Abstract: Space transformers configured to be utilized in a probe system to facilitate electrical communication with a device under test (DUT), probe systems that include the space transformers, and related methods are disclosed herein. The space transformers include a dielectric body, a plurality of first electrical contacts supported by the dielectric body, and a plurality of second electrical contacts supported by the dielectric body. The space transformers also include an electrically conductive radio frequency (RF) signal-modifying trace. The space transformers further include an RF electrical signal-modifying structure in electrical communication with the electrically conductive RF signal-modifying trace. The RF electrical signal-modifying structure is configured to receive the RF electrical signal from an input region of the electrically conductive RF signal-modifying trace and to discharge a modified RF electrical signal to an output region of the electrically conductive RF signal-modifying trace.

Abstract: Improved performance for attenuated testing when probing a device under test with a probe array is provided. By moving the attenuation components from their conventional location on the printed circuit board of the probe head to the space transformer of the probe head, electrical path lengths can be decreased, thereby improving performance. This is particularly helpful in connection with loopback testing.