2026.09.07
Why high transmit power is only half the wireless equation
For systems, IoT and firmware engineers who are good at working with sensors and firmware, radio installations fall into unfamiliar territory.
First let us review some of the possible errors that engineers make when aiming for a reliable radio link.
Focusing on the transmitter power.
- When designing a wireless link, it’s easy to focus almost entirely on the transmitter.
- After all, boosting transmit power feels like the most direct way to gain range.
Focusing on the sensitivity.
- For the receiver, it is easy to default to the most concievable parameter – sensitivity.
- However without adequate filtering, unwanted signals can easily overwhelm the receiver.
The right receiver dictates link reliability.
- What engineers do not realise that in today’s congested spectrum, the right receiver is what dictates link reliability.
- Good sensitivity is important, but you need to weigh all parameters to determine overall receiver performance.
- It can be hard to tell how a particular receiver excels when looking at the specification values and units.
Receiver blocking performance: |
Our article “Understanding receiver specifications” is a break down of all the parameters covering radio receiver performance and how they are measured.
You will be able to establish a baseline when it comes to reviewing various radio modules.