Return loss - reflections on the data link
One high-frequency parameter that often fails during acceptance measurements of data links is the so-called return loss (RL). This article will take a closer look at how the measurement of this parameter can go wrong despite the conscientious selection of high-quality components and careful installation of the cables on the distributors and data sockets. Before we go into the individual errors, however, we must first deal with the theory behind this measured value in order to be able to draw conclusions about possible causes of errors.