What are the differences between FBT Splitter and PLC Splitter?

FBT Splitter and PLC Splitter are both types of optical splitters used in fiber optic networks, but they have some key differences:

1. Technology: FBT (Fused Biconic Taper) splitters use a traditional method of splitting light by fusing together two or more fibers. PLC (Planar Lightwave Circuit) splitters use a more advanced technology that involves etching optical waveguides onto a silica substrate.

2. Size: FBT splitters are typically larger and bulkier than PLC splitters, which are more compact and can fit into smaller spaces.

3. Insertion Loss: PLC splitters generally have lower insertion loss than FBT splitters, meaning they are more efficient at splitting light without losing signal strength.

4. Wavelength Range: PLC splitters can operate over a wider range of wavelengths compared to FBT splitters, making them more versatile for different types of fiber optic networks.

5. Temperature Stability: PLC splitters are more stable over a wider temperature range compared to FBT splitters, making them more reliable in varying environmental conditions.

6. Cost: PLC splitters are typically more expensive than FBT splitters due to their advanced technology and higher performance capabilities.

Overall, PLC splitters are considered to be more advanced and efficient than FBT splitters, but the choice between the two will depend on the specific requirements of the fiber optic network and budget constraints.

FBT Splitter (Fused Biconical Taper Splitter)

- Fabrication Method: Made by fusing two optical fibers together and tapering the fusion point.
- Structure: Tapered waist region where the light is split.
- Splitting Ratio: Typically fixed (e.g., 50:50, 1:99).
- Wavelength Dependence: High wavelength dependence, resulting in different splitting ratios at different wavelengths.
- Insertion Loss: Higher than PLC splitters due to the tapering process.
- Polarization Dependence: Sensitive to polarization, causing different splitting ratios for different polarization states.
- Cost: Relatively low due to simple fabrication process.

PLC Splitter (Planar Lightwave Circuit Splitter)

- Fabrication Method: Fabricated on a silicon substrate using lithography and etching techniques.
- Structure: Multiple waveguides patterned on the substrate that guide and split the light.
- Splitting Ratio: Programmable, allowing for flexible splitting ratios (e.g., 50:50, 25:75).
- Wavelength Dependence: Low wavelength dependence, providing consistent splitting ratios across a wide wavelength range.
- Insertion Loss: Lower than FBT splitters due to efficient waveguide design.
- Polarization Dependence: Polarization-insensitive, providing equal splitting ratios for both polarization states.
- Cost: More expensive than FBT splitters due to advanced fabrication process.

Summary

| Feature | FBT Splitter | PLC Splitter |
|---|---|---|
| Fabrication Method | Fused fibers | Lithography and etching |
| Structure | Tapered waist | Waveguides on silicon substrate |
| Splitting Ratio | Fixed | Programmable |
| Wavelength Dependence | High | Low |
| Insertion Loss | Higher | Lower |
| Polarization Dependence | Yes | No |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |

Fiber optic splitter is an important component in FTTx and PON architectures, enabling multiple users to share the optic network. The most common types of optic splitters are FBT (fused biconic taper) splitter and PLC (planar lightwave circuit) splitter. https://www.glsun.com/article-p90-differences-between-fbt-splitter-and-plc-splitter.html