What are the signal loss budget factors for distance, connectors, and splices that I really need to take into?

Answer 1

It depends on what size/type/quality of cable you are going to use. Also what type of connectors and how many are in the signal path and are they exposed to weather and chemicals that could degrade them. Finally splices are a large potential loss since they depend on the workmanship and how well the spliced parts are protected from weather and chemicals.

The manufacturers of cables and connectors have those numbers in their catalogs. Avoid splices if possible.