User`s guide

2
Step 1
Supported Agilent Switches
and Attenuators
The Agilent 34945A and L4445A
Microwave Switch/Attenuator Drivers and
the L4490A/L4491A RF Switch Platform
support virtually any RF/Microwave switch
or attenuator.
Table 1, shown on the following page, is
a list of commonly used and supported
Agilent switches and attenuators with
their recommended options. Use Table 1 to
locate your switch(es)/attenuator(s) and
the accessories required. You may find it
necessary to refer to the table frequently
as you work through this guide.
Note that the switches, attenuators, and
accessories shown in Tables 1
and 2 are not included with the
instrumentation and must be ordered
separately!
Use the chart on page 13 to track
your selections as you determine your
configuration.
Agilent Technologies is a leader in
providing RF/Microwave switching solu-
tions. Agilent’s solutions include both RF/
Microwave switch modules and switch
driver instruments that control discreet
(external) switches and attenuators physi-
cally located at the site of the device under
test (DUT) or application.
The purpose of this configuration guide
is to introduce you to the features of the
Agilent 34945A, L4445A, and L4490A/
L4491A family of RF/Microwave switching
instruments, and to assist you in the three
step process of selecting and configuring
your Agilent system:
Step 1: Select the switches/
attenuators and their options for your
application.
Step 2: Determine the type and number
of distribution boards required, and the
bracket and cable kits required.
Step 3: Select the switch driver
instrument or switch platform you plan to
use.
Introduction
RF/Microwave switches are used in a
wide variety of applications ranging from
DC to over 50 GHz. These applications can
include:
• Wireless Communications,
• Broadband CATV,
• Communication Satellites,
• Test and Measurement
Equipment,
• Electronic Radar
and Defense Systems,
• Avionics,
• Medical Electronics,
• Space Programs.
High Frequency measurement systems
can be configured to route RF/Microwave
signals in a variety
of configurations including:
• Selection from multiple signal sources to
a single output,
• Selection of multiple input signals to a
single measurement instrument,
• Transfer switching to insert or remove a
device in a signal path,
• Matrix switching of multiple inputs and
outputs.