This calculator converts the noise temperature of a device expressed in kelvins (K) into noise figure (dB). It helps evaluate the performance of amplifiers, receivers and RF components in terms of noise added to the signal.
Useful for RF engineers, satellite receiver system designers, and students who want to compare the performance of different components based on their noise temperature.
Formula
NF(dB) = 10 × log10((T Noise / T REF ) + 1)
Explanation of the formula
- T Noise corresponds to the noise temperature of the device, measured in kelvins (K).
- T REF is the reference temperature, generally 290 K.
- The T Noise /T REF ratio represents the relative contribution of the device noise compared to the thermal reference.
- Converting to decibels (dB) makes it easier to compare performance between different devices.
Conversion of 100 K to noise figure
Input : T Noise = 100 K, T REF = 290 K
Output : NC ≈ 1.36 dB
Benefits and uses
- Allows you to evaluate the performance of low noise amplifiers (LNA).
- Facilitates comparison between different RF equipment and receiving systems.
- Essential for designing high-sensitivity receiver chains.
- Useful tool for telecommunications engineers and researchers.