Troubleshooting Tips for When You’ve Lost 5dB After Running 200ft of Cable

Maintaining the signal strength of your cable is an important factor when it comes to using any type of cable. Whether you’re using coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, or any other type of cable, signal loss can occur for a variety of reasons. If you’ve run 200ft of cable and lost 5dB of your signal, you’ll need to troubleshoot the issue. Here are some troubleshooting tips to help you get your signal back to its optimal level.

Check the Cable Connectors

Check the Cable Connectors

The first step in troubleshooting a cable connection is to check the cable connectors. Make sure the connectors are securely attached to the cable and that there is no damage to the connectors. If the connectors are loose, or if there is any damage, they may need to be replaced. Additionally, check the connectors to make sure they are compatible with your cable. If you’re using the wrong type of connector, it could cause signal loss.

Look for Obstructions

Look for Obstructions

If the cable connectors appear to be in good condition, then the next step is to look for any obstructions that might be causing the signal loss. If the cable is running through a wall or ceiling, make sure it is not blocked by any other cables, pipes, or other objects. Additionally, if the cable is running outdoors, look for any trees, buildings, or other obstacles that may be blocking the signal.

Check the Cable Length

Check the Cable Length

Another factor to consider when troubleshooting a cable connection is the length of the cable. If the cable is too long, it could cause signal loss due to impedance mismatch. To prevent this, make sure the cable is the correct length for the application. If the cable is too long, consider using a shorter cable or adding an additional amplifier to boost the signal.

Check the Amplifier

Check the Amplifier

If you are using an amplifier to boost the signal, make sure it is working properly. Check the power supply to make sure it is providing the necessary voltage. Additionally, inspect the amplifier to make sure there are no loose connections or other issues that could be causing signal loss.



If you’ve run 200ft of cable and lost 5dB of your signal, there are a few troubleshooting steps you can take to try to restore the signal. Check the cable connectors, look for obstructions, check the cable length, and inspect the amplifier. With these steps, you should be able to determine the cause of the signal loss and take the necessary steps to restore it.