Making a 1-to-2 Tail Fiber

A 1-to-2 tail fiber is created by splitting a single fiber optic input into two outputs using a fiber splitter, with factory-terminated connectors on each output and a bare input end for splicing.

Components and Structure

A 1-to-2 tail fiber typically consists of:

• Input fiber: A single optical fiber that carries the signal.
• Splitter: A fused or planar lightwave circuit (PLC) splitter that divides the input signal into two outputs.
• Output fibers: Two fibers, each with a factory-terminated connector (e.g., LC, SC, FC) for reliable connection to equipment.
• Bare fiber end: The input end is left unconnected for fusion splicing to the main fiber line in the field .

Manufacturing Process

1. Fiber Preparation: The input fiber is stripped, cleaned, and cleaved to precise lengths. The output fibers are similarly prepared.
2. Splitter Integration: The input fiber is fused or connected to a 1-to-2 optical splitter. This can be done using a fused biconical taper (FBT) method or a planar lightwave circuit (PLC), depending on the desired performance and wavelength range .
3. Connector Termination: Each output fiber is terminated with a factory-polished connector. The connector end is polished to ensure low insertion loss and high return loss .
4. Splicing Preparation: The input fiber end remains bare for fusion splicing to the main fiber network. This ensures minimal signal loss and a permanent, low-reflection connection .
5. Testing and Quality Control: The assembled tail fiber is tested for insertion loss, return loss, and optical power distribution to ensure it meets specifications.

Applications

1-to-2 tail fibers are commonly used in:

• FTTH (Fiber to the Home) networks to split a single optical line to two subscribers.
• Optical distribution frames (ODF) and terminal boxes for network branching.
• Data centers where a single fiber needs to feed multiple devices efficiently . By combining a high-quality splitter with factory-terminated connectors and a bare input for splicing, a 1-to-2 tail fiber provides reliable, low-loss optical signal distribution suitable for both single-mode and multimode networks.