Estimate velocity factor, effective dielectric constant, wavelength, and one-way signal delay. Select a calculation and enter the displayed inputs. Presets are illustrative: use your exact cable’s datasheet or measured velocity factor. Material calculations assume a uniform, nonmagnetic, low-loss dielectric; PCB traces may require effective permittivity.
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Velocity Factor Formula
The following formula and example outline an ideal estimate of velocity factor.
Variables:
- VF is the dimensionless ratio of propagation speed to vacuum light speed (0 < VF ≤ 1 in this model)
- k is the dielectric constant
For the ideal nonmagnetic dielectric model, divide 1 by the square root of the relative dielectric constant (εr ≥ 1). The inverse gives effective εr = 1 / VF².
How to Calculate Velocity Factor?
The following steps outline how to calculate the Velocity Factor.
- First, determine the dielectric constant.
- Next, gather the formula from above = VF = 1 / SQRT(k).
- Finally, calculate the Velocity Factor.
- 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.
dielectric constant = 2.53
VF = 1 / SQRT(k) = ?
