The antenna itself has a return loss of 15 dB but the 5 dB
insertion loss improves the perceived system return loss by 10 dB (5 dB *2). Even though
this is something system designers take into consideration when setting up the specifications
of the site, it is important to be aware of the effects the insertion loss and also cable return
loss can have on the overall system return loss. A very good system return loss may not
necessarily be a result of an excellent antenna; it could be a faulty cable with too much
insertion loss and an antenna out of specification. This would result in a larger than expected
signal drop and once the signal reaches the antenna, a great portion of the signal is now
reflected since the match is worse than expected. The end result is that the transmitted signal
is lower than needed and the overall coverage area is now affected. In other words, if your
system return loss is too good, it is not always a good thing.