The following list describes insertion loss (S21).
- Quantifies the signal power attenuation caused by components (for
example, cables, connectors, and PCB traces) inserted into a transmission path.
- Typically expressed in decibels (dB).
Equation 1.
- Higher absolute values indicate greater signal degradation,
which can reduce data throughput and cause communication
errors.
- Primary contributors: transmission line
resistance, PCB dielectric loss, impedance mismatches, and component absorption or
component scattering.