Accurate measurement of millimeter-wave attenuation from 75 GHz to 110 GHz using a dual-channel heterodyne receiver

A dual-channel millimeter-wave attenuation measurement system from 75 GHz to 110 GHz using a heterodyne receiver is described. The millimeter-wave attenuation is derived from the voltage ratio at 5.02 kHz using an inductive voltage divider as a reference standard. The measurement uncertainties are estimated to be 0.015–0.030 dB for attenuation ranging from 0 dB to 70 dB at 110 GHz. Measurement results of a waveguide rotary vane attenuator with 0–70 dB attenuation steps at 110 GHz are presented.

► A millimeter-wave attenuation measurement system in 75–110 GHz using a heterodyne receiver is described.
► The attenuation measurement is derived from the voltage ratio at 5.02 kHz using an inductive voltage divider as a reference standard.
► The measurement uncertainties are estimated to be 0.015–0.030 dB for attenuation ranging from 0 dB to 70 dB at 110 GHz.
► Measurement results of a synthesized rotary vane attenuator with 0–70 dB attenuation steps at 110 GHz are presented.