Frequency Converter - Free Online Tool

Convert frequency units instantly. Support for 5+ units including Hertz, Kilohertz, Megahertz. Free calculator with accurate conversions, formula, and table.

πŸ“» Frequency Converter

Select your units from the lists below

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From Unit
  • Hertz

    Symbol: Hz

  • Kilohertz

    Symbol: kHz

  • Megahertz

    Symbol: MHz

  • Gigahertz

    Symbol: GHz

  • Terahertz

    Symbol: THz
To Unit
  • Hertz

    Symbol: Hz

  • Kilohertz

    Symbol: kHz

  • Megahertz

    Symbol: MHz

  • Gigahertz

    Symbol: GHz

  • Terahertz

    Symbol: THz

πŸ“» Frequency Converter

Frequency measurements appear in electronics, telecommunications, and physics. Convert between hertz, kilohertz, megahertz, gigahertz, and other frequency units instantly. Whether you're working with radio signals, electronic circuits, or scientific research, our converter handles the math.

πŸ“» About Frequency

Frequency measures how often a periodic event repeats per unit timeβ€”the rate of oscillation or cycles per second. In the International System of Units (SI), frequency is measured in hertz (Hz), defined as one cycle per second. From electronics and telecommunications to physics and many scientific fields, frequency measurements are used everywhere. Different applications use different scales. Radio frequencies are measured in kilohertz or megahertz, while computer processors operate in gigahertz. Working with all these units helps with electronics design, telecommunications, and scientific research.

Understanding Frequency Measurement

Frequency is a measure of how often a periodic event repeats per unit time, typically expressed as cycles per second. In the International System of Units (SI), frequency is measured in hertz (Hz), a derived unit defined as the reciprocal of the second (1 Hz = 1 s⁻¹). The hertz is named after Heinrich Rudolf Hertz, who first demonstrated the existence of electromagnetic waves in the late 1880s. Since frequency is the inverse of period (the time for one complete cycle), the relationship is fundamental: frequency equals one divided by period. The hertz inherits precision from the definition of the second, which since 1967 has been based on the cesium-133 atomic transition frequency of exactly 9,192,631,770 hertz.

πŸ“œ History & Context

The history of frequency measurement dates back to early observations of periodic phenomena, but the scientific understanding developed with the study of waves and oscillations. Before the adoption of "hertz," frequency was commonly expressed as "cycles per second" (cps), with units like kilocycles and megacycles. The unit "hertz" was proposed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) in 1930 in honor of Heinrich Rudolf Hertz, who demonstrated electromagnetic waves in 1887. The term was formally adopted by the 9th General Conference on Weights and Measures in 1946 and became part of the International System of Units (SI) in 1960, gradually replacing "cycles per second" in scientific and technical usage. The modern precision of frequency measurement comes from atomic clocks. In 1967, the second was redefined using the cesium-133 atomic transition, establishing a frequency standard of exactly 9,192,631,770 hertz. This atomic definition provides the foundation for precise frequency measurements used in timekeeping, navigation, and scientific research worldwide.

✨ Fun Facts

  • β€’ The hertz is named after Heinrich Rudolf Hertz, who in 1887 first demonstrated the existence of electromagnetic waves, confirming James Clerk Maxwell's theoretical predictions.
  • β€’ Before "hertz" was adopted, frequency was measured in "cycles per second" (cps), with terms like "kilocycles" and "megacycles" commonly used in radio and electronics.
  • β€’ The second is defined by the cesium-133 atomic transition frequency of exactly 9,192,631,770 hertz, making frequency measurement one of the most precise physical measurements possible.
  • β€’ Standard AC power grid frequency is 50 hertz in most of the world and 60 hertz in North America, with deviations indicating power system imbalances.
  • β€’ Computer processor speeds are measured in gigahertz (billions of cycles per second), while radio frequencies span from kilohertz to gigahertz depending on the application.

πŸ’‘ Real-World Examples

  • β€’ Electronics and computing: Processor clock speeds are measured in gigahertz, while circuit oscillators use various frequencies. Converting between units helps with design and compatibility analysis.
  • β€’ Radio and telecommunications: Radio stations broadcast at specific frequencies in kilohertz or megahertz. Converting between units helps with frequency planning and regulatory compliance.
  • β€’ Power systems: Electrical grid frequency is maintained at 50 or 60 hertz depending on region. Converting between units helps with international power system coordination.
  • β€’ Audio and acoustics: Sound frequencies are measured in hertz, with human hearing ranging from about 20 to 20,000 hertz. Converting between units helps with audio engineering and music production.
  • β€’ Medical imaging: Ultrasound machines operate at frequencies in megahertz. Converting between units helps with equipment specification and medical device compatibility.
  • β€’ Scientific research: Atomic transitions and spectroscopy measure frequencies in various units. Converting between units helps with reporting and international collaboration.
  • β€’ Wireless communications: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and cellular networks operate at specific frequencies in gigahertz. Converting between units helps with technology comparison and spectrum planning.
  • β€’ Time and frequency standards: Atomic clocks and precision timing systems measure frequencies with extreme accuracy. Converting between units helps with calibration and standards.

πŸ”§ Common Applications

  • β€’ Electronics and telecommunications: Circuit design, signal processing, and communication systems measure frequencies in various units. Converting between units helps with design and compatibility.
  • β€’ Power systems and electrical engineering: Grid frequency monitoring, power quality analysis, and electrical equipment specification use frequency measurements. Converting between units helps with international standards.
  • β€’ Scientific research: Physics experiments, spectroscopy, and atomic physics measure frequencies with high precision. Converting between units helps with reporting and international collaboration.
  • β€’ Audio and acoustics: Sound engineering, music production, and acoustic analysis measure frequencies in hertz. Converting between units helps with equipment specification and frequency response analysis.
  • β€’ Time and frequency standards: Atomic clocks, precision timing, and frequency calibration need accurate measurements. Converting between units helps maintain international time standards.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

+ How do I convert hertz to kilohertz?

To convert hertz (Hz) to kilohertz (kHz), divide the hertz value by 1,000. For example, 1,000 Hz equals 1 kHz, and 5,000 Hz equals 5 kHz. Hertz is the SI unit for frequency, representing cycles per second.

+ What is a hertz and how is it defined?

A hertz (Hz) is the SI unit of frequency, defined as one cycle per second. It measures how often a periodic event occurs. For example, 60 Hz means 60 cycles per second. The unit is named after Heinrich Hertz, who demonstrated electromagnetic waves.

+ How do I convert megahertz to gigahertz?

To convert megahertz (MHz) to gigahertz (GHz), divide the megahertz value by 1,000. For example, 1,000 MHz equals 1 GHz, and 2,500 MHz equals 2.5 GHz. These units are commonly used for computer processors and radio frequencies.

+ What is the relationship between frequency and period?

Frequency and period are inversely related. Frequency (f) equals 1 divided by period (T), and period equals 1 divided by frequency. For example, if frequency is 60 Hz, the period is 1/60 seconds (approximately 0.0167 seconds).

+ How do I convert revolutions per minute (RPM) to hertz?

To convert RPM to hertz, divide the RPM value by 60. For example, 3,600 RPM equals 60 Hz, and 1,800 RPM equals 30 Hz. RPM measures rotational frequency, while hertz measures cycles per second.

⭐ Popular Frequency Conversions

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Full Frequency Conversion Matrix

Complete list of supported frequency units for precision conversions.