What are the output levels of a balanced 3-way splitter?

The output levels of a balanced 3-way splitter are typically around -7 dB per output. This means that the input signal is divided evenly among the three output ports, with each port delivering a signal that is approximately 7 dB lower than the input signal.

The reason the correct answer indicates a level of -7 dB is based on the principles of power distribution in RF (radio frequency) splitters. In a perfectly balanced splitter designed for RF applications, each output receives an equal share of the input power. As a result, the output level is not only lower than the input level due to the division of power, but it also accounts for the inherent losses in the device, which typically yield an output of around -7 dB.

Thus, the rationale aligns with the expected performance of a balanced 3-way splitter, which effectively manages the distribution of signal while also factoring in typical power losses.