When there's loss in a fiber optic system, the measured power is less than the reference power, resulting in a negative logarithmic value and a negative dB reading on the meter. Despite the meter displaying a negative number, convention dictates referring to the loss as a positive. Well the real problem is that to understand this you need to understand logarithms and that's Algebra II*, way beyond fourth grade addition and subtraction. Whenever tests are performed on fiber optic networks, the results are displayed on a power meter, OLTS or OTDR readout in units of “dB. ” Optical loss is measured in “dB” which is a relative measurement, while absolute optical power is measured in “dBm,” which is dB relative to 1mw optical power. While optical power meters are the primary power measurement instrument, optical loss test sets (OLTSs) and optical time domain reflectometers (OTDRs) also measure power in testing loss. TIA standard test FOTP-95 covers the measurement of optical power. Select the correct wavelength and set your reference. Consistent procedures ensure accuracy. If you have read much on fiber optic testing, you have seen this equation defining dB, which, frankly, almost nobody understands: I am not going to get. Loss is a "relative" power measurement, the difference between the power coupled into a component like a cable or a connector and the power that is transmitted through it. This difference is what we call optical loss and defines the performance of a cable, connector, splice, etc.