What happens if impulse noise is not managed effectively in a cable network?

When impulse noise is not managed effectively in a cable network, it can lead to significant issues, one of which is laser clipping due to excessively high levels of noise. Impulse noise consists of short bursts of interference, which can disrupt the normal signal transmission and potentially elevate the signal levels above the intended thresholds. In optical networks, where lasers are used to transmit data, excessive noise can cause the signals to exceed the maximum output level of the laser. This results in clipping, where portions of the signal are cut off or distorted, leading to a degradation in signal quality and overall network performance.

The presence of impulse noise without proper management can create unpredictable conditions in the network, resulting in incorrect signal processing and reduced reliability. Hence, understanding the impact of impulse noise and addressing it promptly is crucial to maintaining the integrity of the cable network.