Fiber Optic PLC Splitter

Fiber Optic PLC Splitter – The Ultimate FAQ Guide

Let’s face it! Almost all fiber optical network topologies you use these days have a fiber optic splitter. So, what’s the role of this device, and how do you use it?

In this article, we give you the most comprehensive guide to everything you should know about fiber optic splitter.

Whether you want to know how it works, the various types, applications, signal loss, choosing the right splitter, how to troubleshoot it, the production process, and other vital questions about it, this guide gives you everything.

Without further ado, let’s dive into all the frequently asked questions about it right away:

1.What Is Fiber Optic PLC Splitter?

Figure 1. Fiber Optic PLC Splitter?
Bwinners fiber optic splitter is an optical power distribution device that splits an incident light beam into two or even more light beams or vice versa. It has several input and output ends that help it perform its function.

You can also refer to a fiber optic splitter as a beam splitter or optical splitter. It is a device that plays a very vital role in passive fiber optical networks, including but not limited to FTTH, BPON, EPON, FTTx, EPON, and GPON.

You need a fiber optic splitter whenever you need to divide light transmission in a network. However, it not only does the work, but it is also highly convenient, especially in big network interconnections.

2.What Are the Different Types of Fiber Optic PLC Splitters?

Different companies or manufacturers produce their fiber optic splitters differently. However, there are two most common types that most of them manufacture. These are:

Fused Biconical Taper (FBT) Fiber Optic Splitter
The FBT splitter works in a way that is almost similar to that of a one-to-one fusion splice, especially when it comes to fusion with the heat source. So, in this splitter, fibers form a double cone under the heat zone. They, however, need stretching to do so.

When it comes to splitting ratio, the FBT splitter has an adjustable splitting ratio, but the losses are a bit sensitive to the wavelengths. You should remember that you ought to choose your device based on its wavelengths.

You should also note another vital thing about this splitter. Its costs are usually a little bit lower than that of the other type. Why is that the case? It’s because it makes use of materials that manufacturers make use of commonly.

Planar Lightwave Circuit (PLC) Fiber Optic Splitter

Figure 2. Planar Lightwave Circuit (PLC) Fiber Optic Splitter
This type of fiber optic splitter uses a chip to divide incoming fiber optic signals into multiple outputs. On average, a single splitter chip can achieve up to 64 ends. What does this imply? It means that a PLC fiber optic splitter is used mainly in large applications.

One thing worth noting about the PLC splitter is that its size is compact, so it is pretty simple to install it. You can, therefore, use it, especially when you want to save space. It doesn’t, however, limit you to small spaces. You can use it anywhere provided it meets your needs.

Apart from size, you also should note that PLC splitter losses are not usually sensitive to wavelengths. This justifies the need for a multiple-wavelength transmission. You should already be aware that this is not necessarily the case with other types of the splitter.

3.What Is Rack Mounted PLC Splitter?

Figure 3. Rack Mounted PLC Splitter

Bwinners Rack-mounted fiber optic PLC splitter is a type that is a little bit versatile. That is to say that you can use it for both indoor, as well as outdoor applications.

For instance, if you have a data communication center, FTTx project, or CATV whether it’s installed indoors or outdoors, the Rack-mounted PLC splitter will do the job well.

When it comes to how it works, this splitter uses a 19-inch rack unit. The rack is a standard one for housing or containing the PLC splitter inside it.

4.What is a GPON Splitter?

Figure 4. GPON Splitter

A Gigabyte Passive Optical (GPON) splitter is simply a type of splitter that is used in GPON networks. It’s the uniqueness of such networks that necessitate the use of specific splitters (the GPON type).

In a nutshell, a GPON network can transmit Time Division Multiplexing (TDM), Ethernet, and Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM) traffic. To perform these functions, the network should have three important components.

It should always consist of a fiber optic splitter, an Optical Network Unit (ONU), and Optical Line Terminals (OLT).

Therefore, a GPON splitter serves the purpose of dividing signal in a GPON network, when it is needed. While the division might not always be necessary, a fiber optic splitter is an important component that must always be there for a GPON network to be complete.

5.What Is Insertion ABS Box Module PLC Optical Splitter?

Figure 5. What Is Insertion ABS Box Module PLC Optical Splitter?

Bwinners Insertion ABS Box Module is a module with a compact design or is a little bit small when you compare it with similar types. Its use is mainly in the distribution of fiber optic signals.

If you want to save space and time as well, then this might be a type of splitter that you should consider. However, note that the whole of its design is smaller than that of other types, it still does work perfectly.

You should, therefore, consider it if you want to offer reliable protection to your fiber optic splitter without necessarily using too much space.

6.What Is Cassette PLC Splitter?

Figure 6. What Is Cassette PLC Splitter?

Sometimes you have to install a fiber network system in an environment that may be a bit unique. In such instances, you need a optical splitter that can help adapt the system to the specific environment.

Bwinners cassette PLC splitter does that job. It has an ABS box made of plastic that not only protects the splitter, but it adapts it to different installation requirements and environments as well.

When it comes to modules, the cassette PLC splitter can be 1x4, 1x8, 1x16, 1x32, 1x64, 2x4, 2x8, 2x16, and 2x32. If you have used different types of splitters, you know that with these modules, this splitter is a perfect one for outdoor applications.

To make it easy for you to understand the use of this splitter, here is a simple explanation. Bwinners cassette PLC splitter is a good type recommendable for your use if you want an outdoor fiber optic distribution box for your FTTX, FTTX, GOPN, and PON applications.

7.What Is Blockless Mini Fiber PLC Splitter?

Figure 7.What Is Blockless Mini Fiber PLC Splitter?

You ought to use a blockless mini fiber PLC splitter if you want to split one input fiber into several output fibers. It performs this function because it has an even split ratio that is not usually a feature of some other splitters.

To meet the different needs of users, this PLC splitter comes in a wide variety of configurations that include 1x4, 1x8, 1x16, 1x32, 1x64, and 2x4, 2x8, 2x16, and 2x32. Most manufactures sell all these hence they are most readily available.

Other features you should note about blockless mini fiber PLC splitter include back reflection, high uniformity, and a low insertion signal loss.

8.What Is Bare Fiber PLC Splitter?

Figure 8.What Is Bare Fiber PLC Splitter?

If you are looking for a fiber opitc splitter that works best for FTTX/FTTH, GPON, EPON, CATV, or LAN network application, then this is something you might have to consider.

Why? It is because many users describe it as the best alternative.

But why is regarded as the best alternative for such network applications?

Well, it has some great features. They include excellent uniformity, low polarized fiber optic dependent loss, low back reflection, and high return loss.

These features apply to a wide range of installations, hence explaining the versatility of this splitter.

You should also know as a potential user of this finer PLC splitter that you can splice it with other fibers. More specifically, you can splice it with fibers in the wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) system, pigtail cassette, and test instrument systems.

In all these applications, the bare fiber PLC splitter not only completes the system, but also saves you space.

9.What Is a Passive Optical PLC Splitter?

Passive optical splitters are the types you see almost daily. They usually have one input and multiple outputs. Also, they are no too technical when it comes to their connection or installation.

You only hook these splitters, and they do their work. They do not require power for them to run, and you do not have to keep touching them. However, you should beware that if the signal entering them is weak, then the outputs might not do their work.

In other words, passive optical splitters have components that are entirely “passive.” They do not require power, climate control, and even maintenance, unlike different types of splitters. Once you install them, they work continuously, not until you interfere with them.

Reasons to Use Passive Optical Splitters in Your Network System
High-Speed Connectivity
First, passive optical splitters provide high-speed fiber connectivity. You can, therefore, use them in your network without having to worry about affecting communication. You will still enjoy high-quality communication with passive splitters.

Flexibility
Another reason to use them is that passive splitters make your network highly flexible. What this means is that you can expand them anytime, specifically, using more fibers or up ports depending on your needs.

Fewer Disruptions
Lastly, you should also note that when you use passive optical splitters, it becomes easy for you to factor in redundancy effectively. This also serves to increase fault tolerance implying fewer disruptions to your fiber network.

10.What Are the Applications of Fiber Optic PLC Splitter?

Figure 9.What Are the Applications of Fiber Optic Splitter?

The applications of a fiber optic splitter are mainly two.

The first one is the FTTx/PON application to reduce too much physical fiber usage. What this does is to reduce the number of fibers. This is the case since just a single fiber can split into many hence support many end users

Another application of fiber optic splitter is in the local area network, long-haul network, and cable TV ATM maintenance. In such a scenario, the splitter is connected to the fiber-optic network monitoring system.

You can use a fiber optic splitter for maintenance purposes either when troubleshooting or by connecting it to the system during your usual maintenance or even when assessing performance. In most cases, this application is manual, but you have to be a little bit careful to avoid any issues.

11.How Does a Fiber Optic PLC Splitter Work?

Figure 10.How Does a Fiber Optic Splitter Work?

Bwinners fiber optic splitter works in a simple manner. Here is an illustration. When there is light transmission through a single-mode fiber, the entire light does not concentrate on the core of the fiber. Instead, some amount of it, although small spreads to the fiber cladding.

What does this mean? Well, if there are two or more fibers that are close to each other, the light being transmitted through one fiber will, at some point, enter into another fiber through reallocation.

Bwinners fiber optic splitter, therefore, does the reallocation. It can be between two fibers or even many fibers depending on the type of fiber cable network.

12.Can I Split Fiber Optic Cables?

Yes, you can split one fiber cable to support many end-users rather than just one. For your information, splitting helps reduce the stress or overload on one cable.

A splitter, therefore, helps increase the effectiveness of fiber optic networks.

13.What is a TV PLC Splitter Cable Used for?

Figure 11. TV Splitter Cable

A TV splitter cable provides multiple outlets for a single signal. To perform this function, a TV splitter cable has one input port that takes in the signal then delegates it to other outlet ports for onward transmission to other devices.

14.What is the best PLC Splitter for Internet and Cable TV?

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where your business gets internet access and a TV signal from the same source? In such instances, you need to get a splitter that can do both jobs perfectly in the same line.

If you use a single line, the best splitter that will work well for your business, the organization, even if it’s a home, is a coaxial fiber optic splitter.

With the splitter, you can easily connect your internet router with one or even more boxes to the internet without compromising the performance of cable TV.

Other than using a coaxial splitter, there is also another alternative that you can consider if it can serve you well. You can also use wireless digital splitter alternatives. That is, however, possible only if you have a digital TV. It helps reduce the need to have many wires or connections in your network system.

15.What is the Use of a PLC Splitter in Networking?

Figure 12. What is the Use of a Splitter in Networking?

In networking, a splitter helps in distributing the signal to two or more devices within the fiber optic network.

You can also install a splitter in a network if you want to activate as many outlets as possible, as is the case when making multiple connections.

16.What Does PLC Splitter Loss Mean?

Splitter loss simply means the loss of the fiber optic signal as a result of the split ratio. It also implies the loss of signal that occurs during manufacturing process, especially when making the input & output connectors of the splitter.

However, as a user, the loss you should beware of is the signal loss that arises when you connect the splitter into your cable plant. The loss also differs depending on splitter ratios, so note this when using a splitter.

17.What is Typical Loss for Various Fiber Optic PLC Splitter Ratios?

You ought to know that one of the essential parameters that define a good optic splitter is its level of insertion loss.

Typically, loss testing helps in finding out the signal loss that results from inserting a component such as a splice or a connector to a fiber optical network.

A smaller loss is, therefore, desirable if you want to keep your system in good working condition or at top performance.

With that said, here are typical losses for various splitters:
Table 1Typical Loss for Various Fiber Optic Splitter Ratios

splitter Ratio	Typical Loss (dB)
1:2	4
1:4	7
1:8	11
1:16	15
1:32	19

Please, note that these losses can be higher or less depending on a couple of factors, especially those affecting the connection/installation of your system. Our table is, therefore, just typical losses that you should beware of, so you handle your system correctly.

18.What is the Typical dB Loss for a 3 Way PLC Splitter?

The typical loss of a 3-way splitter is simply the amount of loss that occurs each time when the signal is divided multiplied by the number of divisions.

A 3-way splitter takes the signal then divided it into three outputs. In the process, it losses a typical -3.5dB in every split. However, the total loss is not the loss in every split multiplied by three. It doesn’t work that way. Instead, here is an illustration of how the loss occurs for a 3-way splitter:

Figure 6 3-Way Splitter Loss
From the illustration, the loss is, therefore, -3.5 dB +-7 dB +-7 dB = -17.5dB loss. That is the general procedure or method you should use when calculating splitter loss.

19.How Much Signal is Lost with a PLC Splitter?

The amount of signal loss with a splitter depends on the number of output ports that the splitter has. Note that every port losses signal. So, a splitter with two ports losses on the two ports, similarly with one with three, four, and more ports.

On average, the loss from a single port is -3.5dB, so in short, the higher the number of ports, the higher the loss of signal from a splitter.

You should, however, remember that it is not the number of ports alone that determines signal loss in fiber optic network systems. The type of cables you use also affects the amount of signal that your system losses.

For cables, size determines the amount of loss. Small fiber optic cables lose more compared to long cables. It is, therefore, advisable that you consider loss cables if you want to minimize the loss of signal in your fiber network system.

Generally, if your objective is to reduce signal loss, you should consider using splitters with a few ports on the output side, and also larger or long fiber optic cable runs in your application or network.

20.Can I Split a Fiber Optical Audio Signal?

Yes, it is possible to split a fiber optical audio signal. To do so, you need to get an appropriate adaptor that splits audio signals.

A good one is a digital optical audio signal splitter. With such an adaptor, you can connect a single source of audio signal like the one of a gaming console then split it into two devices, for instance, into an AC receiver, and a TV receiver as well.

21.How Are Fiber Optic Signals Split?

You can split fiber optic signals using different methods depending on what you intend to achieve after the splitting process.

However, irrespective of your objective, here are the steps that you must take to achieve your results:

Connect one end of your fiber optic cable to the “in” port that you can access through the wall

Connect the other end to the single end of your fiber optic splitter

Attach the remaining cables to the two ports on the other terminal of your fiber optic splitter

If you have several cables, you just need to repeat the process until you complete all your connections. There might be a few different things, but that is the general way of splitting fiber optic signals.

22.How Do I Choose the Right Fiber Optic PLC Splitter?

Choosing the right splitter is not a complex job. However, you can only get the best fiber optic splitters if you are careful and have the right information during the selection process. Most importantly, you have to check a couple of factors that indicate good performance. They include:

Splitting Ratio
The fiber optic splitting ratio refers to the output power of the splitter’s output port. Why is this feature important? It affects light transmission. So, when choosing a fiber optic splitter, please pay attention to this ratio. As an advice, you should go for a splitter that has an output power.

Insertion Loss
Insertion loss is a performance indicator that shows the dB of each of the output concerning input optical loss. Now, the rule of thumb here is that you should go for a fiber optic splitter with a smaller insertion loss since it indicates better performance.

Isolation
Isolation shows the transmission process of signal from a splitter’s light path to the other fiber optical paths in a network system. As a precaution, you should go for a fiber optic splitter whose isolation indicates ease of connectivity and seamless transmission along the light paths.

Return Loss
You will most often find this feature is referred to as reflection loss. Whichever one you come across, just note that they stand for the same thing. So, what does it mean? Well, it refers to the power loss of a fiber optic signal that results from the reflection of signal because of defects/discontinuities during the transmission process.

Failure Rate
Fiber optic splitters can also fail for a couple of reasons. While in most cases the cause of failure is as a result of external factors or interference, some may fail due to their poor quality. You should, therefore, go for splitters from reputable manufacturers if you want a product that will last long.

23.What is the Application of Fiber Optic PLC Splitter in PON Networks?

Figure 13. What is the Application of Fiber Optic Splitter in PON Networks?

In a passive optical network (PON), a fiber optic splitter enables the distribution of the signal into two or more fibers.

The different optical fibers that share the optical signal have distinct configurations. They can either be 1 x N or M x N, as is the case with most networks.

Fiber optic splitters, therefore, allow a single passive optical network interface to serve or be shared among multiple subscribers.

24.Does a TV PLC Splitter Weaken the Signal?

Yes, a TV splitter can weaken the signal. It happens since every time you split your TV distribution signal, there is an insertion loss. It is this loss that causes the weakening of your TV signal.

So what should you do to stop having problems with a weak signal? It’s simple, but you need to be a little bit careful.

Each time you use a splitter and you notice that the signal gets weak, the best remedy is to install an antenna preamplifier. Alternatively, you can also install a distribution amplifier, and the problem won’t be great.

However, you should also know that while an amplifier will help in solving the problem of a weak signal it too has its issues. If it is a faulty amplifier, the chances are that your TV signal will drop out more often.

You are more likely to experience issues of TV signal being on and then suddenly off. To avoid that, make use that you use a good amplifier that is sound and in good working condition. You should also avoid making connections and disconnections often as they also contribute to the problem.

Install your system properly, and once it’s okay, avoid making unnecessary adjustments. That’s is the secret to always remember.

25.How Do I Know That a Fiber Optic PLC Splitter is Malfunctioning?

Depending on your application, there are a couple of ways to detect a malfunctioning fiber optic splitter. In some instances, however, it can be a little bit hard to detect a problem unless you do a test.

Other than that, here are common signs of issues with your splitter:

Low or No Input Power
If the input power is low and there is no power completely, that is a clear indication that your fiber optic splitter has issues. You should, therefore, begin the process of troubleshooting it immediately.

One Optical Network Terminal (ONT) is Offline
If you notice that one ONT is not working, that is a sight of a malfunctioning splitter. In most cases, it means that it is not getting the required amount of power to function. You should, therefore, fix it before the problem spreads to all terminals.

Several Passive Optical Networks in Alarm
If you use a centralized architecture to install your splitter such that it is located only in one place in the Open Settlement Protocol (OSP), then a test can identify any fault. You need to use an Optical Time-Domain Reflectometer (OTDR) to find faults.

If you notice that there are several PONs in alarm, then that is an indication of a faulty fiber optic splitter. It is most likely that the output ports of the splitter. You might thus have to do a replacement.

Everything Is Out of Service
At the worst level, you will likely experience a complete outage of your network system with everything not working. In most cases, that happens when the whole splitter system is damaged, and you, therefore, have to get a new one in place.

While there might be other indicators that your splitter is not in good working condition, the above are the most common ones. Watch out, and if possible, try your best to keep your system in good working condition to avoid unnecessary interruptions.

26.How Do You Troubleshoot Fiber Optic PLC Splitters?

In most cases, issues that often arise with fiber optic splitters are those that result from how you do the installation. Other than that, there might also be other problems that can arise from everyday activities.

For instance, any mistake made, especially during the installation such that the process is faulty, several failures could arise later. They include issues to do with improper fiber management, splice problems, connector damage, micro bends, and others.

Troubleshooting your fiber optic splitters and the entire network system, therefore, requires that you re-install it. It might take time, but that is the best way to fix issues since you will discover all faults and fix them.

You should also note that splitter problems tend to be intrinsic, so the best approach would be to seek expert advice. If you can contact the manufacturer, you will get useful tips and be able to solve problems hassle-free.

27.What is the Production Process of Fiber Optic PLC Splitters?

Figure 14. What is the Production Process of Fiber Optic Splitters?

As already explained in this article, there are two major types of fiber optic splitters. So, each of these types has its production process.

While there are different industry standards and targets for different manufacturers, there are some common things in all processes. So, here are the production processes of each of these two types:

PLC Splitter
The production process of the PLC splitter uses the planar waveguide technology. It also makes use of a branching device that has a semiconductor. The device completes the branching function on the chip.

For this splitter, the process aims to create good input and output terminals at both ends. Most importantly, it ensures that the end product up to 1x32 splitter to meet different application needs.

You should also note that through this method, the end product is a compact and small size splitter that you can install even to a junction box that already exists in your system. You don’t need any special design.

FBT Splitter
ITo produce this splitter, a fused bi-conical production technique is used where one or even two fibers are tied together and then put in a cone machine to melt. During the process, one ought to do real-time monitoring to make sure that the process achieves the desired splitting ratio.

As part of the process, one end of the fiber is reserved as the input terminal, while the other is converted into multiple outputs. Also, the tapering process pulls only 1x4 devices or more, but often with 1x2 put together.

When it comes to raw materials, this process requires fiber optics, stainless steel pipe, small plastic, and heat shrink tubing. With these and, of course, the necessary machinery, there is almost everything that is required to make FBT splitters. Why about the materials? Well compared to the other process for the PLC splitter the FBT process is less costly.

As a note, you should always remember that different manufacturers also have their ways of making their products unique. Most of them try their best to make their products in line with the prevailing market requirements.

28.What are the Hidden Costs of Low-Cost Fiber Optic PLC Splitters?

You might be tempted at some point to go for low-cost fiber splitters. Also, some procurement officers working for you might attempt to save costs. So what’s the effect of such a move? It’s not complicated.

Low-cost fiber optic splitters are often low-quality, meaning that the performance might not be up to the required standards. At worst, you also risk experiencing system failure depending on many other factors.

So, the hidden costs of low-cost fiber optic splitters are setbacks including:

Unreliability
The reliability of low-cost fiber optic splitters is not predictable. You will most likely experience system failures anytime. The most probable times are when there is high-temperature and even high humidity. Also, anything that alters the usual operating conditions increases the unreliability of low-cost or low-quality splitters.

High Insertion Loss
You may not notice this quickly, but the fact remains that low-cost fiber optic splitters often lose high amounts of fiber optic signals compared to those that are of better quality and hence a little bit expensive.

Poor Performance
Poor performance is a high cost that you should seek to avoid. If your fiber optic network system is for communication, it means you’ll experience poor communication, and that has severe implications.

In general, the implication of getting low-cost fiber optic splitters is that you will get a low-quality product that may not serve its purpose well. It is, therefore, not recommendable that you get such splitters, especially if you want excellent performance in your network.

29.What is the difference between a TV PLC Splitter and Coupler?

For most people, a TV splitter and a coupler serve the same purpose. However, that does not mean that they are the same. There are a few differences worth noting, so you do not make mistakes in your network system.

Their differences can be looked at from three perspectives. These are:

Differences in Design
A splitter usually has two types of ports, that is an input put and the output ports, which can be two or more depending on the type. On the other hand, a coupler has three types of ports that is, an input port, an output port, and also an isolation port. The extra port (isolation) helps in preventing unnecessary signal loss.

Differences in Signal Loss
Based on the first difference, you can already predict that there is a great difference between splitters and couplers when it comes to signal loss.

Indeed, a coupler outperforms a splitter when it comes to signal loss prevention. So, if you want to minimize signal loss, you should consider using a coupler.

Difference in Function
A fiber optic splitter divides or splits the signal from the source into two for distribution into two devices rather than just a single device.

On the other hand, a couple also does the same function of dividing signal, but it does not stop there. It can also join two sources of a signal into one.

Now that you know the differences, the next time you hit the market, looking for a product to split the signal in your network system, bear in mind these differences, so you go for one that will do a perfect job for you.

30.What Can Damage Fiber Optic PLC Splitters?

You should beware that no matter how good you do the installation, keep it working or maintain, there are still some factors that can cause damage. More precisely, there are problems that you cannot completely stop from causing damage.

Based on many years of experience and customer feedback, some factors are beyond your control. These are the factors that can damage your fiber optic splitters. They include but not limited to:

Malicious Attacks
Look, you already know that this work is full of people with some kind of weird behavior. Some enjoy destroying other people’s properties, and they think it is fun to do so. Others do it also because they want to get some parts for sale.

You won’t be surprised to wake up one morning only to realize that someone has tampered with your network system. It has happened in many parts of the world, and it can happen to you too. So, maybe you can put some preventive measures to avoid such malicious attacks.

Animal Chews
Rodents, including rabbits, rats, and squirrels, can chew almost everything they come across as they do their thing. Now, the weirdest thing you should beware of is that squirrels tend to destroy fiber cables.

You should, therefore, beware of this, especially if your fiber cable network system is underground. If they come across yours, your system will be destroyed, including your fiber optic splitters.

Natural Disasters
While networks have a protection system, some disasters can destroy them. Such disasters include extreme weather conditions such as strong winds, catastrophic earthquakes, and snow, among others.

If any disaster occurs and your fiber network system is damaged, it means most of its components, including fiber optic splitters, will be destroyed. If possible, find out if there have been instances of disasters before setting up your network system.

In a nutshell, anything that has the potential to affect your fiber network system has the potential to destroy its parts, including splitters. The three we’ve highlighted are the major ones. There might be others like vehicle damage and mishandling but what we’ve reviewed are the major damage-causing factors.