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Insertion Loss
Insertion loss should be as small as possible.
Impedance testing is only rarely called for. Where impedance suddenly changes, e.g. where the wires are connected to a plug or jack or where there is a kink in the cable, a part of the data signal is reflected. This is recorded much better by return loss testing, so impedance testing is of small importance.
Trouble-shooting tips if insertion loss tests fail
Insertion loss problems are typically caused by the cable, not the connecting hardware. If return loss tests also fail, start with the trouble-shooting of return loss. Very often this solves the insertion loss problems as well.
| Typical cause of the problem | This might help (without engagement) |
| Wrong test program selected | Select the right test program |
| AWG size very small | Replace the cable |
| Cable is too long | Cut the cable |
| Cable has become wet | Let the cable dray and test again, replace the cable |
| Maximum tensile load of the cable was exceeded when the cable was pulled in | Replace the cable |
| The cable runs near a powerful heat or cold source | Re-route the cable |
| Category of the cable is too low | Select appropriate test program, replace the cable |
| Cable defective (material defect) | Replace the cable |
| Long patch cords/consolidation point cable | Use shorter patch cords/consolidation point cable |
| AWG size of the patch cords is very small | Replace the patch cords |
| Patch cords defective | Replace the patch cords |
| Cabling components are poorly matched | Select matched cabling components |
| Contacts in patch panel, outlet or plugs are dirty | Clean the contacts |
| Contacts in patch panel, outlet or plugs are worn | Replace patch panel, outlet or plugs |
| Contacts in patch panel, outlet or plugs are corroded | Replace patch panel, outlet or plugs |
| Wires in patch panel, outlet or plugs are poorly terminated | Re-terminate the wires |
| Wires in patch panel, outlet or plugs have become loose | Re-terminate the wires |
| Contacts of the test cord are dirty | Clean the contacts |
| Contacts of the test cord are worn or corroded | Replace the plug/test cord |
Typical causes of insertion loss problems and what might help to solve them.
Contact
Dirk Traeger
