Estimate matching network insertion loss from inductor Q, matching Q, and number of reactive elements. Shows how inductor quality factor limits matching network efficiency.
Interactive IL Estimator
Matching Network Insertion Loss from Component Q
Inductor IL contribution
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Capacitor IL contribution
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Total estimated IL
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Efficiency
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Insertion Loss Formula
For one reactive element with design Q_match and component Q_comp:
IL_element ≈ 4.34 × Q_match / Q_comp [dB]
Total IL ≈ N_L × 4.34 × Q_match / Q_L + N_C × 4.34 × Q_match / Q_C
where N_L = number of inductors, N_C = number of capacitors
Component Q vs Frequency Reference
Component
Frequency
Q (typical)
Murata LQP15 10nH (0402)
900 MHz
50–60
Murata LQP15 10nH (0402)
2.4 GHz
30–45
C0G 10pF (0402)
900 MHz
500–1500
C0G 10pF (0402)
2.4 GHz
300–1000
RF View Real Match: After estimating IL with this calculator, use RF View's Real Match to get the actual simulated IL with specific Murata components — includes SRF and package parasitics for higher accuracy. Free on Android.