Basic question on attenuator

Dear all,

I am giving 2 mw (3dBm)signal to my 40dB attenuator how much signal power( in dBm) I can expect at the out put of my attenuator.

please shoot your comments.


Many Thanks

If the impedances of generator, load and attenuator are all the same (f.i. 50 ohm) you will have, onto the load 3 - 40 = -37 dBm.

Many thanks for your attention,
It is not required to convert 40dB(atr) into dBm scale while doing my calculation? if not ,could you please detail?

You cannot convert an attenuation of 40 dB into the dBm scale as it is just a number - and not a power.
Don't forget that "dB" and "dBm" and "dBμV" are no units in a classical sense,
therefore: dBm-dB leads to dBm.

Its clear now..Many thanks