MAAD-011048 DC–55GHz 5-Bit Digital Attenuator
The MACOM MAAD-011048 is a broadband 5-bit MMIC digital attenuator covering frequencies from DC to 55GHz. It provides a programmable attenuation range of up to 31dB in precise 1dB steps.
The device combines an integrated CMOS-compatible driver, low insertion loss and serial or parallel control in a compact 3mm surface-mount package. It is designed for RF and millimetre-wave systems requiring accurate gain control, low power consumption and low intermodulation distortion.
MAAD-011048 Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
| Manufacturer | MACOM |
| Part Number | MAAD-011048 |
| Product Type | Digital Step Attenuator |
| Frequency Range | DC to 55GHz |
| Number of Bits | 5 |
| Step Size | 1dB |
| Attenuation Range | 0 to 31dB |
| Control Interface | SPI-Compatible Serial or Direct Parallel |
| Integrated Driver | CMOS Compatible |
| Logic Compatibility | 1.8V, 2.5V and 3.3V CMOS |
| Typical Input Return Loss | 15dB |
| Typical Output Return Loss | 12dB |
| Typical IIP3 | 50dBm at 10GHz |
| Typical Switching Rise/Fall Time | 15ns |
| Typical On/Off Time | 125ns |
| Supply Voltage | +3.3V and −3.3V |
| RF Impedance | 50Ω |
| Package | Lead-Free 3mm, 20-Lead Laminate |
| Operating Case Temperature | −40°C to +105°C |
| RoHS Compliant | Yes |
Available Ordering Options
| Ordering Part Number | Description |
| MAAD-011048 | Standard device designation |
| MAAD-011048-TR0500 | 500-piece tape and reel |
| MAAD-011048-SB1 | Evaluation and sample board |
Typical Applications
The MAAD-011048 can be used in broadband RF and millimetre-wave systems requiring programmable signal-level control, including:
RF and microwave test equipment
Automated test systems
Millimetre-wave transceivers
5G and wireless infrastructure
Point-to-point microwave links
Satellite communication systems
Radar and phased-array systems
Electronic warfare equipment
Industrial, scientific and medical equipment
Gain-control and signal-levelling circuits
Broadband receiver and transmitter modules
FAQ
What is the attenuation range of the MAAD-011048?
The device provides programmable attenuation from the reference insertion-loss state to 31dB, with a minimum step size of 1dB.
What is the maximum operating frequency?
The MAAD-011048 operates from DC to 55GHz, allowing it to support microwave and millimetre-wave applications with one broadband device.
Does it support SPI control?
Yes. The device includes an SPI-compatible serial interface and also supports direct five-bit parallel control.
Can multiple devices be daisy-chained?
Yes. The SEROUT signal is the SERIN data delayed by six clock cycles, allowing multiple attenuators to be connected in a serial daisy chain.
What supply voltage does it require?
The recommended supply voltages are +3.3V for VDD and −3.3V for VSS. The digital control inputs are compatible with 1.8V, 2.5V and 3.3V CMOS logic.
Is an evaluation board available?
Yes. The MAAD-011048-SB1 evaluation board is available for RF testing and design verification.



