Enter the input and output power levels in decibels (dB) into the calculator to determine the dB loss. The dB loss is a measure of signal attenuation.

dB Loss Formula

The following formula is used to calculate the dB loss.

dB Loss = Input Power (dB) - Output Power (dB)

Variables:

  • Input Power (dB) is the power level of the signal before attenuation.
  • Output Power (dB) is the power level of the signal after attenuation.

To calculate dB loss, subtract the output power level from the input power level.

What is dB Loss?

dB Loss, or decibel loss, quantifies the reduction in signal strength as it travels through a medium or an electronic component. It is a logarithmic measure used in electronics, telecommunications, and acoustics to describe the attenuation or loss of signal power. Understanding dB loss is crucial for designing systems that require signal transmission over long distances or through various materials.

How to Calculate dB Loss?

The following steps outline how to calculate the dB Loss.


  1. First, determine the input power level (in dB) of the signal before attenuation.
  2. Next, determine the output power level (in dB) of the signal after attenuation.
  3. Use the formula dB Loss = Input Power (dB) – Output Power (dB).
  4. Finally, calculate the dB Loss.
  5. After inserting the variables and calculating the result, check your answer with the calculator above.

Example Problem : 

Use the following variables as an example problem to test your knowledge.

Input Power (dB) = 100 dB

Output Power (dB) = 85 dB