Attenuator for 170 GHz frequency

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the need to convert a 10 dBm signal at 170 GHz to -1 dBm, focusing on the types of attenuators suitable for this frequency range. Participants explore various methods and equipment related to millimeter-wave technology.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the best type of attenuator to achieve a specific signal reduction at 170 GHz.
  • Another suggests that an obstruction inside the waveguide could serve as an attenuator, though they express uncertainty about millimeter microwaves.
  • A participant questions how the original 10 dBm signal is generated, noting the limitations of typical millimeter-wave source modules.
  • References are made to a gyrotron capable of generating high power at 140 GHz, with discussions about its operational requirements and safety concerns.
  • Concerns are raised about the safety and technical knowledge required to experiment with high-power gyrotrons.
  • Participants speculate about the existence of smaller gyrotrons that might be more accessible for experimentation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying levels of knowledge about millimeter-wave technology and gyrotrons, with no consensus on the best approach to achieve the desired signal attenuation.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved questions regarding the generation of the initial signal and the specific characteristics of the proposed attenuators. The discussion includes assumptions about the availability and safety of high-power microwave equipment.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in millimeter-wave technology, microwave engineering, and experimental physics may find this discussion relevant.

manthan
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hi, everyone.

i need to convert my 10 dbm,170 GHz signal into -1 dbm,170 GHz. so which kind of attenuator is best for me.??
 
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Some kind of obstruction inside the waveguide should suffice, it just has to be properly sized ... but I'm not an expert on millimeter microwaves.
 
How are you generating 10 dBm at that frequency?

You must have access to some suberb test equipment. Agilent's millimeter-wave source modules outputs at most -10 dBm at full power in the upper range of D band.
 
He mentioned a gyrotron in the other post ... MIT has a gyrotron that generates 80 dBm at 140 GHz.
 
hamster143 said:
He mentioned a gyrotron in the other post ... MIT has a gyrotron that generates 80 dBm at 140 GHz.

Such a gyrotron is a huge power hog, and requires strong magnetic fields to operate, probably derived from superconducting magnets. I'm wondering though, how does one without basic knowledge of microwave tech, would get permission to experiment with such a device?
 
what said:
Such a gyrotron is a huge power hog, and requires strong magnetic fields to operate, probably derived from superconducting magnets.

Yeah, 65 kV electron beams, superconducting 5 tesla magnets. And I bet you can fry yourself real easy with 80 dBm of microwaves. But surely there are smaller gyrotrons out there?
 

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