- Choose splitting ratio based on network design: centralized (1×32/1×64) or cascaded (1×4/1×8).
- For EPON/GPON FTTH projects, 1:32 allows 20 km distance, while 1:64 is suitable for shorter distances like 5 km.
The most common splitter used in a passive optical network (PON) system is a uniform power splitter with a 1:N or 2:N splitting ratio (N=2~64), where N is used for the number of output ports. The optical fiber input power is distributed uniformly across all the output ports. Different ratio splitters may perform differently in the FTTH network. Then, the question is very important that how to design your splitting ratio?
According to the mentioned above, if the telecom operators choose the centralized splitting solution, they may need to use a 1×32 or 1×64 splitter. However, if telecom operators choose the cascaded splitting solution, 1×4 and 1×8 splitters may be used more often. Besides, based on the FTTH system EPON/GPON project experience, when the splitting ratio is 1:32, the implemented network can receive a qualified fiber optic signal in 20 km. If the distance between OLT and ONU is small, suppose 5 km, it can also be considered about 1:64.
In PON equipment, the maximum attenuation value of OLT is between 22-25dB, which means that the attenuation value cannot exceed 25dB.
Let’s take an example to see how to calculate the transmission distance of PON, then find out the splitting ratios of the Network:
Step 1. The GPON network is adopted, and the optical module is class C + (the maximum insertion loss is 32dB). Step 2. According to the design of 1:128, the primary PLC splitter is 1:8 (insertion loss 10.5db), the secondary PLC splitter is 1:16 (insertion loss 13.8db), and the total insertion loss of the PLC splitter is 24.3db. Step 3. The total insertion loss of the union is 0.5 × 4＋0.25 × 4＝3dB. Step 4. The core of the feeder and distribution optical cable is G.652D, and the core of the lead-in optical cable is G.657A, without additional loss. Step 5. It is calculated according to the attenuation coefficient (including fixed connection) of 0.4db/km in the uplink direction (1310nm). Step 6. Line maintenance margin: 2.5dB. Step 7. The final transmission distance will be: L ≤ (32-24.3-3-2.5) / 0.4 = 5.5 km.
In the production workshop of the Fiber Optics PLC splitter manufacturer, without any machine as big as the CNC machine equipment, emphasizing the reliance on manual labor for most of the production process. This manual approach, coupled with limited machinery, is a significant factor contributing to delivery times extending beyond a week, unless the product is readily available in stock.
Optical fiber is essential for next-generation telecom services, providing high bandwidth, long-distance transmission, resistance to interference, and enhanced security. In FTTH networks, PLC splitters are preferred over FBT splitters for efficient split configurations due to accurate distribution with minimal loss, meeting the growing demands of mass subscribers.
PLC splitters are silica glass waveguide circuits for efficient light splitting. Types include mini, ABS box, rack-mounted, and more, offering compactness, reliability, and various fiber/connector options for wide spectral range performance.
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