Types of Fiber Optic Splitters and Usage Precautions

Fiber optic splitter is a fiber optic passive device that separates/combines optical signals. It is generally used to separate or combine optical signals of the same wavelength.

Classification of fiber optic splitters

According to the different arrangement of fiber optic splitters ports, they can be divided into symmetrical star type splitters and asymmetrical tree type splitters;

According to the type of fiber, they can be divided into single-mode fiber optic splitters and multimode fiber optic splitters;

According to the bandwidth, they can be divided into narrowband fiber optic splitters and wideband fiber optic splitters;

The common manufacturing methods are fusion taper (FBT) type splitters and planar lightwave circuit (PLC) splitters such as pm fiber splitter.

Instructions and precautions for using fiber optic splitters

Preparation before use

• Prepare anhydrous alcohol and dust-free wiping paper.

  
  

• If conditions permit, prepare a portable fiber optic magnifier (at least 200 times).

  
  

• Prepare some relevant standard tests and adapters as backups.

  
  

• If possible, wear clean finger cots for operation.
  

Precautions during the use of fiber optic splitters

• After unpacking the product, check for any damage.

  
  

• Check if the product channels have dust protection equipment.

  
  

• Select the appropriate fiber optic connector according to the product model. Clean the fiber optic connector end face before connecting. When cleaning, spread the alcohol-soaked wiping paper (at least 3 layers) flat on the table, and wipe in one direction along the angle of the ceramic surface, avoiding back and forth wiping to prevent damage to the end face.

  
  

• After cleaning, distinguish the input and output ports, remove the dust protection device of the standby product, and assemble the connector. During installation, pay attention to the following situations (SC type is used as an example): align the connector's key face with the adapter's notch face, and then insert it along the adapter horizontally. When you hear a "click" sound, observe whether the white line on the connector is parallel with the edge of the adapter. If it is parallel, it means the latch is in place.

Then connect the input end and each output end to the test system one by one to determine if the optical indicators meet the requirements. If it is a different type of connector, it needs to be properly installed according to the actual model.

Common problems and solutions of fiber optic splitters

Anomalies in one or all channels of the output end. This is the most common problem. In general, the possibility of defects in the splitter is relatively small, and the main focus is on the connector, especially the fiber end face. The common treatment methods in production sites are: using a specially designed wiping rod dipped in alcohol to clean the sleeve and the end face of the inner connector. Also clean the connectors of the test cables, and then retest after cleaning.

After passing the test, install the cleaned dust cap on the adapter. Seal the spare channels or unused channel holes on the rack or tray with silicone plugs or adapters to prevent dust from entering.