What Is a PLC Splitter?
A PLC (Planar Lightwave Circuit) splitter is an optical power distribution device based on integrated waveguide technology on a quartz substrate. Using semiconductor manufacturing processes such as photolithography and etching, it creates an optical splitting network on a chip, dividing one input optical signal evenly into multiple output signals. It is one of the most critical passive components in PON (Passive Optical Network) and FTTH (Fiber to the Home) networks.
Compared to traditional FBT (Fused Biconical Taper) splitters, PLC splitters offer superior uniformity, broader wavelength range (1260-1650nm), higher temperature stability (-40°C to 85°C), compact size, and higher reliability, making them the preferred choice for modern fiber networks.
PLC vs FBT Splitters: Key Differences
PLC Splitters: Use semiconductor photolithography to create precise waveguide circuits on a quartz substrate. Offer uniform signal distribution, support 1×2 to 1×64 or higher split ratios, operate across 1260-1650nm full wavelength range, temperature range -40°C to 85°C. Ideal for large-scale FTTH and PON deployments.
FBT Splitters: Use traditional fusion tapering process by heating and stretching fibers together. Poorer uniformity, limited to 1×8 or lower split ratios, wavelength-dependent (1310nm and 1550nm only), temperature range -5°C to 75°C. Suitable for small-scale, cost-sensitive applications.
Recommendation: For most modern FTTH and PON networks, PLC splitters are the more reliable and scalable choice. Consider FBT splitters only when split ratio ≤1:4 and budget is extremely constrained.
How to Choose the Right Split Ratio
Split ratio is one of the most important parameters when selecting a PLC splitter, determining how many users a single fiber can serve.
- 1×2 / 1×4 Splitters: Insertion loss ~3.5-7dB. Suitable for small office networks, building-level distribution, or first-stage splitting in cascaded architectures.
- 1×8 / 1×16 Splitters: Insertion loss ~10-13.5dB. Ideal for medium-density FTTH deployments and residential areas.
- 1×32 Splitter: Insertion loss ~16.5dB. The most widely deployed split ratio in standard GPON FTTH. Works with Class B+/C+ OLT optics for 15-20km coverage.
- 1×64 Splitter: Insertion loss ~20dB. Suitable for high-density urban FTTH, requires Class C+ or higher OLT optics.
When selecting a split ratio, always calculate your optical link budget: OLT transmitter power minus receiver sensitivity gives total budget. Subtract fiber attenuation, connector losses, and splice losses. The remaining budget must exceed the splitter insertion loss.
Package Type Selection
ABS Box Type: The most common packaging format. Uses ABS plastic housing to protect internal components. Supports SC/APC and other standard connectors. Suitable for fiber distribution boxes, cabinets, and 19-inch racks. Langzhi Technology offers 1×2 to 1×64 ABS box PLC splitters.
Mini Steel Tube Type: Stainless steel tube package, ultra-compact (3-4mm diameter). Can be installed directly in splice closures and module boxes, saving 70% installation space. Ideal for FTTH drop deployment.
Plug-in / LGX Cassette Type: Modular design, plugs into 19-inch racks or ODF panels. Plug-and-play, no splicing required. Suitable for central offices and data centers requiring clean cabling.
Rack-Mount Type: Standard 1U/2U chassis design, integrates multiple splitter modules. Suitable for high-density core node deployments, covering thousands of FTTH subscribers per rack.
Bare Fiber Type: No outer packaging, direct fiber output. Lowest cost, suitable for installation in splice trays or test instruments. Requires proper fiber protection.
Connector and Polish Type Selection
SC/APC (Green): The most common connector for GPON/EPON networks. APC (8° angled polish) provides ≥60dB return loss, effectively preventing back-reflection from damaging OLT lasers. The standard choice for FTTH networks.
SC/UPC (Blue): Return loss ~50dB. Suitable for less reflection-sensitive scenarios. Slightly lower cost than APC.
LC/UPC or LC/APC: Miniature connector, ideal for high-density data center environments requiring higher port density.
FC/UPC or FC/APC: Thread-lock connector, good vibration resistance, suitable for test equipment and vibrating environments.
Recommendation: SC/APC is the safest and most versatile choice for most FTTH and PON deployments. LC connectors are preferred for data centers. FC connectors are recommended for test equipment.
Key Performance Specifications
| Parameter | Description | Typical Value |
|---|---|---|
| Insertion Loss (IL) | Power attenuation through the splitter | 1×2: ≤3.8dB, 1×32: ≤16.5dB, 1×64: ≤20.5dB |
| Uniformity | Power difference between output ports | ≤0.5dB (Premium) / ≤0.8dB (Standard) |
| Return Loss (RL) | Reflection suppression performance | APC≥55dB, UPC≥50dB |
| PDL | Power variation due to polarization | ≤0.2dB |
| Wavelength Range | Supported communication bands | 1260-1650nm (full band) |
| Operating Temperature | Environmental tolerance | -40°C to 85°C |
Recommendations by Use Case
- Large-Scale FTTH (1×32): ABS box PLC splitter, SC/APC, 1×32 ratio, paired with Class C+ OLT optics.
- Building/Community Distribution (1×8/1×16): Mini steel tube splitters for easy installation in splice closures.
- Data Center/Central Office: LGX cassette or rack-mount splitters for clean cabling and easy management.
- Rural/Low-Density Areas (1×8): Bare fiber or mini steel tube splitters for best cost efficiency.
- Enterprise Campus Network: ABS box splitters with LC/UPC connectors for LAN equipment compatibility.
Langzhi Technology PLC Splitter Products
Langzhi Technology offers a full range of PLC optical splitters with split ratios from 1×2 to 1×64, package types including ABS box, mini steel tube, plug-in/LGX cassette, rack-mount, and bare fiber, and connector options including SC/APC, SC/UPC, LC/APC, LC/UPC, and FC/APC. All products are Telcordia GR-1209/1221 certified, featuring low insertion loss and excellent uniformity for long-term stable operation. Visit Langzhi Technology to explore the full product line.
