Comprehensive study of the quality assurance regarding 18 GHz digitally controlled L-band step attenuator

Abstract

The following paper is touching on the quality assurance of the 18 GHz digitally controlled L-band step attenuator. In particular, the research focused on finding the most influential factors affecting the quality of the discussed attenuator. Also, it covered in a complete way the quality assurance actions on stages before, during, and after manufacturing including graphical interpretations of tolerance requirements regarding attenuator components as well as necessary measurements setups and equipment to validate applied on the device tolerances after production. Besides, in the work the research triangulation method including literature review, expert interview, and observations with CAD modeling was applied. Then, the results obtained by three separate methods were verified by combining and comparing with each other as well as by demanding reliability verification criteria. Consequently, this approach allowed to answer the research question and derive key findings. Thus, four features strongly influencing the quality of the device, namely attachment of the PCB, sufficient space around the board, tight fit of housing and cover, and material selection were identified and deeply investigated in the work. Eventually, the work not only addressed a gap in existing research regarding the topic of quality assurance of the title attenuator, but also created a solid base under possible future research that would enrich this particular field in the microelectronics world.