When the output of a line extender is 3 dB lower than it should be, what does it indicate?

When the output of a line extender is 3 dB lower than it should be, it indicates that the signal is 3 dB lower than normal. In telecommunications, a decrease of 3 dB in signal strength typically means that the power level of the signal is halved, which is significant in assessing the performance of the system.

In this scenario, if the expected output is not being met and is instead diminished by 3 dB, it signifies that the extender is not functioning as intended. This could be due to a variety of factors such as potential issues in the line, improper installation, or device malfunction. Understanding this change in decibels helps technicians identify faults and troubleshoot to restore the signal to its appropriate level.