Line Of Sight Calculator
Calculate how far the horizon is from an antenna placed at a particular height.
Line of Sight distance calculator
The Line of Sight Calculator is a handy tool designed for professionals and enthusiasts in the field of RF communications, satellite systems, and wireless networks. It calculates the maximum line-of-sight distance between two antennas, taking into account their heights and the curvature of the Earth. This is essential for determining the feasibility of direct communication between antennas without obstacles blocking the signal (clear line of sight).
Note: This calculation assumes a clear line of sight with no obstructions such as terrain, buildings, or foliage.
How to Use the Calculator:
Input Antenna Heights: Enter the height of the first antenna in meters in the "Antenna Height 1" field. Then, input the height of the second antenna in the "Antenna Height 2" field.
Click Calculate: Press the "Calculate" button to instantly get the total line-of-sight distance.
View Results: The tool will display the maximum distance (in meters) where a clear line of sight is achievable between the two antennas.
Line of Sight Calculator
Common Antenna Heights and their Corresponding Line of Sight Distances
The table provides sample Line of Sight (LoS) distances for commonly used antenna heights, calculated by accounting for the Earth's curvature. These values are essential for engineers, technicians, and RF planners to determine the maximum possible communication range between two antennas under clear, unobstructed conditions.
The Antenna Heights are listed in meters.
The Line of Sight Distances are approximate values in meters, calculated using the formula:
| Antenna Height (meters) | Line of Sight Distance (meters) |
|---|---|
| 5 | 8,000 |
| 10 | 11,300 |
| 20 | 16,000 |
| 30 | 19,500 |
| 50 | 25,200 |
| 100 | 35,700 |
| 200 | 50,500 |
Line Of Sight FAQs
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Line of Sight (LoS) refers to the direct, unobstructed path between two antennas or communication points. It is critical for radio frequency (RF), microwave, and optical communication systems to ensure clear signal transmission.
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Line of Sight is crucial for wireless communication systems like radio, satellite, and microwave links because obstacles (buildings, hills, trees, etc.) can block or weaken the signal. Clear LoS ensures optimal signal strength and reliability.
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Yes, the Earth's curvature limits the distance of Line of Sight. As the height of the antenna increases, the LoS distance also increases because the signal can extend further beyond the curvature.
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Common obstacles that can obstruct Line of Sight include:
Buildings and urban infrastructure
Trees and vegetation
Mountains, hills, and other natural terrain
Atmospheric conditions, such as fog or heavy rain
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Line of Sight (LoS): A clear, unobstructed path between the transmitter and receiver.
Non-Line of Sight (NLoS): Occurs when obstacles block the path, requiring signals to diffract, reflect, or scatter to reach the receiver.
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The higher the antenna is placed, the further its Line of Sight distance will extend. This is because a taller antenna can "see" further over the Earth's curvature.
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A Line of Sight calculator helps RF engineers, telecom technicians, and network planners quickly estimate the maximum possible range for communication systems based on antenna heights. This ensures efficient design and deployment of networks.