Mini-Circuits RC8DAT-8G-95 - About Mini-Circuits Programmable Attenuators; Introduction; Key Features; Intended Applications

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Rev. D | ECO-016581 | 25-Jan-2023 Page 5

2 - About Mini-Circuits Programmable Attenuators

2.1. Introduction

Mini-Circuits has developed a series of multi-channel programmable attenuators, the RC4DAT and RC8DAT series, which can be

controlled via standard USB or Ethernet-TCP/IP (Telnet, HTTP, and SSH protocols). These programmable attenuators can operate

up to 8000 MHz with an attenuation resolution down to 0.05 dB, and attenuation range of up to 120 dB. These models are plug &

play devices which require no drivers for any of the supported interfaces. With the supplied GUI software, or most common lab

test software, you can remotely set any attenuation level in range almost instantly. The attenuators are light, compact and can be

powered from the USB bus or external power supply, increasing system flexibility.

Using their Ethernet control the RC4DAT and RC8DAT models can be controlled from almost any computer, or even a smartphone

with a network connection from anywhere in the world.

Refer to section 2.4 for details of specific models.

2.2. Key Features

• Multiple independent attenuation channels

• Wide attenuation range (model dependent)

• Wide frequency range

• Fine attenuation resolution

• Multiple control options

• USB HID (Human Interface Device) for “plug & play” operation (no driver installation required)

• User-friendly graphical user interface (GUI) for Windows

• API DLL for Windows and direct USB programming support for Linux (see programming manual for details)

For additional details, performance data and graphs, outline drawing, ordering information and environmental specifications,

see our catalog at: https://www.minicircuits.com/WebStore/RF-Programmable-Step-Attenuators.html

2.3. Intended Applications

Mini-Circuits multi-channel programmable attenuators are intended for indoor use in:

• Lab and test equipment setups for both manual and automated measurements.

• Control systems.

• Production test equipment.

The attenuators can be used by anyone familiar with the basics of electronics measurements or electronic control systems.