Splitters and Panels


A fibre optic splitter is an optical power distribution device that can split a light beam into two or more light beams, containing multiple input and output ends. Optical splitters play an essential role in passive optical networks (E.g. EPON, GPON, BPON, FTTX, FTTH) by allowing a single PON interface to be shared among many subscribers. 

The most common type of fibre-optic splitter evenly splits the output with half of the signal going to one leg of the output and half going to the other. There are splitters that use a different split ratio, putting a larger part of the signal to one side of the splitter than the other side. Splitters are identified with a number that represents the signal division, such as 50/50 if the split is even, or 80/20. 

Some types of fibre-optic splitter can work in either direction. if it is installed in one way, it acts as a splitter and divides the incoming signal into two parts, sending out two separate outputs. If it is reverse installed, it acts as a coupler, taking two incoming signals and combine them into a single output. Not every fibre-optic splitter can be used this way. 
 

How to Choose the Right Fibre Optic Splitter? 


There are certain performance indicators that will affect the fibre optic splitter. 
 
  • Insertion loss: This refers to the dB of each output relative to the input optical loss. Typically, the splitter performs better the smaller the insertion loss value. 
  • Return loss: Or reflection loss, is the power loss of an optical signal that is returned or reflected due to discontinuities in the fibre or transmission line. Typically, the larger the return loss, the better. 
  • Splitting ratio: This is defined as the output power of the splitter output port in the system and is related to the wavelength of the light transmitted. 
  • Isolation: This indicates a light path optical splitter to other optical paths of the optical signal isolation. 


Fibre Optic Splitter Panels 


Fibre optic splitter panels, provide an elegant 19” solution for presenting splitter inputs and outputs for cross connection.  

CMW offer a full UK design and manufacturing service for PLC fibre splitter panels.
 

Speak to one of our fibre specialists to discuss your product requirements. Email sales@cmwltd.co.uk or contact us on 01234 848030.