Reflection Coefficient Calculator
Enter the load and line impedances to find Γ, VSWR and return loss.
Result
How to use
- Enter your values in the fields above.
- Press Calculate to see your result instantly.
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About this calculator
When a transmission line's characteristic impedance doesn't match the load impedance connected to it, some of the signal reflects back instead of being absorbed. The reflection coefficient Γ quantifies this: Γ = (Z_load − Z_line) / (Z_load + Z_line). From Γ, the Voltage Standing Wave Ratio (VSWR) = (1 + |Γ|) / (1 − |Γ|) and the return loss (dB) = −20·log₁₀|Γ| follow directly.
RF and microwave engineers use these three related numbers to check how well an antenna, filter, or component is matched to its feed line — a perfect match gives Γ = 0, VSWR = 1, and infinite return loss, while a poor match wastes transmitted power and can even damage a transmitter.
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