The term S meter is used to measure signal strength in radio communication. It is spelled as /ɛs/ - /ˈmitər/ using the International Phonetic Alphabet. The first part of the word is represented by the phoneme /ɛs/, which is the sound of the letter "S". The second part is spelled as /ˈmitər/ with stress on the second syllable, represented by the phoneme /ˈmitər/, which is the sound of the word "meter". This spelling accurately represents the pronunciation of S meter in English language.
An S meter is an instrument or meter found on a radio receiver or transceiver that is utilized to measure and display the strength of an incoming radio signal. The primary function of the S meter is to provide a visual indication of the signal strength, typically measured in decibels relative to a reference level.
The S meter usually consists of a needle or a bar graph display that can indicate different S-units, with each unit representing a specific signal strength level. These levels are typically denoted by numbers ranging from 1 to 9, with 1 being the weakest and 9 the strongest signal strength. The S units are often logarithmically proportional to the power ratio of the received signal to the reference signal.
The S meter serves as a valuable tool for radio operators as it allows them to gauge the quality and reliability of the received signal. It aids in determining the readability and strength of the incoming transmission, ultimately assisting operators in adjusting their equipment or antenna setup to optimize signal reception.
The S meter is commonly used in amateur radio, shortwave radio, and other radio communication systems. It provides a standardized method for assessing signal strength, which is essential for effective communication, especially in challenging or distant conditions.
The term "S meter" originates from the field of amateur radio, specifically from the measurement of signal strength on a receiver. "S" stands for "signal", and the term "S meter" was coined to describe the instrument used to measure the signal strength in units called "S-units". This standardized meter was first introduced in the early 1930s and has since become a common feature in amateur radio equipment.