RF Glossary: I | Terms Starting with I

IF (Intermediate Frequency) — The frequency to which an RF signal is converted in a superheterodyne receiver for easier amplification, filtering, and demodulation.

Impedance — The total opposition to current flow in an AC circuit, consisting of resistance and reactance, measured in ohms.

Impedance Matching — The process of designing a network to transform one impedance to another, maximizing power transfer and minimizing reflections.

Insertion Loss (IL) — The loss of signal power resulting from inserting a device into a transmission line, expressed in dB. It includes dissipative and mismatch losses.

Intermodulation (IMD) — Unwanted signals generated when two or more signals mix in a nonlinear device, producing outputs at combinations of the input frequencies.

IP3 (Third-Order Intercept Point) — A theoretical point where the fundamental and third-order intermodulation products would have equal power, characterizing amplifier linearity.

Isolator — A two-port ferrite device that allows RF energy to pass in one direction while absorbing energy traveling in the reverse direction.

Isotropic Radiator — A theoretical antenna that radiates equally in all directions. Used as a reference for antenna gain measurements expressed in dBi.

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