Satellite Link Budget Calculator
This calculator is designed for aerospace engineers and communication specialists to accurately compute satellite link budgets. It helps in assessing the performance of a satellite communication link by accounting for all gains and losses while transmitting a signal.
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Data Source and Methodology
Calculations are based on the IEEE standards and satellite communication engineering principles. All calculations rely on the formulas and data provided by these sources.
The Formula Explained
Link Budget Formula:
L = 20 * log10(d) + 20 * log10(f) + 92.45 - Gt - Gr + Lt + Lr
Glossary of Variables
- L: Total Path Loss in dB
- f: Frequency in GHz
- d: Distance in km
- Gt: Transmitter Gain in dB
- Gr: Receiver Gain in dB
- Lt: Transmitter Loss in dB
- Lr: Receiver Loss in dB
Practical Example
How it Works: A Step-by-Step Example
Consider a satellite link with a frequency of 12 GHz and a distance of 36000 km. With a transmitter gain of 50 dB and receiver gain of 50 dB, using the formula, you can determine the total path loss and received signal strength.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is a satellite link budget?
A satellite link budget is a comprehensive analysis of all the gains and losses from the transmitter, through the medium (free space, cable, etc.), to the receiver in a telecommunication system.
How do you calculate a satellite link budget?
The calculation considers factors like satellite dish size, frequency, distance, and power losses to provide optimal signal quality and reliability.
Why is a link budget important?
It ensures that the communication link will work under various conditions by providing a reliable estimate of signal strength and quality.
Formula (LaTeX) + variables + units
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Link Budget Formula: L = 20 * log10(d) + 20 * log10(f) + 92.45 - Gt - Gr + Lt + Lr
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- NIST — Weights and measures — nist.gov · Accessed 2026-01-19
https://www.nist.gov/pml/weights-and-measures - FTC — Consumer advice — consumer.ftc.gov · Accessed 2026-01-19
https://consumer.ftc.gov/
Last code update: 2026-01-19
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