So what is a Decibel(dB)?

 

  • Deci = 1/10 or 10 to the power of -1. (Remember Logarithms anyone?)
  • Bel is a measurement unit of electrical, thermal or mechanical power and was named in honor or Dr. Alexander Graham Bell.
  • A Decibel therefore equates to 1/10 of a Bel.
  • Generally, it's employed much in the same way that Political Pollsters play with sampling error rates of plus or minus X percentage points. In other words - there are acceptable dB gain or loss levels. If the readings or samples are found to be inside or outside of the acceptable spread, then:

    "Houston, we have a problem."

Using the formulas - the Translator will return dB (Gain/Loss/Ratios).

Units refer to:

 

  • Watts
  • Amps
  • Voltage
  • or any unit that relates to energy.

Format:

 

  • Standard Unit: X Units (10 Watts or 10 Volts for example.)
  • Mega:(M) 1,000,000.
  • Kilo:(k) 1,000.
  • Milli:(m) .001
  • Micro:(μ) .000,001

Note:

  • The Noise Voltage is the measurement without traffic or conversation (On hook).
  • The Signal Voltage includes the Noise Level along with traffic or conversation (Off hook).