What is a PLC Splitter? Understanding Its Role in Fiber Optic Networks
- intern1835
- Nov 5, 2019
- 1 min read
A Planar Lightwave Circuit (PLC) splitter is a passive optical device based on optical semiconductor technology, similar to semiconductor manufacturing processes. It consists of a PLC chip with input and output arrays, where the number of outputs depends on the split ratio. PLC splitters are used to evenly divide one or two optical signals into multiple signals.

Applications in Modern Networks
PLC splitters are widely used in Passive Optical Networks (PON) and Fiber-to-the-Home (FTTH) applications, including GPON, EPON, and xG EPON networks. They connect to the Main Distribution Frame (MDF) and play a crucial role in distributing optical signals efficiently.
Benefits for Telecommunications Companies
As demand for higher bandwidth grows, telecommunications companies rely on PON and PLC splitters to provide fiber optic links to more users, maximizing network capacity and increasing ROI. Neptec offers PLC splitters with split ratios from 1×2 to 1×64 or 2×2 to 2×64, along with various form factors and packaging options to fit different environments and applications. For more information about Neptec's PLC splitters, please contact us.