Bare Fibre PLC Splitters Price in Kenya
Bare PLC Splitter 1x8 in Kenya
KSh 300.00
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Continue shoppingBare PLC Splitter 1x8 in Kenya
The Bare PLC Splitter 1x8 is a passive fibre optic component designed to divide one incoming single-mode optical signal into eight output fibre paths. It uses Planar Lightwave Circuit technology to distribute optical power across multiple branches without requiring electrical power, making it highly suitable for FTTH, GPON, XGS-PON and other passive optical distribution networks.
Bare 1x8 PLC splitters are particularly useful where installation space is limited. A current commercial configuration uses G.657A1 single-mode fibre, 250 µm unconnectorized leads, a compact steel-tube package and a 1260–1650 nm operating wavelength range. The bare ends can be fusion-spliced directly to feeder, distribution or pigtail fibres according to the required network design.
At Fiber Optics Kenya, the Bare PLC Splitter 1x8 is ideal for ISPs, fibre contractors, FTTH installers, telecommunications companies and network integrators building compact passive optical distribution systems. Customers can also source compatible FDB/FAT boxes, ODFs, SC/APC pigtails, splice sleeves, fibre trays, FTTH drop cables, fusion-splicing tools and optical testing equipment.
Key Product Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Bare PLC Splitter 1x8 |
| Product Type | Passive Optical PLC Splitter |
| Configuration | 1 × 8 |
| Number of Inputs | 1 |
| Number of Outputs | 8 |
| Splitting Technology | Planar Lightwave Circuit |
| Split Ratio | Symmetrical / Balanced |
| Approximate Ideal Power per Output | 12.5% |
| Fibre Mode | Single Mode |
| Typical Fibre Type | G.657A1 |
| Alternative Fibre Type | Manufacturer dependent |
| Typical Fibre Diameter | 250 µm |
| Connector Type | None on bare version |
| Operating Wavelength | 1260–1650 nm |
| Typical Fibre Length | Around 1.5 m on representative model |
| Typical Maximum Insertion Loss | Approximately ≤10.2–10.3 dB |
| Typical Uniformity | ≤0.8 dB |
| Typical PDL | ≤0.2 dB |
| Typical WDL | ≤0.3 dB |
| Typical Return Loss | ≥55 dB |
| Typical Directivity | ≥55 dB |
| Package Style | Steel Tube / Bare Fibre |
| Electrical Power Required | No |
| Applications | FTTH, GPON, XGS-PON, ODF, FDB, PON |
| Professional Installation | Available |
| Delivery | Available throughout Kenya |
FS's current 1x8 bare splitter specifies G.657A1 fibre, 250 µm leads, symmetrical splitting, 1.5 m fibre length, ≤10.2 dB insertion loss, ≤0.8 dB uniformity, ≤0.2 dB PDL and ≥55 dB directivity/return loss.
What Does Bare PLC Splitter 1x8 Mean?
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| PLC | Planar Lightwave Circuit |
| 1x8 | One input divided into eight optical outputs |
| Bare | Unconnectorized fibre leads |
| Splitter | Passive optical power-distribution device |
| Single Mode | Fibre designed for long-distance optical transmission |
| 250 µm | Common coating diameter for bare fibre leads |
| PON | Passive Optical Network |
| FTTH | Fibre to the Home |
| Balanced | Optical power distributed approximately equally |
The 1x8 configuration allows one optical feeder to branch into eight downstream fibre paths without adding powered network equipment.
How a 1x8 PLC Splitter Works
The optical signal enters through one fibre and is divided by the PLC optical circuit into eight output channels.
| Stage | Function |
|---|---|
| Input Fibre | Receives incoming optical signal |
| PLC Optical Circuit | Divides optical power |
| Output 1 | Carries part of the optical signal |
| Output 2 | Carries part of the optical signal |
| Output 3 | Carries part of the optical signal |
| Output 4 | Carries part of the optical signal |
| Output 5 | Carries part of the optical signal |
| Output 6 | Carries part of the optical signal |
| Output 7 | Carries part of the optical signal |
| Output 8 | Carries part of the optical signal |
An ideal eight-way split produces about 9 dB of theoretical splitting loss, while real-world PLC splitters include additional device loss. Current 1x8 bare PLC products commonly specify maximum insertion loss around 10.2–10.3 dB.
Typical 1x8 Optical Distribution
| Input | Output | Approximate Ideal Power Share |
|---|---|---|
| Input 1 | Output 1 | 12.5% |
| Input 1 | Output 2 | 12.5% |
| Input 1 | Output 3 | 12.5% |
| Input 1 | Output 4 | 12.5% |
| Input 1 | Output 5 | 12.5% |
| Input 1 | Output 6 | 12.5% |
| Input 1 | Output 7 | 12.5% |
| Input 1 | Output 8 | 12.5% |
The actual optical level received on each output also depends on splitter uniformity, fibre losses, connectors, splices and the rest of the optical distribution network.
PLC Splitter Technology
Planar Lightwave Circuit technology is designed to provide predictable optical distribution across multiple outputs while operating over the wide wavelength range used by passive optical networks. Bare PLC splitter families are available in configurations including 1x2, 1x4, 1x8, 1x16 and 1x32.
| PLC Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Broad Wavelength Range | Suitable for modern PON networks |
| Balanced Outputs | Similar optical power across ports |
| Low PDL | Stable optical performance |
| Compact Package | Excellent for FDBs and splice trays |
| Passive Operation | No electricity required |
| Multiple Split Ratios | Supports scalable fibre networks |
| Single-Mode Operation | Excellent for FTTH and telecom |
| High Directivity | Helps maintain optical isolation |
Typical Optical Performance
| Optical Parameter | Representative Specification |
|---|---|
| Configuration | 1x8 |
| Operating Wavelength | 1260–1650 nm |
| Fibre Type | G.657A1 |
| Insertion Loss | ≤10.2–10.3 dB |
| Loss Uniformity | ≤0.8 dB |
| Polarization Dependent Loss | ≤0.2 dB |
| Wavelength Dependent Loss | ≤0.3 dB |
| Return Loss | ≥55 dB |
| Directivity | ≥55 dB |
| Fibre Diameter | 250 µm |
| Fibre Mode | Single Mode |
FS's bare PLC splitter datasheet gives ≤10.3 dB insertion loss for a 1x8 configuration, while its exact 1x8 product page specifies ≤10.2 dB for that particular model.
Why the 1260–1650 nm Range Matters
The 1260–1650 nm operating window allows one PLC splitter to work across the wavelength ranges used by several single-mode access-network technologies.
| Wavelength | Common Application |
|---|---|
| 1310 nm | Upstream optical transmission |
| 1490 nm | Traditional GPON downstream |
| 1550 nm | Video overlay and optical services |
| 1577 nm | Used by newer PON technologies |
| 1625 nm | Monitoring and testing applications |
This broad wavelength compatibility is one reason PLC splitters are widely used in modern passive optical distribution.
G.657A1 Single-Mode Fibre
Current bare 1x8 PLC splitters commonly use G.657A1 bend-insensitive single-mode fibre, which is useful inside compact distribution boxes and fibre-management trays.
| G.657A1 Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Single Mode | Suitable for long-distance networks |
| Bend Insensitive | Better performance in tight routing |
| Compact Enclosures | Excellent |
| FTTH Distribution | Excellent |
| Splice Tray Routing | Excellent |
| FDB Installation | Excellent |
| PON Compatibility | Excellent |
Bare Fibre Construction
The key difference between a bare PLC splitter and a connectorized splitter is the unconnectorized fibre leads.
| Bare Fibre Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| No Factory Connectors | Flexible network termination |
| 250 µm Leads | Extremely compact |
| Fusion-Splice Ready | Direct integration into network |
| Minimal Space Requirement | Ideal for small enclosures |
| Compact Steel Tube | Protects PLC circuit |
| Custom Termination | Installer chooses APC, UPC or direct splice |
| No Connector Loss Initially | Connector losses depend on final termination |
The exact FS 1x8 bare product uses a steel-tube package, 250 µm ribbon fibre and no connectors.
Typical Physical Construction
| Component | Function |
|---|---|
| Input Fibre Lead | Carries incoming optical signal |
| PLC Chip | Performs optical splitting |
| Steel Tube | Protects internal optical circuit |
| Eight Output Leads | Carry split optical signals |
| 250 µm Coating | Protects optical glass |
| Identification System | Helps distinguish output fibres |
Because the leads are thin, bare splitters should be installed inside a suitable fibre enclosure or splice-management system rather than left exposed.
Bare PLC Splitter vs Mini Blockless PLC Splitter
| Feature | Bare 1x8 PLC | Mini Blockless 1x8 PLC |
|---|---|---|
| Fibre Protection | Minimal | Greater |
| Typical Fibre Diameter | 250 µm | 900 µm commonly |
| Package Size | Extremely Small | Small |
| Connector Options | Usually None | Optional |
| Splice Tray Installation | Excellent | Excellent |
| FDB Installation | Excellent | Excellent |
| Handling Strength | Lower | Higher |
| Space Requirement | Lowest | Low |
Bare PLC Splitter vs ABS Box PLC Splitter
| Feature | Bare 1x8 | ABS Box 1x8 |
|---|---|---|
| Physical Size | Very Compact | Larger |
| Mechanical Protection | Minimal | High |
| Bare Fibre Leads | Common | Less common |
| Connectorized Options | Usually No | Very Common |
| Splice Tray Integration | Excellent | Less compact |
| FDB Installation | Excellent | Good |
| Indoor Rack Installation | Requires enclosure | Excellent |
| Customization | High | Moderate |
250 µm vs 900 µm PLC Splitter
| Feature | 250 µm | 900 µm |
|---|---|---|
| Fibre Diameter | Smaller | Larger |
| Installation Space | Minimal | Slightly More |
| Mechanical Protection | Lower | Better |
| Handling | Requires Greater Care | Easier |
| Splice Tray Installation | Excellent | Excellent |
| FDB Installation | Excellent | Excellent |
| Bare Splitter Use | Very Common | Available |
FS notes that bare PLC splitter families can be packaged with 250 µm or 900 µm leads, depending on the required installation.
1x2 vs 1x4 vs 1x8 PLC Splitter
| Feature | 1x2 | 1x4 | 1x8 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inputs | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Outputs | 2 | 4 | 8 |
| Ideal Power per Output | 50% | 25% | 12.5% |
| Theoretical Split Loss | ~3 dB | ~6 dB | ~9 dB |
| Typical Maximum PLC Loss | ~3.8 dB | ~7.1 dB | ~10.3 dB |
| Subscriber Capacity | 2 | 4 | 8 |
| Optical Budget Requirement | Lowest | Moderate | Higher |
| Small FTTH Distribution | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent |
Representative FS bare-splitter data gives maximum insertion-loss values of 3.8 dB for 1x2, 7.1 dB for 1x4 and 10.3 dB for 1x8.
1x8 vs 1x16 PLC Splitter
| Feature | 1x8 | 1x16 |
|---|---|---|
| Outputs | 8 | 16 |
| Ideal Power per Output | 12.5% | 6.25% |
| Theoretical Split Loss | ~9 dB | ~12 dB |
| Typical Real Loss | ~10.3 dB | ~13.5 dB |
| Subscriber Capacity | 8 | 16 |
| Optical Budget Flexibility | Better | More Demanding |
| Small Distribution Box | Excellent | Depends on box |
FS's bare PLC splitter datasheet specifies approximately ≤10.3 dB for 1x8 and ≤13.5 dB for 1x16, illustrating the additional loss as the split ratio increases.
1x8 vs 1x32 PLC Splitter
| Feature | 1x8 | 1x32 |
|---|---|---|
| Outputs | 8 | 32 |
| Ideal Power per Output | 12.5% | 3.125% |
| Optical Loss | Moderate | Much Higher |
| Small Subscriber Cluster | Excellent | Excessive in many cases |
| Large PON Network | Good | Excellent |
| Optical Budget Requirement | Moderate | More demanding |
| Installation Complexity | Lower | Higher |
Balanced 1x8 PLC Splitter
A typical 1x8 PLC splitter is symmetrical or balanced, meaning the optical circuit is designed to deliver approximately equal power to all eight output ports. FS explicitly specifies a symmetrical split ratio on its bare 1x8 model.
| Feature | Balanced 1x8 PLC |
|---|---|
| Outputs | 8 |
| Target Power Share | Approximately Equal |
| Ideal Share per Output | 12.5% |
| Uniformity | Controlled |
| FTTH Suitability | Excellent |
| GPON Suitability | Excellent |
| Network Planning | Straightforward |
Why Choose a 1x8 Split Ratio?
A 1x8 splitter provides a useful balance between subscriber capacity and optical loss.
| Deployment | Why 1x8 Is Useful |
|---|---|
| Small Apartment Block | Up to eight fibre branches |
| Office Building | Several users from one feeder |
| Residential Cluster | Compact optical distribution |
| Campus Building | Multiple downstream endpoints |
| FTTH FDB | Eight subscriber branches |
| Cascaded PON | Useful as first or second splitting stage |
| Small ISP Deployment | Good subscriber density |
Cascaded PLC Splitting
A 1x8 splitter can be used in a cascaded network, but every additional splitting stage contributes optical loss.
| Example | Total Potential Branches |
|---|---|
| 1x2 → 1x8 | 16 |
| 1x4 → 1x8 | 32 |
| 1x8 → 1x8 | 64 |
The network designer must calculate the full optical budget—including splitter loss, fibre attenuation, splices and connectors—to ensure sufficient optical power reaches each ONT.
Key Benefits of Bare PLC Splitter 1x8
Eight Optical Outputs
One feeder fibre can be distributed to eight subscriber or downstream fibre paths.
Compact Bare-Fibre Design
A 250 µm bare splitter occupies very little enclosure space.
Wide Operating Wavelength
The 1260–1650 nm range supports broad PON and optical-access applications.
Low Polarization Dependent Loss
The representative 1x8 FS product specifies ≤0.2 dB PDL.
Balanced Optical Distribution
The symmetrical design distributes optical power across eight outputs with controlled uniformity.
G.657A1 Bend-Insensitive Fibre
This facilitates routing inside compact fibre boxes and splice trays.
No Electrical Power
The splitter performs its function passively.
Watch Bare PLC Splitter 1x8
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/s5GmsCwBFCs
The Bare PLC Splitter 1x8 provides a compact way to distribute one incoming single-mode fibre signal across eight downstream optical paths. Current 1x8 bare PLC splitters are available with G.657A1 bend-insensitive fibre, 250 µm leads, no connectors and compact steel-tube packaging, making them particularly suitable for splice trays, ODFs and fibre distribution boxes where space is limited.
A balanced 1x8 splitter distributes approximately one-eighth of the incoming optical power to each output before practical device losses are considered. Current professional bare PLC specifications show insertion loss around 10.2–10.3 dB, with low polarization-dependent loss and good channel uniformity. These losses need to be included carefully in the overall PON optical budget when designing connections between the OLT, splitter network and ONTs.
Because the bare version is supplied without connectors, technicians can integrate it directly into the required fibre architecture using fusion splicing. Fiber Optics Kenya can supply the Bare PLC Splitter 1x8 together with SC/APC pigtails, splice sleeves, FDB/FAT boxes, ODFs, FTTH drop cables, fusion-splicing accessories and optical testing equipment, making it easier to source a complete passive optical distribution solution.
Applications of Bare PLC Splitter 1x8
1. FTTH Networks
Divide one feeder fibre into eight subscriber or downstream optical connections.
2. GPON Networks
Distribute optical signals from an OLT toward multiple ONTs.
3. XGS-PON Networks
Current bare PLC splitter designs support broad wavelength transmission and are marketed for GPON and XGS-PON optical distribution.
4. EPON Networks
Provide passive one-to-eight optical signal distribution.
5. Fibre Distribution Boxes
Install inside FDBs to provide multiple downstream subscriber fibres.
6. FAT Boxes
Create eight subscriber or branch connections from a feeder fibre.
7. Optical Distribution Frames
Integrate a compact splitter into ODF splice-management systems.
8. Fibre Joint Closures
Fusion-splice bare leads directly into outside-plant fibre infrastructure.
9. Telecommunications Networks
Provide passive optical distribution without switches or electrical equipment.
10. Fibre Testing Networks
Divide one optical source into multiple test paths.
Typical FTTH Network Using Bare PLC Splitter 1x8
| Network Stage | Typical Component |
|---|---|
| Central Equipment | OLT |
| Feeder Fibre | Single Mode |
| Splitter Input | 1 Fibre |
| Splitter | Bare PLC Splitter 1x8 |
| Splitter Outputs | 8 Fibres |
| Distribution Enclosure | FDB / FAT |
| Subscriber Fibre | FTTH Drop Cable |
| Subscriber Equipment | ONT / ONU |
Typical Optical Budget Considerations
| Loss Source | Must Be Considered? |
|---|---|
| 1x8 PLC Splitter | Yes |
| Feeder Fibre Attenuation | Yes |
| Distribution Fibre Attenuation | Yes |
| Fusion Splices | Yes |
| Connector Pairs | Yes |
| Adapters | Yes |
| Additional Splitters | Yes |
| Engineering Margin | Yes |
The splitter alone can contribute around 10.3 dB maximum insertion loss on representative bare 1x8 products, so it is an important part of the link budget.
Installation Considerations
| Installation Factor | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Bare Fibre Protection | Install inside suitable enclosure |
| Optical Budget | Include full splitter loss |
| Bend Radius | Respect G.657A1 requirements |
| Fusion Splicing | Use precision splicing equipment |
| Splice Protection | Use heat-shrink sleeves |
| Output Identification | Label all eight fibres |
| Fibre Management | Keep fibres organized in tray |
| Connector Cleaning | Clean any downstream connectors |
| Testing | Measure optical power after installation |
| Service Slack | Leave manageable fibre slack |
Recommended Accessories
| Accessory | Purpose |
|---|---|
| SC/APC Pigtails | APC termination of bare outputs |
| SC/UPC Pigtails | UPC termination where required |
| Fusion Splice Sleeves | Protect optical splices |
| Fibre Splice Tray | Organizes splitter leads |
| FDB / FAT Box | Houses splitter and subscriber fibres |
| Optical Distribution Frame | Provides structured fibre termination |
| FTTH Drop Cable | Connects subscribers |
| Fibre Cleaver | Precision-prepares fibres |
| Fibre Stripper | Removes fibre coating |
| Fusion Splicer | Splices bare splitter leads |
| Optical Power Meter | Measures optical power |
| PON Power Meter | Tests PON wavelengths |
| Visual Fault Locator | Helps trace fibre paths |
| OTDR | Tests completed fibre network |
Why Buy Bare PLC Splitter 1x8 from Fiber Optics Kenya?
| Why Choose Fiber Optics Kenya? | Customer Benefit |
|---|---|
| 1x8 PLC Splitters | Efficient eight-way distribution |
| Bare Fibre Options | Compact network installation |
| Single-Mode Fibre | Suitable for FTTH and PON |
| G.657 Options | Better routing flexibility |
| SC/APC Pigtails | Matching termination accessories |
| FDB & FAT Boxes | Complete subscriber distribution |
| ODFs & Splice Trays | Professional fibre management |
| FTTH Drop Cables | Complete downstream connections |
| Splicing Equipment | Installation tools available |
| Testing Equipment | Verify optical performance |
| Technical Guidance | Help selecting split ratios and accessories |
| Bulk Supply | Suitable for ISPs and contractors |
| Competitive Pricing | Cost-effective project procurement |
| Nationwide Delivery | Supply throughout Kenya |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Bare PLC Splitter 1x8?
It is a passive optical splitter that divides one single-mode fibre input into eight output fibres. Bare versions are supplied without connectors for splice-in installation.
What does PLC mean?
PLC means Planar Lightwave Circuit.
What does 1x8 mean?
It means one optical input and eight optical outputs.
How much optical power does each output receive?
In an ideal balanced splitter, each output receives approximately 12.5% of the incoming optical power before actual device loss is included.
What is the theoretical splitting loss?
An ideal 1x8 optical split has approximately 9 dB of splitting loss.
What is the actual insertion loss?
Representative bare 1x8 products specify approximately ≤10.2–10.3 dB insertion loss.
What fibre type does it use?
A current FS 1x8 bare PLC splitter uses G.657A1 single-mode fibre.
What fibre diameter is commonly used?
The cited bare 1x8 model uses 250 µm fibre leads.
Does it come with connectors?
A true bare version normally comes without connectors.
How long are the fibre leads?
One current model uses approximately 1.5 m input/output fibre leads.
What is the operating wavelength?
Representative bare PLC splitters operate from 1260 nm to 1650 nm.
What is the typical PDL?
One exact 1x8 model specifies ≤0.2 dB polarization-dependent loss.
What is the typical uniformity?
The same representative 1x8 configuration specifies ≤0.8 dB insertion-loss uniformity.
What is the typical return loss?
A representative bare 1x8 model specifies ≥55 dB return loss.
Does the splitter require electricity?
No. A PLC splitter is a passive optical component.
Can it be used for FTTH?
Yes. Bare PLC splitters are designed for FTTx optical distribution applications.
Can it be used for GPON?
Yes. The cited FS bare splitter family is designed for PON standards including GPON.
Can it be used with XGS-PON?
Yes. Current bare PLC splitter products are also positioned for XGS-PON optical distribution.
Can it be installed inside an FDB?
Yes. Its compact bare-fibre construction is especially suitable for enclosed distribution and splice applications.
Can it be installed inside an ODF?
Yes. Bare PLC splitters can be integrated into ODFs and splice trays.
Does it require fusion splicing?
Normally yes. Unconnectorized bare-fibre leads are designed to be spliced into the required optical network.
Can I terminate it with SC/APC connectors?
Yes. The outputs can be fusion-spliced to SC/APC pigtails when the network requires APC interfaces.
Can one 1x8 PLC splitter serve eight customers?
Potentially yes. Each output can feed one subscriber or another downstream branch, provided the complete network design and optical budget support it.
Can I connect another PLC splitter after it?
Yes, PLC splitters can be cascaded, but every additional splitting stage increases optical loss and must be calculated carefully.
What is the difference between 1x4 and 1x8?
A 1x4 has four outputs and lower splitter loss, while a 1x8 provides eight outputs but introduces greater optical loss. Representative bare PLC specifications list about 7.1 dB for 1x4 versus 10.3 dB for 1x8.
What is the difference between bare and ABS PLC splitters?
Bare splitters are extremely compact and intended for integration into another enclosure, while ABS-box splitters provide greater mechanical protection.
Do you supply 1x2 and 1x4 PLC splitters?
Yes. PLC splitter families include 1x2, 1x4, 1x8, 1x16 and 1x32 configurations.
Do you supply SC/APC pigtails?
Yes. Fiber Optics Kenya can supply matching SC/APC single-mode pigtails.
Do you supply FDB and FAT boxes?
Yes. Compatible fibre distribution and access terminal boxes can be supplied.
Do you supply fusion-splicing equipment?
Yes. Fibre cleavers, strippers, splice accessories and related installation tools can be supplied.
Do you provide fibre installation and testing?
Yes. Professional fibre splicing, installation, termination and optical testing support is available.
Do you deliver outside Nairobi?
Yes. Fiber Optics Kenya supplies fibre optic products and accessories throughout Kenya.
Contact Fiber Optics Kenya
Fiber Optics Kenya
Lyric House
7th Floor Room S9
Kimathi Street
Nairobi
Phone: +254 704 991 492
Email: info@fibreopticskenya.co.ke
The Bare PLC Splitter 1x8 provides compact and reliable eight-way optical distribution for FTTH, GPON, XGS-PON and other passive fibre networks.
Contact Fiber Optics Kenya for competitive pricing, PLC splitters, FDBs, ODFs, fibre accessories, bulk orders and nationwide delivery across Kenya.