Signal Loss Calculator

Combine stated dB losses and gain to estimate a final signal level in dBm.

About the Signal Loss Calculator

This educational link-budget helper adds stated losses and gain on the logarithmic dB scale.

How to use it

  1. Enter the initial level in dBm.
  2. Enter nonnegative cable, connector and other losses plus amplifier gain.
  3. Calculate the net change and estimated final level.

How it works

Total loss is the sum of the loss entries. Final dBm equals initial dBm plus amplifier gain minus total loss.

Example

Starting at 0 dBm with 4 dB of losses and 3 dB of gain produces an estimated -1 dBm final level.

Notes

Only explicitly entered gains and losses are included; real systems can have additional frequency, environment and equipment effects.