What are the key differences and similarities between a fiber distribution terminal and a splitter in FTTH?

FDT stands for Fiber Distribution Terminal. Functionality - acts as a hub in the network. It's where the optical fibers from a central point (like a data center or a central office) are connected to the individual fibers that run to each home or end user. Essentially, it's a distribution point that manages and routes the optical signals to multiple destinations. Location - FDTs are strategically placed within a neighborhood or community. Role in FTTH - It's part of the 'last mile' of fiber-optic deployment, which is key to delivering high-bandwidth, low-latency internet services directly to homes.

An optical splitter is a component used in fiber optic technology. A splitter is used to split the optical signal into many. It is primarily classified into two types. 1) Fused biconical tape (FBT) and 2) Planar Lightwave circuit (PLC). In the FTTx applications, PLC splitters are used, where they split 1:2, 1:4, 1:8, 1:12, 1:32, 1:64, and 1:128 with a wavelength ranging from 1260 nm to 1620 nm.

FBT--Fused Biconical taper (FBT), splits the fiber optic signal from a single Input to two Outputs or three outputs. Available in 50/50, 10/90, 20/80, and more splitting ratios for two output types. 10/10/80, 20/20/60, 30/30/40, and more for the three outputs type. PLC--Planar Lightwave Circuit (PLC), splits the fiber optic signal from a single Input or two inputs to 2, 4, 6, 8, 12, 16, 32, 64,128 outputs. all the splitting ratios on average.

In my experience on the field FDT is simply a unit which contains a splitter. The distribution of the services on the ports start from here.

The Splitter is a main fiber optic passive component in FTTH, it be achieve to split the fiber signal on a fiber to 128 subscribers (max.). The FDT like a house to hold the splitter, fiber cable and adapter, then shelter for them.

Capacity and scalability are the biggest advantages. FDTs come in different sizes and capacities, depending on the number of homes or users they need to serve. They are also designed to be scalable, allowing for additional connections as more homes are added to the network.

The optical splitter offers numerous advantages: 1) Elimination of Multiple Cables from the CO 2) Compact Size 3) Compatibility 4) Ease of Operation and Maintenance 5) Scalability 6) Power is not needed.

1- the capacity of the FDT: depending on the actual number of fibre optic connections required and the possibility of future expansion. 2- check with the SFP modular type onto the OLT device at the CO, then select the splitting ratios of splitter for FDT.