Two components, two jobs
Attenuators and terminations look similar but solve different problems. An attenuator reduces signal level by a fixed or variable amount while keeping the signal intact. A termination absorbs essentially all incident power, presenting a matched load to the line.
Attenuators
- Reduce a signal to protect a receiver or set a test level.
- Available as fixed, step, and continuously variable types.
- Key specs: attenuation value and flatness, power rating, return loss.
- Not sure which type you need? Read about choosing an RF attenuator.
Terminations
- Absorb unused port power to keep a network matched.
- Prevent reflections that cause ripple and instability.
- Key specs: power rating, return loss, and frequency range.
Quick rule of thumb
- Need to keep the signal but lower its level — use an attenuator.
- Need to stop the signal and absorb it — use a termination.
Find the right component
Browse our RF attenuators for level control and our RF terminations for matching unused ports. Pay attention to return loss in either case — both components only do their job when every port stays matched.