minimum discernable signal (MDS)

A Minimum Discernable Signal (MDS) is a signal that is just perceptible. This characteristic value is used in high frequency technology and refers to an RF signal at an input of an RF amplifier, antenna amplifier or measuring device that is just above the noise level. The MDS value refers to an RF power and is given in decibels milliwatts( dBm).

The level of Minimum Discernable Signals is below the Minimum Detectable Signal.