This calculator determines the resistor values (R1 and R2) for a Tee attenuator based on the required attenuation level and characteristic impedance. It helps design fixed attenuators for impedance matching and signal level control in RF circuits.
Formulas
R1(Ω) = Z0 * ( (10^(dB/20) – 1) / (10^(dB/20) + 1) )
R2(Ω) = 2 * Z0 * (10^(dB/20) / (10^(dB/10) – 1))
Formula Explanation
- Z0 is the system impedance (typically 50 or 75 ohms).
- dB is the desired attenuation in decibels.
- R1 and R2 define the shunt and series resistors that control signal reduction while maintaining impedance balance.
Example
Input: Z0 = 50 Ω, Attenuation = 6 dB
Result: R1 ≈ 16.5 Ω, R2 ≈ 112.6 Ω
Who uses it
Useful for RF designers and technicians creating attenuator pads for test setups or transmission line matching.