Use this electronics calculation for a first-pass component, converter, signal, motor, or sensor estimate when the stated operating conditions and units match the device data.

Reflection coefficient

Required number input.

Compute the return loss in decibels from a reflection coefficient magnitude. The tool evaluates the supplied inputs together and returns the named outputs below; it does not infer omitted operating conditions or change the units shown.^[1]

Return loss (dB)

The resulting return loss returned as a number.

• Compact electronics formulas omit some combination of tolerances, temperature drift, bandwidth, loading, parasitics, noise spectrum, nonlinearity, clipping, calibration, layout, and device-specific limits. Typical datasheet values are not guaranteed limits.
• Use finite inputs in the displayed units and preserve more precision than the final presentation requires. Independently verify safety-critical, financial, compliance, or production decisions.

Check the result against the current datasheet and worst-case operating corners, then verify the circuit or measurement with simulation and bench testing where failure matters.

• Mismatch Loss dB

  Compute the mismatch loss in decibels caused by a reflection coefficient.

• Fiber Attenuation dB

  Compute the total attenuation of an optical fiber link from its loss coefficient and length.

• Transmission Coefficient

  Compute the power transmission coefficient tau as one minus the square of the reflection coefficient magnitude.