Power Conversion:
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dBm (decibels relative to 1 milliwatt) is a logarithmic unit used to measure power levels. Converting dBm to milliwatts (mW) provides an absolute power measurement that's easier to interpret in many practical applications.
The calculator uses the following conversion formula:
Where:
Explanation: Since dBm is a logarithmic unit, we use exponentiation to convert it back to the linear milliwatt scale.
Details: Converting between dBm and mW is essential in RF engineering, telecommunications, and network design where power levels need to be precisely measured and compared.
Tips: Simply enter the power value in dBm and click calculate. The result will show the equivalent power in milliwatts.
Q1: What does 0 dBm represent?
A: 0 dBm equals exactly 1 milliwatt (mW). This is the reference level for dBm measurements.
Q2: How many mW is 10 dBm?
A: 10 dBm equals 10 mW. Each 10 dB increase represents a 10-fold increase in power.
Q3: What's the difference between dB and dBm?
A: dB is a relative unit (ratio), while dBm is absolute (referenced to 1 mW). dBm specifies actual power level.
Q4: Why use dBm instead of mW?
A: dBm is useful for expressing very large or small power levels and simplifies calculations involving gains/losses.
Q5: What's a typical WiFi signal strength in mW?
A: A strong WiFi signal might be -40 dBm (0.0001 mW), while -70 dBm (0.0000001 mW) would be weak.