Fiber optic splitters play an increasingly significant role in many of today’s optical network topologies. They provide capabilities that help users maximize the functionality of optical network circuits from FTTx systems to traditional optical networks. And usually they are placed in the central office or in one of the distribution points (outdoor or indoor).
What is FBT Splitter?
FBT splitter is based on traditional technology to weld several fibers together from the side of the fiber. Fibers are aligned by heating for a specific location and length. Because the fused fibers are very fragile, they are protected by a glass tube made of epoxy and silica powder. And then a stainless steel tube covers the inner glass tube and is sealed by silicon. As technology continues developing, the quality of FBT splitter is very good and it can be applied in a cost-effective way. The following table shows the advantages and disadvantages of FBT splitter.
What is PLC Splitter?
PLC splitter is based on planar lightwave circuit technology. It comprises three layers: a substrate, a waveguide, and a lid. The waveguide plays a key role in the splitting process which allows for passing specific percentages of light. So the signal can be split equally. In addition, PLC splitters are available in a variety of split ratios, including 1:4, 1:8, 1:16, 1:32, 1:64, etc. They also have several types, such as bare PLC splitter, blockless PLC splitter, fanout PLC splitter, mini plug-in type PLC splitter, etc. The following table shows the advantages and disadvantages of PLC splitter.
Different between FBT splitter and PLC Splitter:
Split rate:
Wavelength:
Fabrication Method
Two or more pieces of optical fibers are bound together and put on a fused-taper fiber device. The fibers are then drawn out according to the output branch and ratio with one fiber being singled out as the input.
Consists of one optical chip and several optical arrays depending on the output ratio. The optical arrays are coupled on both ends of the chip.
Operating Wavelength
1310nm and lSSOnm (standard); 850nm (custom)
1260nm -1650nm (full wavelength)
Application
HFC (network of fiber and coaxial cable for CATV); All FTIH applications.
Same
Performance
Up to 1:8 – reliable. For larger splits reliability can become an issue.
Good for all splits. High level of reliability and stability.
Input/Output
One or two inputs with an output maximum of 32 fibers.
One or two inputs with an output maximum of 64 fibers.
Package
Steel Tube (used mainly in equipment); ABS Black Module (Conventional)
Same
Input/Output Cable
Post time: Jun-14-2022