Loss reduction methods are described. A first transmission loss associated with signal transmission through a trace in a first circuit board design is determined. The trace is routed from an integrated circuit disposed on a circuit board to a circuit element disposed on the circuit board. It is determined that the first transmission loss is greater than a threshold transmission loss. The first circuit board design is altered to obtain a second circuit board design. In the second circuit board design, the trace is routed from the integrated circuit to a connector disposed on the circuit board, and the connector is electrically coupled to the circuit element by a cable. A second transmission loss associated with signal transmission between the integrated circuit and the circuit element in the second circuit board design is less than the threshold transmission loss.