Optical fiber splitters are a key feature of communication networks because they enable simple optical signal transmission from a single input port to multiple output ports. These are especially important for FTTH (Fiber to the Home), data centers, and Passive Optical Networks (PON), where performance, reliability, and efficiency are critical.
One of the most valuable uses of optical splitters is to determine splitter loss. This loss occurs because the signal level decreases as the signal is divided into two or more outputs.
As an expert in fiber optic technology at SDGI Cable, we highlight the importance of precision when designing an optical network. Our goal is to eliminate confusion around fiber optic principles for engineers and network planners and support the development of efficient network infrastructures.
An optical splitter, more often written as a PLC (Planar Lightwave circuit) splitter, is a non-intelligent optical division and routing unit. The use of such devices in the broadband network system, which is made of the optical ground wire (OPGW) system, is in instances where a signaling source is required to several destinations.
It has two parts
● Insertion loss: They are the losses that come with inserting a splitter into the line of sight. These can result from self-meditation, shortcomings, or flaws in the materials.
● Excess Loss: Additional loss that may be caused by alternatives other than the optimized loss, which is likely due to manufacturing mistakes or errors that affect light focusing.
Furthermore, considering our typical example of the perfect Ix2 splitter, the two outputs will each have half of the power fed into them, resulting in an apparent 3 dB loss. However, in real-world conditions, losses are usually higher due to poor splices, connectors, and varying component quality. We need to account for both theoretical and actual losses. Theoretical loss indicates the optimal loss under ideal conditions, while practical loss reflects real-world factors such as connector quality, splicing, and environmental influences.
Direct effects of splitter loss on network performance and continuity are straightforward. If not properly accounted for, excess loss can cause low signal levels, significant errors, or even service outages. FTTH projects must be designed so that the optical signal used is strong enough to reach the customer without severe degradation due to splitter loss. Likewise, enterprise network infrastructure and data centers should use low-loss components to support high-speed, low-latency communications. The total loss should also be considered in PON systems since multiple users are served through splitters from a single transmitter. Signal strength must stay within an expected range along network branches, especially when standards for memory regulations are involved, as they are often strict about signal attenuation.
● Split Ratio: The division of signals depends on the number of output ports in the splitter. They are usually arranged in pairs such as Ix2, Ix4, or Ix8, up to Ix64. A splitter of Ix64 will result in more loss compared to an Ix2 because the signal power is divided among more outputs.
● Wavelength: Splitters are most effective at specific wavelengths—typically 1310 nm, 1490 nm, or 1550 nm. When they operate outside their optimal wavelength range, they tend to attenuate the signal.
● Physical Contact Type: Poor connectors or incorrect connections (such as mixing single-mode and multimode fibers) can introduce additional losses. SDGI-quality connector systems help minimize these losses.
● Environmental Factors: External environmental factors that can impact splitter performance include temperature, humidity, and mechanical stress (such as poor bend radius or improper splicing). Special care should be taken during the installation and maintenance of underground or buried fiber optic cables to check these conditions.
The theoretical insertion loss, constituted by an optical splitter, ought to be calculated as follows:
Theor. Loss(dB) = 10 x log10 (N)
Where N is the number of outside ports
This value assumes the ideal situation, which suggests the lack of additional losses.
Split Ratio | Theoretical Loss (dB) |
1x2 | 3.01 |
1x4 | 6.02 |
1x8 | 9.03 |
1x16 | 12.04 |
1x32 | 15.05 |
1x64 | 18.06 |
Additional loss must be
● Connector Loss: It is normally a low connector addition rate on the installation.
● Splice Loss: This is founded on the splicing or the mechanical splice, whichever depends on the quality of the splicing.
● Bending Loss: This is the loss that occurs under strong bending or misrouting, and the severity of the loss depends on the fiber and radius.
The valid figure of loss is the insertion loss of the splitter through connectors, splices, and bend losses.
To illustrate, we can assume a field use of an Ix8 optical splitter:
● Theoretical loss: 10xlog10(8)=9.03dB
● Connector loss:2x0.3dB=0.6dB
● Splice loss:2x0.2dB=0.4dB
● Total Practical loss:9.03+0.6+0.4=10.03dB
The low-insertion loss characteristics of the sophisticated PLC splitters produced by SDGI Cable are a product of core alignment perfection, low-return loss, and quality assurance. SDGI splitters have excellent and dependable performance in aerial conditions with All-dielectric, self-supporting Cable or underground applications.
Having flexible deployment options, high-performance optical splitters are part of a broad product line offered by SDGI Cable:
● Micro and Android PLC splitters are designed to perform well in space-constrained environments like wall boxes and multimedia cabinets.
● Box-type PLC Splitters can be mounted outdoors on street cabinets and utility poles, even in harsh conditions.
● Bare fiber splitters are suitable for containment and laboratory use.
They are available as single-mode and multimode fiber options, compatible with related fibers such as aluminum-clad steel wire, aluminum conductor steel-reinforced cables, drop cables, and anchor-clamp systems.
SDGI also offers high-speed optical transceivers, including OSFP 400G modules that can be integrated into future data center designs.
Our customer support team provides consultation on:
● Terminations, connectors, and splitters.
● Installation in challenging conditions, such as native bed or pipeline burial lines.
● These systems are combined with OPGW and fiber optic ground wire systems.
The splitter loss is crucial in evaluating the performance of fiber optic networks. The acquisitions guarantee its signal quality, support industry standards, and long-term network performance. A theoretical understanding of splitter loss, particularly regarding particles, helps network engineers design systems that are both efficient and resilient. At SDGI cable, we focus on delivering precise engineering fiber solutions that meet current connectivity needs. Planning a streetwise FTTH deployment or expanding a high-speed data center? You can trust that SDGI provides the high-quality, low-loss components you need to turn your vision into reality.
