Optical splitters are essential components used in fiber optic networks to divide and distribute light signals among multiple paths. They play a critical role in enabling multiple connections to share a single optical fiber, making it possible to efficiently use the network's capacity. Optical splitters are commonly used in Passive Optical Networks (PONs) for applications like fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) or fiber-to-the-premises (FTTP).
There are different types of optical splitters, but the most common one used in fiber networks is the fused biconical taper (FBT) splitter. Here's how it works:
Optical Fiber Input: The optical splitter takes a single input signal from an optical fiber, carrying data in the form of light pulses.
Fused Biconical Taper (FBT) Technology: FBT splitters are created by fusing together two or more optical fibers, which then gradually reduce in diameter to form a tapered structure. This tapering process causes the optical properties of the fibers to change along the length of the taper.
Dividing the Signal: When the incoming signal enters the fused taper, it propagates through the tapered region. The light signal is split into multiple paths due to the change in optical properties along the taper. The split ratio depends on the specific design of the fused taper, such as the number of input/output fibers and the tapering profile.
Output Signals: The split light signals exit the fused taper and travel through separate output fibers, carrying the same data but divided among different paths. Each output fiber represents a portion of the original signal.
Equal Split Ratios: In most cases, the optical splitter is designed to achieve equal split ratios, meaning the signal is evenly divided among the output fibers. For example, a 1:8 splitter would divide the incoming signal into eight equal parts, each flowing through its respective output fiber.
Low Insertion Loss: One of the key design considerations for optical splitters is to minimize insertion loss. Insertion loss refers to the reduction in signal power as it passes through the splitter. High-quality splitters have low insertion loss to ensure efficient signal distribution.
Passive Component: Optical splitters are passive components, meaning they don't require an external power source. They work solely based on the optical properties of the fused fibers, making them energy-efficient and reliable.
It's important to note that other types of optical splitters, such as planar lightwave circuit (PLC) splitters, are also used in fiber networks. PLC splitters utilize waveguide technology to achieve signal division and are widely used in high-density splitter applications due to their compact and scalable design.
Overall, optical splitters are crucial elements in fiber networks, allowing efficient distribution of light signals and enabling multiple users or devices to share a single optical fiber connection.