Comparison of S-Parameter Measurement Methods for Attenuators

In this work two methods for the characterization of attenuators - meaning two-ports with high return loss value and well-defined insertion loss - in the range of 0 dB to 30 dB attenuation are simulated and compared. The main focus is the evaluation of the achievable measurement uncertainty as well as the required effort and scope of the measurement. The comparison is carried out using a coaxial attenuator type 2.92 mm in the frequency range up to 44 GHz. The first method is based on two 1-port calibrations whereas the second method is one full 2-port calibration using the attenuator as the unknown Thru.