This measurement helps determine the efficiency of a fiber optic system. Several factors contribute to signal attenuation. These include absorption, scattering, and bending losses. Fiber optic signal loss, also known as attenuation, occurs when optical signals weaken as they travel through the fiber. It can be calculated in dB (decibels) in terms of voltage. The function of this is quite opposite to amplification when a signal is. To determine the power budget and power margin needed for fiber-optic connections, you need to understand how signal loss, attenuation, and dispersion affect transmission.