1-6 GHz GaAs MMIC Linear Attenuator with Integral Drivers

This paper describes the performance of a voltage-controlled attenuator with a 12 dB linear attenuation vs. control voltage range. This linear attenuator greatly facilitates the realization of both closed and open loop gain compensation networks. Over the -55°C to 85°C range the attenuator recorded a 7.2 +- 1 dB/V linear transfer function while using only 25 mW from a single 4 V power supply.