M/A-COM Technology Solutions Inc. introduced the MAAD-008866, a 6-bit, 0.5 dB step digital attenuator for 75 Ohm systems operating up to 1 GHz. This attenuator is designed for use when high accuracy, low power consumption (4 microAmps typical at 5 V, steady-state) and low intermodulation products are required.

The MAAD-008866 includes an integrated TTL/CMOS compatible driver and offers parallel and serial control with a power-up state function. The device achieves an insertion loss of 1.4 dB with a typical input return loss of 18 dB from 5 MHz to 1000 MHz. Attenuation accuracy is plus/minus 0.15 dB plus 4 percent of attenuation setting.

"The new digital attenuator enables broadband equipment manufacturers to maximize signal level control performance in home gateways, passive optical nodes, cable cards and RF tuners," said Graham Board, Global Product Manager, CATV products. "Made with our proven pHEMT process and 'green' over-mold packaging, the attenuator expands our Broadband/CATV product portfolio of 75 Ohm products that includes a variety of amplifiers, switches and multi-function ICs."