A Simple Approach to the Conversion of Decibels to Absolute Ratios

A simple approach to calculation of the power ratios equivalent to integral values of decibels is presented. The method includes a novel technique for evaluation of the power-ratio equivalents of unit values of decibels (i.e., 1, 2, 3, ..., 10 dB) using simple mental arithmetic. The method gives students dexterity in the use of decibels more rapidly than can be achieved by reliance on evaluation of the defining equation using, for instance, a calculator. It also gives insights into the meaning of decibels and their engineering significance, plus an appreciation of realistic engineering approximations.