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.
Bwinners
provides the whole series of 1xN and 2xN splitter products.
1x2, 1x4,
1x8, 1x16, 1x32, 1x64 and 2x4, 2x8, 2x16, 2x32 configurations available.
All
products meet GR-1209-CORE and GR-1221-CORE requirements.
Low
insertion loss and low PDL.
Single
mode and multimode available.
High
Reliability and Stability
Wide
wavelength range.
Parameters | 1×2 | 1×4 | 1×8 | 1×16 | 1×32 | 1×64 |
Operating Wavelength (nm) | 1260~1650 | |||||
Fiber Type | G657A or customer specified | |||||
Insertion Loss (dB)(P/S Grade) | 3.8/4.0 | 7.1/7.3 | 10.2/10.5 | 13.5/13.7 | 16.5/16.9 | 20.5/21.0 |
Loss Uniformity (dB) | 0.4 | 0.6 | 0.8 | 1.2 | 1.5 | 2 |
Return Loss (dB) | 55 | 55 | 55 | 55 | 55 | 55 |
Polarization Dependent Loss (dB) |
0.2 | 0.2 | 0.2 | 0.25 | 0.3 | 0.35 |
Directivity (dB) | 55 | 55 | 55 | 55 | 55 | 55 |
Wavelength Dependent Loss(dB) | 0.3 | 0.3 | 0.3 | 0.5 | 0.5 | 0.5 |
Temperature Stability(-40~85°C)(dB) | 0.4 | 0.4 | 0.4 | 0.5 | 0.5 | 0.5 |
Operating Temperature (°C) | -40~85 | |||||
Storage Temperature (°C) | -40~85 | |||||
Device Dimension (mm) (L×W×H) | 40×4×4 | 40×4×4 | 40×4×4 | 50×4×4 | 50×7×4 | 60×12×4 |
Module Dimension (mm) (L×W×H) | 100×80×10 | 100×80×10 | 100×80×10 | 120×80×18 | 140×115×18 | 140×115×18 |
MiniModule Dimension (mm) (L×W×H) | 60×7×4 | 60×7×4 | 60×7×4 | 60×12×4 | 80×20×6 | 100x40x6 |
Optical In PLC Splitter
Fiber Optic PLC Splitter
Optical PLC Splitter
Fiber Optic PLC Splitter
Fiber Optic PLC Splitter
PLC PLC Splitter
Splitter Fiber PLC Optic
Fiber Optic PLC Splitter
Fiber PLC Splitter
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 |
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.
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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.