Usually there is only one cable drop to the residence. This is connected to a cheap splitter. Each split causes a drop in signal strength. Also, some splitters are designed to have one port better than the rest, which share an even greater signal loss.

This 2-way has loss of -3.5 to -4.9dB
http://rsk.imageg.net/graphics/product_images/pRS1C-5354809_rshalt1_dt.jpg

This 8-way has -12.5dB signal loss at each output
http://rsk.imageg.net/graphics/product_images/pRS1C-2834846_rshalt1_dt.jpg

Keep in mind that the 2-way splitter is over 50% signal loss. If you split 2-way, then split again 2-way...that's -3.5db x2 = -7dB.

You'd be losing about 80% of the signal at that point.

For some tuners, that's OK. I've got an 8-way split on a digital signal over coax...it's still enough for dual tuners on a TiVo and a clean signal for 15Mbps connection on an internet router.

Digital receivers are easier to troubleshoot....it's either good or no good. On or off. Analog tuners will show you what little signal is left. Usually faded colors and static, then it goes downhill from there.

If you pay a cable company for service, have them troubleshoot the signal. It may have been one of their installers, or one of the residents who split up the signal.

If you're handy, and it's your house, consider re-running your cables with a home-run to a central splitter. Easier to troubleshoot and control.

If the cable is coming out of a faceplate, try taking off the face plate and pulling the loose cable (gently) out of the wall. You may find extra splitters attached in-line. Or, if you're lucky, it's just a loose or corroded connection that can be repaired.

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