Plain-language answer: Receiver sensitivity is the minimum input signal that achieves a stated output quality such as SINAD, SNR, or bit-error rate under defined conditions.
Why the definition matters
A lower number is meaningful only when bandwidth, mode, test criterion, and frequency are the same. Real weak-signal performance also depends on noise figure and local noise.
Use the number correctly
Compare specifications with identical criteria and verify that the antenna-site noise floor is low enough for the difference to matter.
The common mistake
Choosing a receiver from the smallest sensitivity number while ignoring bandwidth and test method.
Measurement and safety boundary
Keep reference units, bandwidth, detector, direction, averaging, and test conditions attached to every number. Current regulator requirements and the complete installed system control RF-exposure compliance.
