As a Sarlink user, you most probably have heard about Starlink SNR. Whether or not you have heard about it before, do you know what it means?
The Starlink satellite network has become an important part of our daily lives. It is reliable and already has a wide coverage even in remote areas.
However, there are concepts that underpin this technology, which, as a user, you should understand. SNR is one such concept.
The Meaning of Starlink NSR and Why it is Significant
The Starlink SNR ratio, which stands for signal-no-noise, helps you measure the strength of the desired signal with regard to the background noise.
This ratio can be zero, a positive or a negative number. A positive ratio ( greater than zero), is an indication that the strength of the signal is greater than noise.
This implies that the quality of the signal is better when the ratio is higher. The negative ratio is the exact opposite.
That said, you can use SNR to determine the best output you can get with your signal.
How You Can Calculate Your Starlink SNR
You can calculate your Stralink SNR by simply subtracting the quantity of noise from the signal required.
This is the simplest and the most common formula used. We measure the signal-noise ratio in decibels.
That is to say, SNR – S-N, with S and N representing the quantity of the signal and the level of noise, respectively.
Suppose you are getting a signal of 20 dBm while the level of noise is -10.
You can determine Starlink SNR by taking (-20(-40)) to get 20 dB. But what value of SNR is good for your signal? Look at the following values:
- 5dB -10dB: We consider this range below the minimum requirement to establish a connection (no signal).
- 10 dB – 15 dB: This is the accepted minimum level of SNR to establish an unreliable connection ( very low signal).
- 15 dB – 25 dB: We consider this level minimally acceptable to set up a poor connection ( low signal).
- 25 dB – 40 dB: We consider this a very good signal ( fast).
- At least 41 dB: We consider this an excellent level ( very fast).
The Meaning of SNR Ratio of 1
Have you calculated your Starlink SNR and found 1? Are you wondering what it means?
The signal-to-noise ratio of 1 implies that you are getting 1 dB of useful information and 1 dB of noise.
This ratio is expressed as 1:1. This is not a desired SNR because your signal has the same strength as noise.
What Causes Low Starlink SNR?
Low Starlink SNR is a common occurrence and it is a result of various factors. The following common causative agent of this complication:
- The density of spectral power
- Electronic systems
- The densities of the radio and waves
- Magnetic fields
- Environmental phenomena such as rain, wind, snow, humidity, temperature, and the attraction of the moon to gravitational force
Improve Your Starlink SNR
You can improve your SNR by either raising the overall volume of the signal before the introduction of the noise or by reducing the volume of the noise.
Noise is commonly caused by the measurements of the devices. This kind of noise adds to the total error of measurements.
They end up obscuring smaller volume signals that reduce the total dynamic range of the device of measurement.
The following is a comprehensive guide on how you can improve Stralink SNR.
Reduce the length of the lead wire. Reducing the length of a wire usually reduces interference and this can improve Starlink SNR.
Keeping the lead wire away from noise as much as possible can also help improve the Starlink SNR.
Close it in a shield connected to the device used for measurement.
Another way of improving Starlink SNR is by using a measurement device with a huge dynamic range.
The range describes the level of noise with regard to the complete range of input of the measurement device.
Lastly and very crucial, raise the volume of the signal. Simply raise the volume of the excitation of the voltage.
Starlink satellite internet service concept
How to Choose a Starlink Optimal Excitation Level
Increasing the voltage of excitation goes a long way in improving the ratio of the signal-to-noise.
A change in the output voltage for a certain strain level increases in direct proportionality to the voltage of excitation.
While you would want to achieve the recommended value of bridge excitation voltage for a specific gauge size, you should note that it is impossible.
This is because there are several elements that impede the optimal excitation level of strain gauges.
You should note that strain gauges are rarely damaged by excess values of excitation packages.
Rather than the gauge failing, the common result is a degradation of performance.
Elements Influencing Excitation Level
- The grid area of the strain gauge.
- The resistance of the gauge – a higher resistance allows for higher voltages.
- The mounting surface’s heat sink properties. For example, aluminum and copper are great heat sinks because they are high thermal conductors. On the other hand, titanium and steel are poor heat sinks because they are low thermal conductors.
- Environmental temperature for operation for installation of the gauge.
- The technique for installation and wiring – any discontinuities or damages during the installation may cause complications.
Final Remarks
Starlink SNR is, undoubtedly very crucial in helping you identify whether or not your signal is strong.
With the information provided by SNR, you can also improve your signal by applying various corrective measures in the event that it is weak.
You can get the most desired Starlink SNR by making a number of adjustments.
Minimizing the length of the lead wire and keeping it away from noise, using measurement devices with huge dynamic ranges, among others, are some of the measures.
