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Coaxial Cable Loss Calculator
Estimate RF coaxial cable attenuation, output power, and power delivered through common coax types or a custom cable-loss value. Use this for antenna feed lines, RF test setups, Wi-Fi, LoRa, cellular, and lab cables.
Input Parameters
Results
Equations Used
Total Loss: Cable Loss = Loss per 100 m × length / 100
Output Power: Pout(dBm) = Pin(dBm) - cable loss(dB)
Power Ratio: Pout/Pin = 10^(-loss/10)
Built-in cable types use approximate frequency-dependent models. Manufacturer datasheets are preferred for final design.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Why does coax loss increase with frequency?
Skin effect and dielectric loss increase with frequency, so the same cable has more loss at higher RF frequencies.
Q2: Is LMR-400 lower loss than RG-58?
Usually yes. Larger low-loss cables often have much less attenuation than small flexible cables.
Q3: Should I include connector loss?
Yes. Add connector, adapter, lightning arrestor, and jumper losses to the link budget separately if they are not included here.
Q4: Can this be used for Wi-Fi antennas?
Yes. It helps estimate feed-line loss at 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz, where cable loss can be significant.
Q5: Why should I use custom loss mode?
Exact cable loss depends on manufacturer, construction, frequency, temperature, and installation. Datasheet loss values give the best estimate.
