TV antenna amplifier noise calculation

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the calculations related to a 4-way TV antenna amplifier, specifically focusing on determining the required input voltage for maximum output and calculating the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) based on given specifications and input levels. The scope includes homework-related calculations and technical reasoning.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • The first participant presents calculations for the required input voltage and SNR based on the amplifier's specifications.
  • Another participant challenges the second part of the calculation, suggesting that the approach could be simplified by working directly in dB without converting to voltage.
  • A subsequent reply confirms the initial calculations but notes a misunderstanding regarding unit conversions.
  • Further clarification is provided, with agreement on the calculations presented by the first participant.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is partial agreement on the calculations, but some disagreement exists regarding the method used for calculating SNR, particularly the necessity of converting to voltage versus working directly in dB.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights potential confusion regarding unit conversions and the application of logarithmic calculations in the context of SNR. Specific assumptions about the method of calculation and the interpretation of dB values are not fully resolved.

bizuputyi
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Homework Statement



Hello everyone. A 4-way TV antenna amplifier has the following specifications:

Bandwidth = 40-862Mhz
Gain = 20dB
Noise figure = 6 dB
Max output = 85dBuV
Input impedance = output impedance = 75 ohm

Question 1: Calculate the required voltage on the input of the amplifier to achieve 85dBuV max output.

Question 2: If the aerial signal level is 5dBmV and the input noise level is 20dBuV, determine SNR (signal-to-noise ratio) on the output of the amplifier.

Homework Equations



##SNR = 20 log (\frac{V_{signal}}{V_{noise}})##

The Attempt at a Solution



Question 1:

Max output = max input neglecting noise and distortion + amplifier gain
85dBuV = max input + 20dB
Max input = 65dbuV

Input voltage = ##antilog (\frac{65}{20})## = 1.778mV

Question 2:

5dBmV = ##antilog (\frac{5}{20})## = 1.778mV
20dBuV = ##antilog (\frac{20}{20})## = 0.01mV

##SNR_{in} = 20 log (\frac{1.778}{0.01})## = 45dB

##SNR_{out} = SNR_{in} - noise figure## = 45 - 6 = 39dB

Am I thinking correctly? Thank you for your comments.
 
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1 is correct, 2 is not--you messed up an antilog There's no need to convert to volyage for #2. it's simpler to just work in dB straight through.
 
Right, okay. In that case:

5dBmV + 60 = 65dBuV

##SNR_{in dB} = 65 - 20 = 45dB##
##SNR_{out dB} = SNR_{in dB} - noise figure = 45 - 6 = 39dB##

I get the same results. Where am I mistaken?
 
Sorry, I wasn't looking carefully at the units. I agree with your calculation.
 
Thank you.
 

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