Enter the overall noise figure (dB) and the noise floor (dB) into the Calculator. The calculator will evaluate the Receiver Sensitivity. 

Receiver Sensitivity Formula

RS = OSF + NF

Variables:

  • RS is the Receiver Sensitivity (dB)
  • OSF is the overall noise figure (dB)
  • NF is the noise floor (dB)

To calculate Receiver Sensitivity, add the overall noise figure to the noise floor.

How to Calculate Receiver Sensitivity?

The following steps outline how to calculate the Receiver Sensitivity.


  1. First, determine the overall noise figure (dB). 
  2. Next, determine the noise floor (dB). 
  3. Next, gather the formula from above = RS = OSF + NF.
  4. Finally, calculate the Receiver Sensitivity.
  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.

overall noise figure (dB) = 100

noise floor (dB) = 200

FAQs about Receiver Sensitivity and Related Concepts

What is Receiver Sensitivity and why is it important?

Receiver Sensitivity refers to the minimum signal strength a receiver can detect and decode. It is crucial in communication systems as it determines the lower limit of signal strength for reliable reception, affecting the range and quality of the communication.

How does the noise floor affect Receiver Sensitivity?

The noise floor, being the measure of the signal created from the sum of all the noise sources and unwanted signals within a system, directly impacts Receiver Sensitivity. A higher noise floor requires a stronger signal to be distinguished from noise, hence reducing receiver sensitivity.

What is the difference between Receiver Sensitivity and Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR)?

While Receiver Sensitivity measures the minimum signal strength required for detection, SNR compares the level of a desired signal to the level of background noise. Both are critical for assessing the performance of a communication system, but they focus on different aspects of signal quality.

Can Receiver Sensitivity be improved? If yes, how?

Yes, Receiver Sensitivity can be improved by reducing the noise floor, using more sensitive receiving equipment, or employing better signal processing techniques. Enhancing antenna quality and positioning can also contribute to improved sensitivity.