RF Unit Converter

RF Power and Voltage Units

Radio frequency circuits use logarithmic units such as dBm and dBμV alongside linear units like milliwatts and volts. This converter translates between common RF power and voltage measurements using a reference impedance (default 50 Ω).

Conversion Formulas

Power conversions:

$$P_{\text{mW}} = 10^{\,dBm/10}, \quad P_{\text{W}} = 10^{\,dBW/10}$$

Voltage conversions:

$$V_{\mu V} = 10^{\,dB\mu V/20}, \quad V = \frac{V_{\mu V}}{10^6}$$

Linking power and voltage at impedance $Z$:

$$P = \frac{V^2}{Z}, \quad V = \sqrt{P \times Z}$$

Related tools: Decibel (dB) Calculator and Ohm's Law Calculator.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is dBm?

dBm expresses power in decibels relative to 1 milliwatt. 0 dBm equals 1 mW, and every 10 dB step is a tenfold power change.

Why do I need impedance?

Power and voltage are related through the load impedance. RF systems commonly use 50 Ω, but you can change it to match your circuit.

What is dBμV?

dBμV is voltage expressed in decibels relative to 1 microvolt. It uses a 20·log scale because voltage ratios use 20, not 10.

Are these RMS values?

Yes. The linear voltage and power values shown assume RMS measurements, which is standard for RF engineering calculations.

Can I convert from watts to dBm?

Yes. Select W as the input unit, enter your power value, and the tool displays dBm, dBW, mW, and the equivalent voltage at your chosen impedance.

Report

RF Power and Voltage Units

Conversion Formulas

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Tools

Recent Visits