Receiver Dynamic Range : Part 1

The task of the radio receiver has always been to “get the signal.” However, with the proliferation of high-powered transmitters and the burgeoning growth of electronic noise pollution, often weak-signal reception is difficult, if not impossible. Receiver dynamic range is the measure of a receiver’s ability to handle a range of signal strengths, from the weakest to the strongest. Because of the severe dynamic range requirements placed on modern receivers, it is imperative to define rational criteria for evaluating receiver performance. This two-part article provides a tutorial review of receiver dynamic-range specifications and measurements. It discusses the limits and applicability of the various measurements, highlighting potential errors and misleading specifications. Procedures for estimating and measuring true receiver performance are recommended.