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Electrical

VSWR to Reflection Coefficient Calculator

Convert standing-wave ratio into reflection magnitude, return loss and reflected-power percentage.

Ideal component relationshipsUnits and assumptions explained below
Circuit workbench
Circuit workbench

Keep RMS, peak and DC values distinct.

See the method

Enter circuit values

Runs on your device

Your circuit result

Your result

Let’s calculate.

Use the Calculate button to see your result.

Review the method below for assumptions and conventions.

How to use this tool

  1. Enter vswr.
  2. Select Calculate to view the result.
  3. Check the method and assumptions below before using the result.

The method, explained

Reflection magnitude = (VSWR−1)/(VSWR+1); reflected power fraction = magnitude²; return loss = −20log10(magnitude).

A WORKED EXAMPLE

Using vswr = 2, the result is 0.333333333. Change these example inputs to match your task; use the method above to check each step.

Understanding your result

Magnitude only; does not recover the phase of the reflection coefficient or the complex load impedance.

What to keep in mind

Magnitude only; does not recover the phase of the reflection coefficient or the complex load impedance. Ideal-component calculation for study and estimation. It does not select safe wiring, protective devices or component ratings for an installation.

Common questions

How do I use this vswr to reflection coefficient calculator?

Convert standing-wave ratio into reflection magnitude, return loss and reflected-power percentage. Enter vswr. The starting example is editable; use values for the same system or project.

Which assumptions affect this result?

Magnitude only; does not recover the phase of the reflection coefficient or the complex load impedance.

Methodology maintained by ClarityKit. How these tools are built and checked.