Abstract: A high-precision signal attenuator for insertion into a coaxial line, or the like, includes a dielectric substrate upon which are provided, by vacuum deposition, painting, or the like, an input electrode, an output electrode, and two shunt electrodes. The input and output electrodes are positioned on the substrate for coupling to the center conductor of the line and the shunt electrodes are positioned along opposite edges of the substrate for coupling to the outer conductor of the line. The outer conductor is illustratively maintained at ground while the center conductor carries the signal to be attenuated. A distributed resistive film element is positioned on the substrate surface among the four electrodes. The distributed film element comprises a center portion, which is illustratively rectangular or square. Four resistive legs branch from the center portion to the input electrode, the output electrode, and the two shunt electrodes.