Which Layer 1 device strengthens, replicates, or regenerates signals that are weakened during transmission?

• A. Modem
• B. Hub
• C. Repeater
• D. UTP Cables

Answer: (C)

At the physical layer, signals weaken as they travel, so a device that regenerates and re-transmits a clean copy is used to restore signal integrity. A repeater does exactly that: it receives the weakened signal, cleans it up to proper voltage levels, and then transmits a fresh copy onward. This regeneration extends the usable distance of the link and reduces errors from attenuation. A modem handles converting digital data to analog signals for long-distance connections, not simply boosting a local signal. A hub forwards incoming signals to all ports, but it doesn’t restore signal quality in the same way a repeater does, and UTP cables are just the media, not a device that strengthens signals.