A split ratio describes how many output ports a splitter has, and how evenly the input optical power is distributed across those ports. For example, a 1:32 splitter takes 1 input signal and splits it into 32 equal (or nearly equal) output signals. Bandwidth is shared amongst customers in a PON, and the bandwidth received by a customer is not. By dividing a single optical signal from a central Optical Line Terminal (OLT) into multiple outputs for Optical Network Terminals (ONTs) at users' homes, splitters eliminate the need for dedicated fibers to each residence—slashing infrastructure costs while scaling network reach. This guide. The real design trade-offs lie in how you split the optical signals, where you locate the splitters, and the ratio you choose for subscriber sharing. Let's dive into the key considerations. Splitter Type: The Foundation It all begins with selecting the right optical splitter: The two main types. In any FTTH network, the PLC splitter is not just a passive optical component — it is a capacity decision point.
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