USB & Ethernet Multi-Channel
User Guide
Programmable Attenuators
AN-49-011 Rev.: B (October 18, 2020) M177118 (R96286) File: AN-49-011(B).doc
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Important Notice
This guide is owned by Mini-Circuits and is protected by copyright, trademark
and other intellectual property laws.
The information in this guide is provided by Mini-Circuits as an accommodation
to our customers and may be used only to promote and accompany the
purchase of Mini-Circuits’ Parts. This guide may not be reproduced, modified,
distributed, published, stored in an electronic database, or transmitted and the
information contained herein may not be exploited in any form or by any means,
electronic, mechanical recording or otherwise, without prior written permission
from Mini-Circuits.
This guide is subject to change, qualifications, variations, adjustments or
modifications without notice and may contain errors, omissions, inaccuracies,
mistakes or deficiencies. Mini-Circuits assumes no responsibility for, and will
have no liability on account of, any of the foregoing. Accordingly, this guide
should be used as a guideline only.
Trademarks
Microsoft, Windows, Visual Basic, Visual C# and Visual C++ are registered
trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. LabVIEW and CVI are registered
trademarks of National Instruments Corporation. Delphi is a registered
trademark of Delphi Technologies, Inc. MATLAB is a registered trademark of
The MathWorks, Inc. Agilent VEE is a registered trademark of Agilent
Technologies, Inc. Linux is a registered trademark of Linus Torvalds. Mac is a
registered trademark of Apple Inc. Python is a registered trademark of Python
Software Foundation Corporation.
All other trademarks cited within this guide are the property of their respective
owners. Neither Mini-Circuits nor the Mini-Circuits Programmable Attenuators
are affiliated with or endorsed or sponsored by the owners of the above
referenced trademarks.
Mini-Circuits and the Mini-Circuits logo are registered trademarks of Scientific
Components Corporation.
Mini-Circuits
13 Neptune Avenue
Brooklyn, NY 11235, USA
Phone: +1-718-934-4500
Email: sales@minicircuits.com
Web: www.minicircuits.com
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Table of Contents
Chapter 1 – General Information ................................................................... 5-8
1.1 Scope of the User Guide ................................................................................ 5
1.2 Warranty ........................................................................................................ 5
1.3 Definitions ...................................................................................................... 5
1.4 General Safety Precautions ........................................................................... 5
1.5 Introduction .................................................................................................... 5
1.6 Service and Calibration .................................................................................. 6
1.7 Contact Information........................................................................................ 6
1.8 Technical Description .................................................................................. 6-8
1.8.1 Features of Mini-Circuits Programmable Attenuators .................................................. 6
1.8.2 Model Selection Guide ................................................................................................. 7
1.8.3 Intended Applications ................................................................................................... 7
1.8.4 Supported Software Environments .............................................................................. 8
1.8.5 Included Accessories and Options ............................................................................... 8
1.8.6 Conformity .................................................................................................................... 8
Chapter 2 – Installation and Setup ............................................................. 9-14
2.1 Software Setup ......................................................................................... 9-10
2.2 Installation ............................................................................................... 11-12
2.3 Attenuator Physical Setup ....................................................................... 13-14
2.3.1 For USB Control: ........................................................................................................ 13
2.3.2 Ethernet Control ......................................................................................................... 14
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Table of Contents
Chapter 3 – Using Mini-Circuits GUI ......................................................... 15-31
3.1 Starting the GUI Program ....................................................................... 15-18
3.2 Operating the Attenuator with the GUI Program ..................................... 19-22
3.3 Changing Ethernet Settings Using the GUI Program .............................. 23-24
3.4 Sweep and Hop functions ....................................................................... 25-26
3.4.2 PC Control Mode (Sweep & Hop Sequences): .......................................................... 25
3.4.3 High Speed Mode (Sweep & Hop Sequences): ......................................................... 25
3.4.4 Attenuator Switching Time ......................................................................................... 26
3.5 Alerts During Operation of the Programmable Attenuator .............................27
3.6 Firmware Update .................................................................................... 28-30
3.7 Firmware Recovery .......................................................................................31
Chapter 4 – Revision History ...........................................................................32
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WARNING
1 Chapter 1 – General Information
1.1 Scope of the User Guide
This User Guide provides general introduction, installation instructions and operating
information for Mini-Circuits USB & Ethernet multi-channel programmable attenuators of the
RC4DAT and RC8DAT series (for information on single-channel programmable attenuators see
AN-49-005).
1.2 Warranty
See Mini-Circuits website http://www.minicircuits.com/support/ordering.html for warranty
information.
1.3 Definitions
Note: A note advises on important information you may need to ensure proper operation of the equipment.
There is no risk to either the equipment or the user.
A caution advises about a condition or procedure which can cause damage to the
CAUTION
equipment (no danger to users).
A warning alerts to a possible risk to the user and steps to avoid it. DO NOT proceed
until you are sure you understand the warning.
1.4 General Safety Precautions
There are no general safety precautions for using Mini-Circuits programmable attenuators.
1.5 Introduction
Mini-Circuits has developed a series of multi-channel programmable attenuators, the RC4DAT
and RC8DAT series, which can be controlled via standard USB or Ethernet-TCP/IP(Telnet or
HTTP protocols). These programmable attenuators can operate up to 8000 MHz with an
attenuation resolution 0.25 dB. An attenuation range of up to 95 dB is available. These models
are plug & play devices which require no drivers for any of the supported interfaces. With the
supplied GUI software, or most common lab test software, you can remotely set any attenuation
level in range almost instantly. The attenuators are light, compact and can be powered from the
USB bus or external power supply, increasing system flexibility.
Using their Ethernet control the RC4DAT and RC8DAT models can be controlled from almost
any computer, or even a smartphone with a network connection from anywhere in the world.
Figure 1.5: Mini-Circuits RC4DAT-6G-60
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1.6 Service and Calibration
None of the programmable attenuator models require any periodic service or calibration. The
only user service possible for the models is external cleaning of the case and connectors as
needed. Do not use any detergents or spray cleaning solutions to clean the attenuators. To
clean the connectors use an alcohol solution, and to clean the case a soft, damp cloth.
1.7 Contact Information
Mini-Circuits inc.
13 Neptune Ave
Brooklyn, NY 11235
Phone: 1-718-934-4500
General Fax: 1-718-332-4661
Sales / Customer Service Fax: 1-718-934-7092
sales@minicircuits.com
For regional offices and tech support see http://www.minicircuits.com/contact/offices.html
1.8 Technical Description
1.8.1 Features of Mini-Circuits Programmable Attenuators
• Multiple independent attenuation channels
• Wide attenuation range (model dependent, see section 1.8.2)
• Wide frequency range
• Fine attenuation resolution (0.25 dB)
• Multiple control options
• Easy installation and operation
• Plug & Play devices, no driver installation required
• ActiveX COM object and .Net class library for use with other software: C++, C#, CVI®, Delphi®,
LabVIEW® 8 or newer, MATLAB® 7 or newer, Python, Agilent VEE®, Visual Basic®, Visual Studio® 6 or
newer, and more (see AN-49-001 for full details)
• User friendly Graphical User Interface for any Windows® 32 or 64 bit computer. Command line support
for Linux® computers.
• Mounting bracket (optional)
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Num. of
Frequency
(MHz)
Attenuation
(dB)
Attenuation
(dB)
Max Input
(dBm)
USB, HTTP, Telnet &
SSH
USB, HTTP, Telnet &
SSH*
USB, HTTP, Telnet &
SSH*
USB, HTTP, Telnet &
SSH*
USB, HTTP, Telnet &
SSH*
1.8.2 Model Selection Guide
Model Name
RC8DAT-8G-95
RC4DAT-8G-95
RC4DAT-6G-95
RC4DAT-6G-60
RC4DAT-6G-30
Channels
8 1 - 8000 95 0.25 28
4 1 - 8000 95 0.25 28
4 1 - 6000 95 0.25 23
4 1 - 6000 63 0.25 23
4 1 - 6000 30 0.25 23
Range
Range
Resolution
Power
Control Protocols
For detailed model performance, data and graphs, outline drawing, ordering information and
environmental specifications click on the model part number.
* SSH support is a new addition, refer to table 3.6.4 for the serial number range which supports this
feature.
Figure 1.8.2 RC4DAT & RC8DAT Functional Block Diagrams
1.8.3 Intended Applications
Mini-Circuits multi-channel programmable attenuators are intended for indoor use in:
- Lab and test equipment setups for both manual and automated measurements.
- Control systems
- Production test equipment
The models can be used by anyone familiar with the basics of electronic measurements or
electronic control systems.
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1.8.4 Supported Software Environments
Mini-Circuits programmable attenuators have been tested in the following operating systems:
32 bit systems: Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, Windows XP,
Windows 98 and Linux.
64 bit systems: Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista and Linux
The attenuators will work with almost any software environment that supports ActiveX or .Net
®
including: C++, C#, CVI
®
Agilent VEE
details)
, Visual Basic®, AutoIT, Visual Studio® 6 or newer, and more (see AN-49-001 for full
, Delphi®, LabVIEW® 8 or newer, MATLAB® 7 or newer, Python,
Additionally, the HTTP and Telnet protocols can operate from almost any computer, or even a
mobile device/smartphone with a network connection.
For more information see programming handbook on our website.
1.8.5 Included Accessories and Options
1.8.5.1 The models are supplied with either
• 2.6 ft (0.8m) USB cable (Type A to Type Mini-B).
Or (depending on model)
• 3.3 ft (1m) USB cable (Type A to Type C).
1.8.5.2 The following additional accessories are also available:
• Mounting bracket
• 6.9 ft (2m) USB cable (Type A to Type Mini-B)
• 3.3 ft (1m) USB cable (Type A (male) to Type A (female) ).
• 5 ft (1.5 m) Ethernet cable: RJ45(Male) to RJ45(Male) Cat 5E cable
• AC/DC power adapter suitable for a wide selection of wall sockets
1.8.6 Conformity
Mini-Circuits series of programmable attenuators conform to all requirements for the following
international standards
:
RoHS – The models comply with EU directive for Restriction of Hazardous Substances
for 6 substances.
USB 2.0 – The models meet the specifications of the Universal Serial Bus Ver. 2.0
communication standard as described by USB-IF.
USB HID – The models meet the requirements for Universal Serial Bus Human
Interface Devices according to USB-IF’s Device Class Definition for Human
Interface Devices firmware rev. 1.11
TCP/IP – The models’ Ethernet communication complies with the specifications of the
Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) and Internet Protocol (IP) as defined in
RFC 791 and RFC 793.
HTTP – The models’ support all requirements for communicating with the Hypertext
Transfer Protocol (HTTP) as defined in RFC 1945.
Telnet – The models’ support all requirements for communicating with the Telnet
protocol, as defined in RFC 854
SSH – Some models also support the requirements for SSH protocol (check model data
sheet for details).
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Figure 2.1.2 CD file listing window
2 Chapter 2 – Installation and Setup
2.1 Software Setup
System requirements for the RC4DAT and RC8DAT models are a computer (Pentium II
or better) with either USB HID or Network Connection.
When using the supplied power adaptor a power source of 110-220V
matching one of the two pin plugs provided) is also needed.
To run the GUI program a Windows operating system for either 32 or 64 bits is required
as well.
If you have had any problems installing the software, we’re here to help.
Try following these complete step-by-step instructions. If you still experience problems,
give us a call at Mini-Circuits Worldwide Technical support. It’s (718) 934-4500 or e-mail
apps@minicircuits.com for North America or go to
tech_support.html for other regional numbers and addresses.
2.1.1 First save all work in progress and close any other programs that may be running.
2.1.2 Next, download the full CD software from
https://www.minicircuits.com/softwaredownload/RUDAT_CD.zip
a suitable folder on your computer, then open the file folder you created and double-click the
“Install” icon.
minicircuits.com/contact/worldwide_
(with socket
AC
. Unzip the downloaded files to
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Figure 2.1.3 Setup file listing window
2.1.3 Alternatively, you may wish to just download and open without saving the setup
files, from https://www.minicircuits.com/softwaredownload/RUDAT_Setup.zip
click on the setup.exe icon.
. Then double
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Figure 2.2.3 Installation program window
2.2 Installation
2.2.1 The installer window should now appear. Click the “Install Now” button (if you
downloaded only the setup files skip to 2.2.2).
Figure 2.2.1 Installation window
2.2.2 The license agreement should now appear. To proceed, click “Yes" to accept the
agreement.
Figure 2.2.2 License agreement
2.2.3 The installation program will install (will take a few seconds). Click the
“Exit” button to close the installer.
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2.2.4 The programmable attenuator program will be in C:\Program Files
(x86)\Mini-Circuits\ProgrammableAttenuator with links on the desktop and in the Start
menu under Mini-Ciruits -> ProgrammableAttenuator.
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Figure 2.3.1: USB setup
CAUTION
2.3 Attenuator Physical Setup
The maximum allowed RF input for programmable attenuators models is reduced
at low frequencies. Check the individual model datasheet and do not exceed the
specified limits.
2.3.1 USB Control:
-Connect USB cable between the attenuator’s USB port and the computer’s USB port.
-Note the attenuator’s USB indicator lights up.
-Connect attenuator input and output SMA ports to your system.
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2.3.2 Ethernet Control
-Connect plug suited for available wall socket to the provided power adaptor and plug in
the power adaptor (if a USB port is available it can be used instead of the AC mains
power adapter).
-Connect USB cable between supplied power adaptor and RC4DAT or RC8DAT USB
port.
-Note the USB indicator lights up.
-Connect a standard network cable between attenuator's unit RJ45 socket and network
port.
-Note the network indicators on the RJ45 socket of the attenuator unit light up after a
few seconds.
-Connect RC4DAT input and output SMA ports to your system.
Figure 2.3.2: Ethernet setup
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3 Chapter 3 – Using Mini-Circuits GUI
The RC4DAT and RC8DAT models are supplied along with API programming objects (DLL
files) to allow easy control by most common lab test software (See attenuator programming
manual for details) and with a Windows GUI program to set the attenuation level manually.
To start the program go to the Start menu and in the Mini-Circuits-> Programmable
Attenuator group. The “Mini-Circuits RUDAT” icon should be waiting there for you. Click on it
and get started!
3.1 Starting the GUI Program
3.1.1 When started the GUI will show the control selection screen allowing you to
choose RS232, USB, HTTP, Telnet, or SSH control. Neither RC4DAT, nor RC8DAT multichannel programmable attenuators support RS232 control. For RS232 control see RUDAT
models: https://www.minicircuits.com/softwaredownload/AN-49-005.pdf
Figure 3.1.1: Startup Screen
3.1.2 For USB control click on the USB button in the center. If no unit is connected to
USB an alert will pop up. Click “OK” to return to startup screen. If you get this alert with the unit
connected to USB check the attenuators USB indicator
Figure 3.1.2: No USB device alert
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3.1.3 If multiple units are connected via USB, the unit selection screen will appear
with a list of serial numbers and model names for connected units. Select the unit you wish to
start with and click “OK”, or click “Cancel” to exit the program. The program can handle up to 24
units connected simultaneously. If only one unit is connected via USB, the program will go
directly to the attenuator control screen.
Figure 3.1.3: Unit selection screen
3.1.4 For Ethernet control, either enter the IP address of the unit in the “IP address”
and the port in the relevant "port" field for the communication protocol selected, or click on the
search icon next to it to find all Mini-Circuits attenuators connected to the network.
Note:
1. Default ports for Mini-Circuits models are: HTTP – port 80, Telnet – port 23, SSH – port
22.
2. When connecting to the unit with Ethernet control for the first time you may need to
change the factory default Ethernet configuration to match your network configuration.
See section 3.3 or the programming manual
for details.
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3.1.5 After clicking on the search icon The IP search will pop up with a list of
attenuators IP addresses found and their HTTP ports on the left side of the screen, and full
details of each unit on the right. Mark the IP address you wish to use and click select. The
search window will close and the IP address will be entered in the IP address field of the startup
screen automatically.
Figure 3.1.5: Ethernet IP search window
Notes:
1) To refresh the list of units found click on the Search button.
2) The search function uses ports UDP 4950 and UDP 4951 for communication, ensure
your firewall allows access to these ports.
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3.1.6 After entering the IP address enter your password if you set one (see section
3.2), select the communication protocol you wish to use (HTTP, Telnet or SSH), enter
the password if needed, and click start, the Attenuation control screen will open.
Figure 3.1.6: Ethernet startup screen
3.1.7 Telnet or HTTP text commands can also be sent to control the attenuator. Just
type the command in the address field of your internet browser or implement a Get/Post HTTP
function in your selected application (for HTTP), or establish a Telnet connection. A full list of
the possible commands and queries is available in Mini-Circuits Programmable attenuator
programming manual.
Programmable_Attenuator.pdf
https://www.minicircuits.com/softwaredownload/Prog_Manual-6-
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Figure 3.2.1:
4
3
2
1
8
6
7
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
23
21
12
13
22
9
11
10
5
3.2 Operating the Attenuator with the GUI Program
3.2.1 Once you’ve selected the control method to use, the main screen of the
GUI (Graphical User Interface) program will appear.
Main screen (Hop Mode)
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#
Name
Descriptions
1
Log
When checked creates a log of all attenuation states and settings sent to the
unit. See section 3.2.6 for details
2
Ethernet Config
Opens a Ethernet configuration window (See section 3.3 for details)
3
Firmware
Opens the Firmware update window (see section 3.6)
4
Configuration
Opens a pop-up window allowing the user to specify attenuator state at power
in the manual attenuation setting.
5
Connection Options
Returns to the startup screen
6
Sweep Mode
When selected, allows setting an attenuation sweep with user defined start,
stop, step and dwell time values.
7
Hop Mode
When selected, allows setting a table of user defined attenuation and dwell
time which the attenuator will "hop" through.
8
Model description
Field describing the model, this shows model part number, serial number and
connection details.
9
Controlled
channels
Any attenuation setting specified in the manual control field of the channel will
affect all channels selected in the ‘Controlled Channels’ field.
10
Current Attenuation
The value each channel of the attenuator is currently set to.
11
Manual Attenuation
Attenuation value to be set. This can be changed by either typing a value, or
using the scroll bar and arrows to change the attenuation.
#
Name
Descriptions
12
Apply
Applies the changes made to the attenuation setting.
13
Auto Apply
When this check box is selected every change in attenuation setting will be
execute the changes.
14
Continuous
When selected, the attenuator will repeat the user defined sweep or hop
until the Stop button is clicked.
15
Duration
When selected the attenuator will repeat the user defined sweep or hop
minutes or hours).
16
No. of Cycles
When selected the attenuator will repeat the user defined sweep or hop
sequence for the number of cycles specified.
17
High Speed
Enables high speed Sweep and Hop functions. See section 3.4.3 for details
18
PC control
Default setting. Sweep and Hop instructions are sent individually to the unit
See section 3.4.2 for details.
19
Bidirectional
When selected, the attenuator will sweep or hop through the user defined
or hopping from last to first point in the hop list).
20
Start & Stop
Start and Stop the automatic run (Sweep or Hop) at the current attenuation
setting.
21
Channel Selection
Enables hop sequence for selected channels.
22
Hop parameters
Define attenuation levels separately for each selected channel & dwell time
for all selected channels in hop mode.
23
Icons
In Hop mode allows clearing all current settings, opening a file of saved
settings or saving current settings. Not available in Sweep mode.
3.2.2 Manual Mode functions:
Settings
up for each channel (See section 3.2.5 for details) and set the step size used
3.2.3 Automatic mode functions:
applied immediately, when it is not selected user must click ‘Apply’ to
sequence for the time specified (can be defined in milliseconds, seconds,
sequence, then repeat in the reverse direction (sweeping from stop to start
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3.2.4 Sweep Mode Functions:
#
Name
Descriptions
1
Dwell time
Specifies the time the selected channels will hold each attenuation state.
2
Step (dB)
Defines the attenuation step in (minimum 0.25 dB).
3
Start & Stop (dB)
Define attenuation range for a given channel.
4
Channel selection
Enables sweep for selected channels.
5
Sweep mode
When selected all four channels automation will be in sweep mode
3 5 2
1
4
Figure 3.2.4: Main screen (Sweep Mode)
3.2.5 Configuration Settings
Clicking on ‘configuration Settings’ opens a popup window which allows the user to set the
following parameters:
• Device Address -
o Set the device's USB address in the 1 – 255 range (factory default 255)
• Power Up State -
o The attenuator can be configured to power up with isolation setting for all
channels (factory default), a user defined attenuation value for each channel
independently, or the last attenuation value set for each channel.
Notes:
1. If the GUI is not shut down before the attenuator is disconnected the last attenuation
state will not be saved and if “set last defined attenuation” was selected the attenuator
will start up in high isolation state
2. Shutting down and then starting up the GUI repeatedly in less than 3 minutes while “set
last attenuation” is enabled may result in attenuator resetting to isolation state at power
up due to last attenuation state not being recorded correctly.
.
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• Manual attenuation Step size -
o Gross tune is the step size for each click on scroll bar.
o Fine Tune is the step size for the arrows
Figure 3.2.5: Configuration Settings screen
3.2.6 Attenuation Log
Clicking on Log Attenuation’ opens a popup window which lists the location of the log file being
generated. The log will be saved in the Mini-Circuits directory where you installed the program
under sub-directory \ProgrammableAttenuator\Log with a file name in the format of
Log_[YYMMDDhhmmss].txt, so a file started on June 19, 2020 at 16:16:55 will be named
Log_200619161655.txt
Figure 3.2.6: Example Log File
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9
4
2
6
13
1
3
7
10
14
5
8
12
11
15
3.3 Changing Ethernet Settings Using the GUI Program
3.3.1 Factory default settings for RC4DAT models are Dynamic IP (DHCP) using
Port 80 for http or port 23 for telnet (see Figure3.3.2). To change these settings, click on the
Ethernet Settings button In the GUI (see section 3.1.2).
Figure 3.3.1: Ethernet settings button
3.3.2 The Ethernet Settings screen will open showing the current configuration.
Figure 3.3.2 shows the factory default of the programmable attenuators. If these settings are
appropriate for your local network then you do not need to access the setup before connecting
the attenuator to the network and can connect to the attenuator via Ethernet as described in
section 3.1.4.
Figure 3.3.2: Ethernet Settings screen (showing factory default state)
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#
Name
Description
Media Access Control address – a unique, unchanging identifier for the
attenuator unit.
Network
gateway
IP address of the network gateway. When DHCP is selected this is assigned
by the server and will change according to the server.
The network's subnet mask. When DHCP is selected this is assigned by the
server and will change according to the server.
The IP address of the unit on the network. When DHCP is selected this is
assigned by the server and will change according to the server.
When selected the attenuator will query the server for appropriate
subnet mask and network gateway will be disregarded.
6
Refresh
Request IP address, gateway and subnet mask from server.
Copies current state of dynamic IP to static IP, not available when DHCP is
selected.
Static
Configuration
When DHCP is not selected the user must specify the values below which
will not be changed by the server.
9
Telnet Port
Specify the port to use for Telnet communication on the network (default 23).
To restrict remote access to the attenuator in HTTP or Telnet mode, select
In SSH protocol Password is required at all times.
11
SSH login
Login ID for SSH protocol. Factory default is ssh_user
After you've made all changes you want to click on this button to save the
settings.
When enabled the prompt will appear in every response from the unit in
and to have it return its serial number use "SN"
14
SSH Port
Specify the port to use for SSH communication on the network (default 22).
Specify the port to use for HTTP communication on the network (default 80).
selected.
3.3.3 The Ethernet Configuration settings are:
MAC Address
1
2
Subnet Mask
3
4
5
7
8
10
12
13
15
IP Address
Use DHCP
Copy state
Password
Store
Telnet Prompt
HTTP Port
parameters with no input from the user. Any manually entered IP address,
"Use Password" and enter the desired password below (up to 20 characters).
Telnet protocol. To have the unit return its model number user prompt "MN",
Note port address does not get assigned by the server when DHCP is
3.3.4 After making the changes you want, click on "Store" and the changes
will be saved to the attenuator's memory.
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3.4 Sweep and Hop functions
3.4.1 The GUI provides the ability to carry out an automated sequence of attenuation
settings, either a sequential sweep or an arbitrary hop sequence. These sequences can be set
to repeat until interrupted, to repeat until a specified time has passed, or to repeat a set number
of times:
• The Sweep Mode allows each channel to be configured with its own start, stop and step
attenuation values for an incrementing or decrementing sequence. Any combination of the
4 channels can be configured with a sweep sequence but the same dwell time will be
applied for each channel and step. All included channels will step through their sweep
sequences simultaneously until the channel with the shortest sweep sequence has reached
the specified limit, or the attenuator is interrupted.
• The Hop Mode allows an arbitrary list of attenuation values to be set for any combination of
channels; this includes the ability to set each channel to a different value. All included
channels will step through their respective hop sequences simultaneously but a different
dwell time can be set at each step.”
3.4.2 PC Control Mode (Sweep & Hop Sequences):
In this mode, the attenuation sweep or hop sequence is managed by the GUI so each
attenuation value is sent to the attenuator one at a time (although the values to all four channels
are sent together, to keep them synchronized). Since the GUI is managing the sequence it is
always able to display the current attenuation state of each active channel, but each attenuation
setting is subject to communication delays between the PC and attenuator. Communication
delays vary by computer but in practice this dictates a minimum dwell time in the order of 5 ms
for USB 3.0 connections, or longer with USB 1 or 2 connections (10 - 20 ms is not uncommon
for older computers or slower connections).
3.4.3 High Speed Mode (Sweep & Hop Sequences):
In high speed mode, the attenuation sweep parameters or list of attenuation hop values are
loaded into the attenuator's internal memory. This initial configuration step, along with the Start
and Stop commands from the GUI, are subject to the same communication delays as above but
once executed the timing is controlled by the attenuator's internal reference and no further PC
communication is required. This enables high speed attenuation sequences with dwell times as
low as 600 µs. Since the PC communication delays are significantly longer than this minimum
dwell time, the GUI will not be able to display the current attenuation state in this mode until the
sequence is stopped.
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Ax = 711.998 µs
Ay = 143 mV
Ax = 472.735 µs
Ay = 25.25 mV
Bx = 712.198 µs
By = 16 mV
Bx = 473.097 µs
By = 2.81 mV
Δx = 200.000 ns
Δy = -127 mV
Δx = 362.000 ns
Δy = -22.44 mV
0 dB (RCDAT-4000-120); 200 ns switching time
15 dB (RCDAT-4000-120); 362 ns switching
Figure 3.4: Plot of signal when sweeping attenuation 0-40dB in 10 dB steps (scale 2ms/div)
3.4.4 Attenuator Switching Time
RC4DAT and RC8DAT models are specified with typical switching times of 650 ns, but even
faster transitions can be observed in practice. Switching time in this instance is defined as the
time during which the attenuator is transitioning from one attenuation level to the next. This
short switching time means the RF signal path has an undefined attenuation state for as short a
time as possible during changes in attenuation levels. Switching time is distinct from minimum
dwell time during a sweep or hop sequence which is generally dictated by communication and
control delays rather than RF switching characteristics.
Some typical switching time measurements applicable to the programmable attenuator series
are presented below:
Figure 3.4.4a: Typ. Switching time from 120 to
Figure 3.4.4b: Typ. Switching time from 45 to
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3.5 Alerts During Operation of the Programmable Attenuator
3.5.1 If you type an attenuation value the attenuator cannot meet – either too large a
number, or resolution of under 0.25 dB. An alert will pop up and the attenuation setting will not
change. Click OK to dismiss the alert and enter a valid attenuation value.
Figure 3.5.1a: Value too large for model Figure 3.5.1b: Resolution too small for model
3.5.2 If the attenuator is disconnected during operation, or experiences a problem with the
power supply an alert will pop up. Click OK to close the program and check the power and data
connections to the unit before restarting the program.
Figure 3.5.2: data or power disconnected alert
3.5.3 RC4DAT models can also be controlled automatically using most common lab test
software and the provided DLL files, or your own custom programs. For more information on this
see the Programming Guide available to download from our website at
http://www.minicircuits.com/support/software_download.html
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CAUTION
3.6 Firmware Update
The firmware upgrade process requires a computer running a Windows
operating system and with the latest Mini-Circuits GUI (Graphical User
Interface) program installed for the PTE model to be upgraded, and a
suitable upgrade file for the unit.
3.6.1 All products are shipped with the latest available firmware and an
update is usually not required. Mini-Circuits occasionally makes firmware update files available
as a courtesy to add additional features or correct known issues. Please contact
testsolutions@minicircuits.com
3.6.2 The upgrade is done using the .hex file provided and the programmable
attenuator GUI. The GUI must be started in USB control (See section 3.1) to allow firmware
upgrade. Click on the Firmware button on the left side of the screen.
Note: If the file name of the .Hex file is changed it will not be recognized as a valid firmware file.
The firmware update process has the potential to render the device inoperable in the
event of communication failure. Updates should only be carried out with a stable PC and
USB connection, and in-line with Mini-Circuits guidelines.
3.6.3 The Firmware button will open the ”Firmware – Info” window (See Fig. 3.6.3).
The ‘Firmware’ listed is the version of the firmware installed in your attenuator. Click on “Update
Firmware” to select a new firmware version to install or click ‘Exit’ to close the “Firmware – Info”
window.
for details.
Figure 3.6.3: Firmware Information Window (showing a current controller model)
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CAUTION
3.6.4 The following firmware upgrade instructions apply to both current and
legacy controller versions, but with some visual differences highlighted below. Check the serial
number of your unit and refer to the table below to confirm which process to follow.
Model Name
Legacy Controller
Current Controller
(with SSH Support)
RC8DAT-8G-95
RC4DAT-8G-95
RC4DAT-6G-95
RC4DAT-6G-60
RC4DAT-6G-30
1. Do not disconnect the attenuator or shut down the program while the firmware is
being updated. Doing so may damage the attenuator.
2. Attempting to start a second GUI session while the firmware is being updated
may cause the firmware to be corrupted. It is therefore recommended not to
attempt to start any additional GUI sessions until after the firmware upgrade has
been completed.
Up to S/N 11910159999 From S/N 12001010001 and up
Up to S/N 11910299999 From S/N 11910300001 and up
Up to S/N 12007129999 From S/N 12007130001 and up
Up to S/N 12007239999 From S/N 12007260001 and up
None All units
3.6.5 Clicking on 'Update firmware' will open a browse window for you to navigate to
where you saved the upgrade file you received and run it.
Figure 3.6.5 Firmware - Browse Window (Legacy – left, Current – right)
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3.6.6 The selected file will be installed in the attenuator, the process will
take up to a minute.
Figure 3.6.6: Firmware - Progress Bar Window (Legacy – left, Current – right)
3.6.7 After the firmware has updated an alert will appear. Click ‘OK’ to shut down the
Programmable Attenuator program and then restart it normally.
Figure 3.6.7: Firmware - Successful Update (Legacy – left, Current – right)
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3.7 Firmware Recovery
Figure 3.7.2 Firmware – recovery option (Legacy)
If your device has corrupted firmware and is no longer accessible (for example
due to an interrupted firmware upgrade), you can follow the below steps to
recover. Please contact testsolutions@minicircuits.com if you do not have the
.hex firmware file. The table in section 3.6.4 summarizes which controller
version applies to your device.
3.7.1 For units using the current controller, navigate to the directory where you
installed the GUI and run “UpgradeFirmware.exe”. In the new window click the “Connect/
Disconnect” button. After a connection has been made proceed to click on “Load Hex File”
button for a browse window to open. Navigate to where you saved the upgrade file and select it,
then click on “Upgrade Firmware”.
Figure 3.7.1 Firmware Upgrade App. (Connection step – left, Upgrade step – right)
3.7.2 For units using the legacy controller, open the GUI and attempt to establish
a USB connection. An alert should appear (See Fig 3.7.2 ) advising that the corrupted
attenuator has been identified, click ‘Yes’ to proceed and refer to steps 3.6.5 - 3.6.7 above, or
‘No’ to cancel.
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4 Chapter 4 – Revision History
Revision OR (May 08, 2017):
• Initial revision of the user guide.
Revision A (Aug 06, 2020):
• Added models: RC4DAT-6G-30, RC4DAT-8G-95, RC8DAT-8G-95.
• Updated “Software Setup and Installation” section.
• Updated “Firmware Update” section (upgrade and recovery).
• Added description of SSH support.
• Added description of “Attenuation log file” option.
Revision B (Sep 30, 2020):
• Updated “Firmware Update” section.
• Separated Firmware Update and Firmware recovery to separate
sections.
• Added photo of RC8DAT-8G-95 to front page of user guide.
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