Calculator Hub

Technology & Computing

Optical Link Budget & Receiver Sensitivity Margin Calculator

Calculate the optical power margin available in a fiber link after accounting for losses and receiver sensitivity.

Your inputs

Change any value to update the result instantly.

Technology & Computing
dBm
dB
dBm
dB

Available power margin

18 dB

Received power

-6 dBm

Margin after safety allowance

15 dB

Receiver sensitivity

-24 dBm

The link has adequate power margin even after your safety allowance.

Formula and working

Margin (dB) = Tx power (dBm) − total link loss (dB) − Rx sensitivity (dBm)

  1. 1

    Collect the inputs

    Transmitter power = 0 dBm; Total link loss (fiber + splices + connectors) = 6 dB; Receiver sensitivity = -24 dBm; Design safety margin = 3 dB

  2. 2

    Apply the formula

    Margin (dB) = Tx power (dBm) − total link loss (dB) − Rx sensitivity (dBm)

  3. 3

    Result

    Available power margin = 18 dB

Frequently asked questions

Important limitation

This is an educational estimate based only on the values and formula shown. Verify current rates, rules, units, and professional standards before relying on the result. It is not personalized financial or investment advice.

Report a mistake or request an improvement

Tell us if a formula, unit, explanation, or result needs attention. Your message will include this calculator’s name and page.

Related calculators

Back to Calculator Hub