Calculate Signal Power from dBm vs Wavelength Graph

In summary, the conversation is about a graph of "dBm vs Wavelength" and how to calculate the total power in a certain area of the graph. The suggestion is to convert the graph to "Power (Watts) vs Wavelength" and integrate within the required wavelength region. However, this may not be accurate as the y-axis is not clearly defined. It is suggested to use a quantity with dimensions of "power per unit wavelength" to properly calculate the total power.
  • #1
n0_3sc
243
1
I have a graph of "dBm vs Wavelength".
I want the total Power in a certain area of the graph.

Do I convert the graph to:
"Power (Watts) vs Wavelength" then just Integrate within the required wavelength region?
ie.
[tex] \int_{\lambda_1}^{\lambda_2} Power d\lambda = Total Power [/tex]
 
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  • #2
The way you described, you'll get some quantity with dimensions "power x length", which is not "power". If you had a graph of "Power per unit wavelength vs Wavelength", then you could integrate and obtain total power in the region of your choice. For example, see Planck's law in Wikipedia or somewhere else.
 
  • #3
n0_3sc said:
I have a graph of "dBm vs Wavelength".
You have not sufficiently described the quantity on the y-axis. Besides, are you sure it's not in units of dBm/Hz or somesuch? It is meaningless to speak of power at a given wavelength or frequency.
 
  • #4
The y-axis is a power measurement. It is in decibels with respect to a milliwatt (dBm).
Yes it is meaningless to talk of power per nm...

I realized now that it just needs to be some form of energy unit because it will be used as a ratio with other quantity's of the same units thus the units end up cancelling.
 

FAQ: Calculate Signal Power from dBm vs Wavelength Graph

How do I read a dBm vs Wavelength graph?

A dBm vs Wavelength graph displays the power levels of a signal at different wavelengths. The dBm scale is a logarithmic scale that represents power levels in decibels referenced to 1 milliwatt. The wavelength scale is typically shown in nanometers (nm) and represents the wavelength of the signal in the electromagnetic spectrum. To read the graph, locate the point on the graph where the signal power intersects with the corresponding wavelength value. The power level at that point is the signal power in dBm.

What is the relationship between dBm and wavelength?

Different wavelengths of a signal can have varying power levels, which is why a dBm vs Wavelength graph is used to display this relationship. As the wavelength decreases, the power level typically increases. This is because higher frequencies (shorter wavelengths) require more energy to transmit the signal.

How do I calculate signal power from a dBm vs Wavelength graph?

To calculate the signal power from a dBm vs Wavelength graph, simply read the power level at the desired wavelength point on the graph. For example, if the signal power intersects with the wavelength value of 1550 nm and the power level is -10 dBm, then the signal power is -10 dBm at 1550 nm.

What is the difference between dBm and Watts?

dBm and Watts are two different units of measurement for power. dBm is a logarithmic unit that represents power levels referenced to 1 milliwatt, while Watts (W) is a standard unit of measurement for power. To convert between dBm and Watts, you can use the formula: P(dBm) = 10*log(P(W)/1mW).

Can I use a dBm vs Wavelength graph to calculate signal power for all types of signals?

Yes, a dBm vs Wavelength graph can be used to calculate signal power for all types of signals, as long as the graph displays the power levels in dBm and the corresponding wavelengths. However, it is important to note that different types of signals may have different power levels at the same wavelength, so the graph may not be directly applicable in all cases.

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