Path Loss Budget Calculator

Comprehensive path loss analysis including all propagation factors.

Basic Parameters

Environmental Factors

0-20 dB typical for trees
10-30 dB typical
Use Rain Fade Calculator
Body loss, polarization, etc.

Atmospheric Conditions

Typical Path Loss Values

Scenario FSPL Additional
LOS Microwave 10km120-140 dB2-5 dB
Cellular 1km Urban100-110 dB20-40 dB
WiFi Indoor 30m60-70 dB10-30 dB
mmWave 100m110-120 dB5-20 dB

Path Loss Formula

Free Space Path Loss (Friis)

FSPL(dB) = 20*log10(d) + 20*log10(f) + 92.45
d = distance in km, f = frequency in GHz

FSPL represents the ideal loss in free space with no obstructions, reflections, or absorption.

Total Path Loss

PL_total = FSPL + L_atmos + L_rain + L_foliage + L_building + L_misc
  • Atmospheric absorption significant above 10 GHz
  • Rain loss critical above 6 GHz
  • Building penetration varies 10-40 dB