What does the term "insertion loss" refer to in a splitter context?

Insertion loss refers to the reduction in signal strength that occurs when a signal passes through a device, such as a splitter. In the context of splitters, this term specifically relates to the amount of power that is lost when the input signal is divided among multiple output ports. Since splitters are designed to share a single input signal across multiple outputs, they inherently create some loss in signal strength due to the physical components and the inefficiencies of signal distribution.

Understanding that insertion loss is fundamentally about the loss of original signal strength helps in designing and assessing networks. It's important to account for this loss when planning installations, as it can affect overall performance, especially in cases where multiple splitters are utilized, or in longer cable runs. By measuring and minimizing insertion loss, technicians can optimize network efficiency and ensure that the signals reaching their destinations maintain adequate strength for proper performance.