Loss (dB) = 10 lg ( mW1 / mW2 ) When both gains are equal, the loss is 0 dB, so there is no loss (doesn't happen obviously). If we operate with absolute gains measured in relation to 1 milliwatt (mW), they are expressed in dBm, and are calculated as follows: Power Level. Optical splitters play a crucial role in Fiber to the Home (FTTH) Passive Optical Network (PON) systems, efficiently distributing a single optical signal to multiple destinations. The split ratio and insertion loss are two key parameters defining their performance. A deeper understanding of these. Use 2×N when two inputs feed the same distribution stage. Common values: 2, 4, 8, 16, 32, 64. Wavelength is recorded in outputs for documentation. 5 dB depending on splitter type. These are known as passive optical splitters, and they perform the function. Testing a splitter or other passive fiber optic devices like switches is little different from testing a patchcord or cable plant using the two industry standard tests, OFSTP-14 for double-ended loss (connectors on both ends) or FOTP-171 for single-ended testing. These are especially important for FTTH (Fiber to the Home), data centers, and Passive Optical Networks (PON), where. The formula for the theoretical loss for each output port of a splitter with N output ports is: Theoretical Split Loss (in dB) = 10 * log10 (N) Where: N is the number of output ports the splitter has (e., 2 for a 1x2 splitter, 4 for a 1x4, 8 for a 1x8, 32 for a 1x32, etc.