Introduction to Types of Optical Splitters

Optical splitters are mainly classified into two types: Planar Lightwave Circuit (PLC) splitters and Fused Biconic Tapered (FBT) splitters, each designed to divide or combine optical signals in fiber networks.

Overview

An optical splitter is a passive device that divides a single input optical signal into multiple outputs or combines multiple inputs into one. They are widely used in Passive Optical Networks (PON), FTTH deployments, and other fiber optic systems to efficiently distribute signals without requiring power .

Main Types by Design Technology

1. Planar Lightwave Circuit (PLC) Splitters
   • Technology: Uses integrated waveguides on a quartz substrate to split light evenly.
   • Features: Low insertion loss, uniform light distribution, compact size, and stable performance across a wide wavelength range.
   • Applications: Ideal for high-density networks, FTTH, and large-scale deployments with split ratios like 1×32 or 1×64.
   • Variants:
     • Bare Fiber PLC Splitter: No connectors, spliced directly to fibers; suitable for permanent installations.
     • Micro Tube PLC Splitter: Encapsulated in micro steel tubes; easier installation in junction or terminal boxes .
2. Fused Biconic Tapered (FBT) Splitters
   • Technology: Two or more fibers are fused and tapered to allow light coupling between them.
   • Features: Simple manufacturing, cost-effective for low-channel splitters, but performance can vary with wavelength and temperature.
   • Applications: Small networks or short-distance deployments, typically with lower split ratios (1×2, 1×4), .

Types by Split Ratio

• 1×N Splitters: One input fiber split into N outputs (e.g., 1×2, 1×4, 1×8, 1×32). Higher N increases insertion loss.
• 2×N or 4×N Splitters: Multiple inputs split into multiple outputs, used when distributing separate signals like data and video simultaneously .

Types by Packaging

• Bare Fiber: No protective casing; requires careful handling and splicing.
• Mini Module / Micro Tube: Encapsulated for easier installation in indoor or outdoor enclosures.
• Outdoor / Weatherproof: IP65-rated for pole-mounted or underground telecom applications .

Summary

Optical splitters are essential for distributing optical signals efficiently. PLC splitters are preferred for high-density, large-scale networks due to uniformity and stability, while FBT splitters are cost-effective for smaller networks. Splitters can also be categorized by split ratio and packaging, allowing network designers to select the appropriate type based on deployment scale, environment, and performance requirements .