|Γ|
VSWR
RL · dB
ML · dB
1.00f₀ · GHz
Smith chart Z chart · drag the load to set Zload
click anywhere on the chart to drop the load · drag to move
Zload = 50 + j0 Ω Z₀ = 50 Ω match: —
drag · click · use sliders — all three set the same load impedance
Reference Z₀ characteristic impedance
Z₀ (line impedance)50Ω
50 Ω: most coax, RF lab gear. 75 Ω: cable TV / SDI. 300 Ω: balanced TV ribbon.
Load impedance R + jX (Ω)
Frequency sweep series-RLC model
Telemetry RF derived quantities
|Γ| (reflection coeff.)
VSWR
Return loss
Mismatch loss
z (normalised)
Γ (re + j im)
Matching network L-network solution

Hit Match to 50 Ω to compute the network.

About the Smith chart 1939 · Phillip H. Smith
1939 — Phillip H. Smith

The Smith chart maps every possible complex impedance onto the unit disc of the reflection coefficient Γ = (z − 1) / (z + 1). The right edge is an open circuit, the left edge is a short, the centre is a perfect 50 Ω match.

Constant-R circles tangent to the right edge, constant-X arcs tangent at the open. Add a series reactance and your impedance walks along a constant-R circle. Add a shunt susceptance and it walks along a constant-G circle. Two such walks land you at the centre.

The chart predates digital computing — Smith drew it at Bell Labs to do impedance arithmetic graphically. Half a century later it's still the standard whiteboard for RF design.