How to check and improve the noise and attenuation of an ADSL line?

The quality of the Internet connection can be affected by different factors that affect the signal such as noise or attenuation. To check the status of an ADSL line, you can check noise and attenuation, which are one of the many causes that typically affect the network .

Attenuation on an ADSL line

The attenuation is known as the decrease in signal strength due to distance from telephone line . The more distance there is between the control panel and the network access point (modem), the weaker the signal strength. Another factor that can cause attenuation is that the cable is attached to one or more jumpers, which is considered a poor installation.

In general, each type of network a distance restrictions to avoid attenuation . If the signal becomes too weak, the receiving equipment will not receive the information well or it will be delivered incomplete.

Fiber optic connections have an attenuation level of 1 dB for every kilometer traveled. While the connections with UTP cable in copper used in ADSL connections have a loss of 10 dB for every kilometer .

To avoid attenuation, repeaters or amplifiers are often used to increase signal strength, as the cable is usually limited to a specific distance.

How to query and improve mitigation

The attenuation is expressed in logarithmic units such as the decibel (dB) , because it is an easier measurement for calculations. Its value is exponential and the lower its value, the lower the attenuation level the connection has.

One way to identify if there are any mitigation issues on the network is to test endpoint . It can also be checked from the router configuration, usually it has a tool included to find out the level of attenuation that exists.

Dimming faults usually cannot be controlled if the fault is outside our home. In all cases, the condition of the network cables found inside the house may be checked . If they have suffered deterioration or physical damage, it is best to replace it.

ADSL installations must be carried out with a microfilter that separates voice and data signals . In addition, ADSL connections should not be made over a PCR line as this interferes with the transmission of information.

Noise on an ADSL line

The term noise in the field of telecommunications is associated with signal interference from electrical devices . The level of signal interference will depend on the degree of interference caused by the device.

Unlike attenuation , noise does not interfere with correct data transmission as long as that the signal strength is greater than the noise.

How to check and improve noise

The noise level is measured in SNR or decibels, although the SNR term is the most used in ADSL devices . To identify the noise level in the connection, it is necessary to access the router configuration with your username and password.

In the settings page, you need to look for the option SNR Margin or something similar, it may vary depending on the router. Here the noise level that exists in the connection will be displayed, which is usually a value.

If the value is less than 6 dB, the noise is considerable . If the value obtained is between 7 dB and 10 dB, there is a lot of noise present in the connection. The optimum values ​​are between 11 dB and 20 dB.

To improve the connection, the installation time of cables and devices should be evaluated. Just like the condition of the cables, because if they present moisture, they may generate excessive noise .

Make installations with good quality cables and avoiding bridges is extremely important. Check the condition of the microfilter and connecting devices such as the router or modem.