Matching attenuator

When r.f. signals are (to be) attenuated, it is essential that the requisite network retains correct matching to the relevant (coaxial) cable(s). If this is not so, reflected signal waves will ensue along the cable(s), which may attenuate or magnify the forward signal waves. In other words, there will be points along the cable(s) where the resulting signal is much smaller than the original and others where the resulting signal is much larger.