Free Space Path Loss Calculator

Estimate theoretical free-space attenuation for a frequency and unobstructed distance.

About the Free Space Path Loss Calculator

FSPL describes ideal geometric spreading loss between two points in unobstructed free space.

How to use it

  1. Enter a positive frequency and select MHz or GHz.
  2. Enter a positive path distance.
  3. Calculate the ideal path loss in decibels.

Formula

With distance in kilometers and frequency in MHz, FSPL is 32.44 + 20 log10(distance) + 20 log10(frequency).

Example

At 100 MHz over 1 km, the ideal free-space path loss is about 72.44 dB.

Notes

This free-space model excludes terrain, buildings, reflections, weather, polarization, antenna patterns and regulatory constraints.