Calculate Signal Power from dBm vs Wavelength Graph

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To calculate total power from a "dBm vs Wavelength" graph, it is essential to convert the data to "Power (Watts) vs Wavelength" before integrating over the desired wavelength range. Integrating without proper conversion may yield incorrect dimensions, such as "power x length," rather than total power. The graph's y-axis represents power in dBm, but clarity on whether it is in dBm/Hz is necessary for accurate calculations. It is crucial to ensure that the units used for energy measurements are consistent, as they will cancel out when used in ratios. Proper unit conversion and understanding of the graph's dimensions are vital for accurate power calculations.
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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.
\int_{\lambda_1}^{\lambda_2} Power d\lambda = Total Power
 
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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.
 
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.
 
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.
 

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