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Wireless & Mobility · Foundational

Isotropic Radiator

A theoretical point source that radiates energy equally in every direction in a perfect sphere.

Definition

An isotropic radiator cannot exist physically but serves as the reference for antenna gain (dBi) and EIRP calculations. Real antennas concentrate energy in some directions at the expense of others. Free space path loss formulas also assume isotropic antennas.

Exam tip

Remember: no real antenna is isotropic; even the simplest dipole has gain.

Related terms