In addition to multiplexers, demultiplexers, connectors, attenuators, and couplers, there are other devices used in optical communication links. Some are elements we are already familiar with from wireless communications and copper-guided communications, such as amplifiers, filters, equalizers, and isolators.
One of the most commonly used devices are jumpers, also known as patch cords, which are fiber optic cables with connectors at both ends, unlike pigtails. They are typically used in indoor plants for FTTx, MAN, LAN, and CATV networks. They can be simplex, duplex, or unitube and have the advantage of being able to combine connectors at the ends, as well as choosing the necessary fiber type. Figure 1 shows some jumpers.
Figure 1. Jumpers
Another element is the pigtail, a fiber optic cable with one end ready for connection and the other end unfinished, meaning it has no connector, which allows us to integrate it into fiber optic cables by means of a splice. Pigtails are used in fiber optic management equipment such as terminals, splice closures, or optical distributors. In Figure 2, we can see an example of a 6-strand unitube pigtail, although, like jumpers, you can find them in simplex and duplex versions.
Figure 2. Pigtail
The splitter, also known as an optical splitter and shown in Figure 3, is a passive element with one input and "n" outputs, allowing point-to-multipoint connections. It might remind you of a multiplexer, but the splitter is not wavelength selective and its function is to share the optical power among its output ports without amplification, switching, or other signal modulation. The most common ones have 2, 4, 8, 16, 32, 64, and 128 outputs, although the more outputs there are, the greater the attenuation.
You can find them either connectorized, meaning both input and output will have connectors, unconnectorized (without connectors at the ends), or with connectors only at the input or only at the output.
This element is widely used in PON, GPON, or FTTx networks with SC APC polished connectors, as it is precisely where many signal partitions are needed.
Figure 3. Splitter
At Icoptiks, there is a portal that allows you to configure your ideal jumper or pigtail according to your needs and get a quote for the cables you need.
