What does Bit Error Ratio (BER) quantify?

Bit Error Ratio (BER) quantifies the number of bits received inaccurately compared to the total number of bits sent during a transmission. It is a crucial metric in digital communications, as it provides insights into the integrity of the transmitted data. A lower BER indicates a more reliable communication channel, while a higher BER signifies more errors occurring during transmission, which could stem from various factors like noise, interference, or distortion.

By calculating the BER, engineers and technicians can assess the performance of a communication system and make necessary adjustments to improve data integrity. This measurement is essential for ensuring that the data received matches the data that was sent, which is critical for effective communication.