Relationship Between the Optical Coupler and PLC Splitter
In fact, splitter is named for the function
of the device, coulper named for its working principle, splitter may be based
coupler, and may be based on the waveguide or the separating element, coupler
can be done either the splitter, but also can be done WDM, attenuator.
Optical coupler either split optical
signals into multiple paths or combines multiple signals on one path. Optical
signals are more complex than electrical signals, making optical couplers
trickier to design than their electrical counterparts. Like electrical
currents, a flow of signal carriers, in this case photons, comprise the optical
signal. However, an optical signal does not flow through the receiver to the
ground. Rather, at the receiver, a detector absorbs the signal flow. Multiple
receivers, connected in a series, would receive no signal past the first
receiver which would absorb the entire signal. Thus, multiple parallel optical
output ports must divide the signal between the ports, reducing its magnitude.
The number of input and output ports, expressed as an N x M configuration,
characterizes a coupler. The letter N represents the number of input fibers,
and M represents the number of output fibers. Fused couplers can be made in any
configuration, but they commonly use multiples of two (2 x 2, 4 x 4, 8 x 8,
etc.).
PLC
Splitter is a device that split the fiber optic
light into several parts by a certain ratio. The simplest couplers are PLC
Splitters. These devices possess at least three ports but may have more than 32
for more complex devices. PLC Splitters are important passive components used
in FTTX networks. But two kinds of fiber splitters are popular used, one is the
traditional fused type PLC Splitter (FBT splitter), which features competitive
prices; the other is PLC PLC Splitter, which is compact size and suit for
density applications. Both of them have its advantages to suit for different
requirement.
PLC Spliiter
PLC Splitter typical parameter include
input and output part cable length, splitting ratio, working wavelength and
with what kind of fiber optic connectors. Just like fiber patch cable, fiber
splitters are usually with 0.9mm, 2mm or 3mm cables. 0.9mm outer diameter cable
is mostly used in stainless steel tube package PLC Splitters, while 2mm and 3mm
cables are mostly used in box type package fiber splitters. Based on working
wavelength difference there are single window and dual window PLC Splitters.
And there are single mode fiber splitter and multimode fiber splitter. Typical
connectors installed on the PLC Splitters are FC or SC type.
Optical coupler or PLC splitters are
available in a selection of styles and sizes to separate or combine light with
minimal loss. All couplers are produced employing a proprietary procedure that
produces reliable, low-cost devices. They’re rugged and impervious to common
high operating temperatures. Couplers can be fabricated with custom fiber
lengths or with terminations of any type.