Optical Splitter Fiber, also referred to as Fiber optic splitter, fiber splitter or beam splitter, is an integrated waveguide optical power distribution device that can split an incident light beam into two or more light beams, and vice versa.
Optical Splitter Fiber is one of the most important fiber optic components in passive fiber network even in outside plants cablings.When you source an Optical Splitter Fiber, You should have basic understanding about it. Here below you can have grasp the main points for Optical Splitter Fiber.
What is Optical Splitter Fiber?
An Optical Splitter Fiber, integral in fiber optic networks, is a device that divides the light signal from a single optical fiber into multiple fibers, distributing the signal to different destinations. This device is crucial in passive optical networks (PONs), such as those used for telecommunications and cable TV, allowing a single fiber optic connection to serve multiple premises.
How does a fiber optic splitter work?
A fiber optic splitter works by taking a single optical input and dividing it into multiple outputs, without necessitating an external power source.
In FBT splitters, the optical fibers are fused together, and the light is split between these fibers based on the physical properties of the fibers themselves.
In PLC splitters, the optical signal is divided using a photolithographic technique to create a series of waveguides that precisely direct the signals to multiple outputs. This process allows for a consistent and predictable distribution of optical signals.
Types of Optical Splitter Fiber
In todays fiber networks, There are mainly 2 types of Optical Splitter Fiber in the market, namely FBT splitter and PLC splitter.
Fused Biconical Taper (FBT) Splitter
This type of splitter is made by twisting and heating two or more fibers together, and then pulling them to form a biconical shape. The ratio of the split can be adjusted by changing the pull length and angle.
Planar Lightwave Circuit (PLC) Splitter
PLC splitters use a micro-optical integration technology to distribute light from a single fiber to multiple fibers. They are manufactured using silica optical waveguide technology to create a precise splitting ratio.
FBT Splitter vs PLC Splitter
| Feature | FBT Splitter | PLC Splitter |
|---|---|---|
| Technology | Twisting and heating fibers | Silica optical waveguide |
| Splitting Ratio | Adjustable | Fixed |
| Size | Generally larger | Compact |
| Uniformity | Less uniform split | Highly uniform split |
| Operating Wavelength | 850nm, 1310nm, 1490nm and 1550nm | 1260nm-1650nm (full wavelength) |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Max Split | Up to 1×4 typically, though higher splits are less efficient | Up to 1×64 or more |
| Durability | Sensitive to environmental conditions | More stable and reliable |
How to choose the right Optical Splitter Fiber for your project?
- Splitting Needs: Consider whether you need a precise split ratio. PLC splitters offer more uniformity and can support more outputs.
- Budget: FBT splitters are generally more cost-effective, especially for smaller, less complex projects.
- Operating Environment: If the splitter will be exposed to varying temperatures or harsh conditions, a PLC splitter’s stability might be advantageous.
- Wavelength Requirements: For systems that require a wide range of wavelengths, PLC splitters are more suitable due to their broader operating wavelength range.
What is the Optical Splitter Fiber Loss you need to know?
Optical loss refers to the reduction in power of the light signal as it splits and travels through the fiber. It’s measured in decibels (dB). Both FBT and PLC splitters introduce some level of insertion loss, with the specific amount depending on the split ratio, type of splitter, and quality of the manufacturing. Understanding the loss your network can tolerate is crucial in selecting the right splitter. to see the fiber splitter loss chart you will know the standard datasheet for the Insertion loss and return loss.
What is the application of Optical Splitter Fiber?
Most of time, Optical Fiber Splitters are used in wall mount fiber distribution box, fiber termination box from user end, or fiber patch panel at data center, or splitter type fiber enclosures, They should be well protected inside the enclosures. You can wholesale Optical Fiber Splitters with connectors to connect fiber pigtails directly, or Optical Fiber Splitters without connectors to splice with pigtails or fiber cables directly.
Optical splitters are used in various applications including:
- Fiber to the Home (FTTH) networks
- Cable TV (CATV) systems
- Local Area Networks (LANs)
- Telecommunications
- Data processing networks
Wholesale Optical Fiber Splitters from Bativ
Optical Fiber Splitter Supplier
As a professional Optical Fiber Splitter supplier, You can customize or wholesale Optical Fiber Splitters with any length and connectors to better suitable to your projects.
choosing our fiber optic splitters to increase the efficient use of optical infrastructure is key to developing a network architecture that will last well into the future. contact us today for free sample.