Receive-only switched attenuator

[Dave VK6KV]

Esteemed Readers,

Our "mates" in the Pine State Amateur Radio Club have just done another manufacturing run on their "low power" stepped attenuator, which offers from 1dB to 81dB of attenuation in 1dB steps. It's made using quarter-watt 1206 surface mount resistors so it's only meant for very low power, they typically use theirs to 'de-sense' their fox hunt receivers as they get closer to the fox. They also tend to purchase kits of parts and hold "assembly workshops" to assist their members who might wish to learn the relevant soldering techniques - photos attached.

Denis VK6AKR expressed possible interest for our members down-under but the estimated shipping costs approximately double the purchase price, so the thought arose to make some locally. The PSARC "maker" John K1JO has generously provided us with his Kicad circuit files, Gerber files, and a 3d model file for a neat plastic enclosure.

In my estimation, unpopulated circuit boards could be had for approximately $110 for a set of 10 boards, and indications are that the component costs would amount to a further $20-$30  (strongly dominated by switches and the 2 SMA connectors). I can't speak to the cost of 3D printing the enclosures, but there are several local options that could be approached for quotes (eg. maker-spaces, etc.).

If there are at least five interested people here in VK6, I would consider starting up a run of these boards locally - I would do this from my own funds rather than through the VHF Group.

I will send a message to our mates in PARG who seem to have an interest in fox hunts too.

Cheers, Dave VK6KV

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