Digital step attenuators cover 5MHz – 3,000MHz frequency range

The DSAs cover a broad 5MHz – 3,000MHz frequency range while delivering low insertion loss and distortion. The Glitch-Free technology protects amplifiers and analogue to digital converters (ADCs) from damage during transitions between attenuation states by reducing attenuation setting overshoot (glitches) during most significant bit (MSB) transitions by up to 95 percent.

The devices boast an ultra-high IIP3 linearity of 65dBm, a wide temperature range of -40 to 105 degrees Celsius, and a 75Ohm impedance that offers ease of integration in data networks.

The 6-bit F1975 DSA provides gain control at 0.5dB steps with insertion loss of only 1.2dB (at 1GHz). The F1977 device is the industry's first monolithic silicon, 75Ohm, Glitch-Free, 7-bit DSA, enabling customers to achieve 0.25dB gain control while maintaining excellent RF performance. 

IDT’s F197x development tools allow engineers to easily evaluate the DSAs. Using F197xEVBI evaluation boards, engineers can set attenuation by either the parallel control input or its serial control input (through external connection and control).

The board includes a DIP switch that allows users to set the attenuation state without off-board connections to the control inputs. The F197xEVS kits are complete hardware and software solutions that allow engineers to digitally control the DSAs with the USB output on a computer. The kits include the corresponding F197xEVBI board, as well as a USB Digital Control Board and interface cables.