signal level
Definition
Noun: The amplitude level of a desired signal, typically measured in units such as volts, decibels (dB), or digital units, representing its strength or power at a specific point in a transmission or processing system.
Usage
This term is used primarily in technical fields such as telecommunications, audio engineering, broadcasting, and electronics to quantify the strength of an electrical, optical, or radio signal. * The engineer adjusted the amplifier to increase the signal level. * A low signal level at the receiver can cause poor audio quality. * The specification requires a minimum input signal level of -10 dBV.
Advanced Usage
- Signal-to-noise ratio (SNR): A key performance metric where the signal level is compared to the level of background noise. A high SNR indicates a clear signal.
- The audio system's high signal level relative to the noise floor resulted in an excellent signal-to-noise ratio.
- Reference level: A standard signal level used as a calibration point in audio and video systems (e.g., 0 dBu in professional audio).
- Align all equipment to the standard reference signal level before recording.
Variants and Related Words
- Signal Strength: A closely related term often used interchangeably, though it can imply a more qualitative assessment, especially in wireless communications.
- Amplitude: The maximum extent of a vibration or oscillation, which directly determines the signal level.
- Gain: The increase in signal level provided by an amplifier.
Synonyms
- Signal strength
- Amplitude level
- Signal power (in a specific context, though power is a related but distinct measurement)
Related Phrases and Compound Terms
- Signal level meter: An instrument used to measure the signal level.
- The technician used a signal level meter to check the output from the transmitter.
- Peak signal level: The maximum instantaneous signal level.
- Average signal level: The mean signal level over a period of time.
Noun
-
the amplitude level of the desired signal
