dBi

What is another word for dBi? Here is its meaning, with related words and examples.

Noun — A unit of antenna gain, measuring in decibels how much more strongly an antenna radiates or receives in its best direction compared with a theoretical isotropic antenna that radiates equally in every direction. A higher dBi figure means a narrower, more focused beam and greater range in that direction.

We haven't recorded synonyms for dBi yet. You can still read its full definition, where it comes from, or words that rhyme with it.

How to use dBi

The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.

antenna gain 5 dBi antenna high-gain

Technical. Written with a lower-case d and capital B, as with all decibel units.

Etymology

From decibel plus i for isotropic, the idealised reference antenna against which the gain is measured.

Full origin of dBi →

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between dBi and dBd?

dBi compares an antenna with a theoretical isotropic radiator, while dBd compares it with a half-wave dipole. A dipole itself has about 2.15 dBi, so you convert by adding 2.15 to a dBd figure to get dBi.

Does a higher dBi antenna always mean better Wi-Fi?

No. Higher dBi does not add power, it concentrates it into a flatter, narrower beam. That helps over distance on one floor but can leave rooms above and below with a weaker signal than a lower-gain antenna would give.

Nearby words

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