Mini-Circuits RUDAT-6000-90 USB Attenuator
Manufacturer: Mini-Circuits
Package / Case: MS1813 Metal Module, SMA Female RF Connectors
Description: 1 MHz to 6 GHz Single-Channel USB/RS232 Programmable Attenuator, 0–90 dB Range, 0.25 dB Step
The Mini-Circuits RUDAT-6000-90 is a single-channel programmable RF attenuator covering 1 MHz to 6 GHz. It provides attenuation from 0 to 90 dB in 0.25 dB steps, allowing precise signal-level adjustment across communications, laboratory and automated test systems.
The module supports both USB and RS232 control. It can be powered and controlled through its USB Mini-B port or integrated into serial-controlled test equipment through the 9-pin D-Sub interface. Two SMA female ports provide bidirectional RF signal operation.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
| Manufacturer | Mini-Circuits |
| Part Number | RUDAT-6000-90 |
| Product Type | Programmable RF Attenuator |
| Number of Channels | 1 |
| Frequency Range | 1 MHz to 6 GHz |
| Attenuation Range | 0 to 90 dB |
| Attenuation Step | 0.25 dB |
| Impedance | 50Ω |
| Attenuation Transition Time | 650 ns |
| Minimum Dwell Time | 600 μs in high-speed mode |
| Input IP3 | +52 dBm typical at 0 dB setting |
| In-to-Out Isolation | 100 dB typical |
| Control Interfaces | USB and RS232 |
| USB Connector | USB Mini-B |
| Serial Connector | 9-pin D-Sub female |
| RF Connectors | Two SMA female |
| Supply Voltage | 5V nominal |
| DC Current | 60 mA typical; 80 mA maximum |
| Case Style | MS1813 |
| Dimensions | 3.00 × 2.00 × 0.60 in |
| Weight | 130 g |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C to +50°C |
| Storage Temperature | −20°C to +85°C |
| RoHS Status | RoHS compliant |
| Export Classification | ECCN EAR99 |
Applications and Selection Notes
Typical applications include:
Automated test equipment
Receiver sensitivity testing
RF power-level cycling
Amplifier and receiver characterization
LTE and wireless system testing
Fading and handover simulation
Laboratory instrumentation
Production test fixtures
Communication link emulation
Repeatable signal-level control
Related Mini-Circuits Programmable Attenuators
| Model | Frequency Range | Attenuation | Step | Control Interfaces |
| RUDAT-6000-90 | 1 MHz–6 GHz | 0–90 dB | 0.25 dB | USB and RS232 |
| RUDAT-6000-110 | 1 MHz–6 GHz | 0–110 dB | 0.25 dB | USB and RS232 |
| RCDAT-6000-90 | 1 MHz–6 GHz | 0–90 dB | 0.25 dB | USB and Ethernet |
| RUDAT-13G-90 | 10 MHz–13 GHz | 0–90 dB | 0.5 dB | USB, RS232 and SPI |
Frequently Asked Questions
What frequency and attenuation range does the RUDAT-6000-90 support?
It operates from 1 MHz to 6 GHz and provides 0 to 90 dB programmable attenuation in 0.25 dB steps.
Is the RUDAT-6000-90 controlled only through USB?
No. It supports USB control and RS232 serial control. USB can provide both control and power, while RS232 integration uses the 9-pin D-Sub interface.
Does the 650 ns specification include USB communication delay?
No. The 650 ns value is the internal attenuation transition time. The minimum high-speed dwell time is 600 μs, and total response time also includes computer and interface communication delays.
Can the RUDAT-6000-90 accept +20 dBm across the entire frequency range?
No. Maximum operating input power is +10 dBm from 1 to 10 MHz and +20 dBm from 10 MHz to 6 GHz.
What is the difference between RUDAT-6000-90 and RCDAT-6000-90?
Both models cover 1 MHz to 6 GHz with a 90 dB range and 0.25 dB steps. The RUDAT version provides USB and RS232 control, while the RCDAT version provides USB and Ethernet control.
Can it run attenuation sweeps without continuous commands from a computer?
Yes. Timed attenuation sweep and hop sequences can be programmed into the unit and executed without sending each attenuation state from an external controller.
