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Wireless & Mobility · Intermediate

Receiver Sensitivity

The weakest signal a receiver can decode at a specified data rate and error rate.

Definition

Receiver sensitivity is listed per data rate in radio datasheets; higher data rates need stronger signals. A radio might decode MCS 0 at -92 dBm but require -65 dBm for MCS 11. Sensitivity determines the edge of usable coverage for each rate.

Example

An AP datasheet lists -96 dBm sensitivity for 6 Mbps and -70 dBm for 54 Mbps.

Exam tip

More complex modulation needs stronger signal and higher SNR.

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