centre of the waveguide; in this case, the resist material is shaped to provide a linear change in attenuation.

Resolution simplifies the process by eliminating the step of adjusting the screw in the stepless waveguide attenuator and the need to measure attenuation until the desired value is reached. Some waveguide models allow the user to manually enter a value using a dial to achieve a specific attenuation.

A Custom Mic variable attenuator, which can sometimes be referred to as a waveform attenuator (depending on its in-deployment environment), can provide such control, fixed attenuators provide a single attenuation setting, and variable attenuators provide a range of attenuation control over the desired frequency range. A fixed attenuator reduces the system signal by a certain amount, while a variable attenuator allows you to manually adjust the fixed signal over a series of fixed steps.

Manually operated RF attenuators will use traditional hand-operated switches, but those that must be electronically controlled can use reed relays, although PIN diodes can often be used. A regulated attenuator is often required for RF designs – this design provides constant impedance and uses PIN diodes. When measuring RF signals, RF attenuators are used as terminations and known guard attenuation and power dissipation.

RF attenuators are components that reduce the amplitude level of an input signal. Attenuators can be designed using FET RF attenuators and these attenuators are used to provide constantly changing levels of attenuation. Fixed resistors are used, and accurate attenuation levels can be achieved with them, although the types of resistors used need not be inductive, and the design of the circuit must ensure that no signal leaks through each element.

Do not add an attenuator to the output of a power amplifier without considering how it will affect your power output or how the power amplifier’s RF output power may affect your attenuator. By adding an attenuator to the input, you can reduce the gain by 14.5dB to 10dB and improve input matching.