Free Space Path Loss conversion calculator for RF link design

dB
dB

Free Space Path Loss Formula

FSPL(dB) = 20 log10(d) + 20 log10(f) + 92.45 – Gtx – Grx

Formula Explanation

This Free Space Path Loss (FSPL) conversion calculator estimates the loss of signal strength over a clear line-of-sight path. The formula uses distance (d) in kilometers, frequency (f) in GHz, and subtracts the transmitting (Gtx) and receiving (Grx) antenna gains. The constant 92.45 converts the units to dB when using km and GHz.

Uses of Free Space Path Loss conversion calculator

  • Predicting signal loss in RF communication links.
  • Optimizing antenna placement for maximum coverage.
  • Planning satellite communication or microwave links.
  • Estimating performance of wireless networks in line-of-sight scenarios.
  • Educational tool for understanding propagation losses in RF engineering.

Formula Example

For a 10 km link at 5 GHz, with Gtx = 10 dB and Grx = 8 dB:

FSPL = 20 log10(10) + 20 log10(5) + 92.45 – 10 – 8

FSPL ≈ 108.45 dB

This means the signal experiences approximately 108.45 dB of free space path loss over this link.