The loss of connectors on a patchcord or short cable is given by FOTP-171 and the loss of an installed cable plant is measured by OFSTP-14 (MM) or OFSTP-7 (SM. The estimate, called a "loss budget" is calculated using typical component losses for. Fiber loss can be also called fiber optic attenuation or attenuation loss, which measures the amount of light loss between input and output. Losses in the optical fiber can be categorified. When testing fiber optic cabling, determining acceptable loss is crucial. When issues like signal loss, slow speeds, or intermittent connectivity arise, systematic troubleshooting is key.