Calculations: System Operating Margin (SOM)

The System Operating Margin can be calculated by the formula listed below. SOM is the difference between the signal a radio is actually receiving vs. what it needs for good data recovery (i.e. receiver sensitivity). For further information on this formula, please review the figure below.

Note: This calculator is valid for frequencies below 6 GHz. The final values represent a first order approximation and should only be used as a guide. No guarantees or warranties are implied accordingly.

Notes:

When calculation the system operating margin and you are using an amplifier on the receive side, do not add the amps RX gain to the SOM equation. To learn why, visit our RF Link and Amplifier FAQs.