This article will show how to convert voltage measurement units from microvolts (µV) to millivolts (mV). We will cover essential definitions, provide examples, share relevant formulas, and present tables, along with answers to common questions.
Definitions of Volt, Microvolt, and Millivolt
Let’s get started by understanding the key definitions of Microvolt (µV), Millivolt (mV), and Volt (V). Understanding these terms will allow you to perform conversions confidently.
What is Volt (V)?
A volt (V) is the SI (International System of Units) unit of electric potential and voltage. It measures the difference in electric energy between two points in a circuit. One volt means one ampere of current uses one watt of power.[1]
According to SI prefixes[2], which are based on powers of 10, a volt (1 V) is equivalent to one million microvolts, or 106 µV, or 1,000,000 µV.
What is Microvolt (µV)?
A microvolt (µV) is a unit of electrical potential equal to one-millionth (1/1,000,000) of a volt (0.000001 V). It is commonly used in applications requiring high-precision voltage measurements, such as biomedical sensors (e.g., EEG and ECG devices), seismic monitoring, and radio signal detection, where extremely small electrical signals must be accurately captured and analyzed.
Its fine resolution makes it essential for systems sensitive to even the slightest voltage variations.
What is Millivolt (mV)?
A millivolt (mV) is a unit of electrical potential equal to one-thousandth (1/1,000) of a volt (0.001 V). It is widely utilized in applications requiring precise measurement of low voltages, such as sensor outputs (e.g., temperature, biomedical devices) and small-scale electronic circuits where minimal electrical signals must be accurately captured and analyzed. Its compact scale makes it ideal for systems sensitive to higher voltage levels.
µV to mV formula
Let’s take a closer look at the conversion formula so you can carry out these conversions independently, whether using a calculator or doing it manually with pencil and paper.
The micro- prefix in the International System of Units (SI) represents a multiplier of 10-6 (0.000001) while the milli- represents a multiplier of 10-3 (0.001).
So, to convert from microvolts to millivolts, divide the number of microvolts (V(µV)) by 1,000.
V(mV) = V(µV) ÷ 103 = V(µV) ÷ 1,000
Or remember the µV-to-mV conversion factor: 1 µV = 10-3 = 0.001 mV
µV to mV conversion table
The conversion table below provides a handy reference for converting voltage measurement units from microvolts (µV) to millivolts (mV). It covers a range from 0.1 µV to 1,000 µV, allowing for easy and quick conversions between both units of measurement.
| Microvolts (µV) | Millivolt (mV) |
|---|---|
| 0.1 µV | 0.0001 mV |
| 0.5 µV | 0.0005 mV |
| 1 µV | 0.001 mV |
| 2 µV | 0.002 mV |
| 4 µV | 0.004 mV |
| 5 µV | 0.005 mV |
| 10 µV | 0.01 mV |
| 20 µV | 0.02 mV |
| 30 µV | 0.03 mV |
| 40 µV | 0.04 mV |
| 50 µV | 0.05 mV |
| 60 µV | 0.06 mV |
| 70 µV | 0.07 mV |
| 80 µV | 0.08 mV |
| 90 µV | 0.09 mV |
| 100 µV | 0.1 mV |
| 200 µV | 0.2 mV |
| 500 µV | 0.5 mV |
| 800 µV | 0.8 mV |
| 1,000 µV | 1 mV |
Examples
Now, let's look at an example that illustrates the calculations required to convert from microvolts to millivolts (µV to mV).
Example: Measuring Soil Moisture Sensor Voltage in Precision Agriculture
Modern precision agriculture relies on soil moisture sensors to optimize irrigation and improve crop yield. These sensors detect electrical signals that correspond to soil moisture levels, often outputting voltage in microvolts (µV).
A soil moisture sensor records 2,500 µV, but the agricultural monitoring systems require voltage in millivolts (mV) for easier interpretation and automation.
Solution
Since 1 millivolt (mV) = 1,000 microvolts (µV), we can convert 2,500 µV to millivolts by using the following formula:
Therefore, the 2,500 µV output voltage of the sensor is equivalent to 2.5 mV.
To solve the problem with our calculator, follow the steps below:
- Enter the value in microvolts – For this example, enter
2,500into theFrombox. - View the result – The converter instantly calculates and displays the equivalent value in millivolts:
2.5 mV.
FAQs
Is 1 millivolt or 1 microvolt larger?
A millivolt (mV) is a thousand times bigger than a microvolt (µV). Here are the relationships between the units:
1 mV = 103 = 1,000 µV1 µV = 10-3 = 1 ÷ 1,000 = 0.001 mV
How to convert from microvolts to millivolts?
To convert voltage from microvolts (µV) to millivolts (mV), follow these simple steps:
- Write down the voltage value in
microvolts (µV). - Multiply it by the value of the
µV-to-mVconversion factor:10-3or0.001. - The result of the multiplication is the value of the voltage in
millivolts (mV).
Why do I need to convert from microvolts to millivolts?
Converting microvolts (µV) to millivolts (mV) is necessary when working with small electrical signals that need to be expressed in a more practical unit for analysis, calibration, and system integration.
Since 1 mV = 1,000 µV, expressing voltage in millivolts simplifies calculations, improves readability, and ensures compatibility with standard electrical equipment.
You now know how to convert voltage from microvolts (µV) to millivolts (mV). You can quickly use our calculator to convert between the voltage measurement units to save time for future calculations.
