What is a Splitter Box? Uses, types, & buying guide

Introduction

One-to-one electrical or network connections have become redundant in today’s fast-paced world. Constructing multiple transmission channels to relay the same data from the source to the receiver just doesn’t make sense. It increases resource utilisation and leads to signal interference and slowed network output. While switches and mixers are prevalent, they do not offer the desired efficiency or feasibility for multifaceted use cases. This is where splitters step in as the saviour! 

Since these are the most critical network components, learning in-depth can help you in dire times. That being said, we have further explored what is splitter box, its working mechanism, its use cases, and the differences between passive and active arrangements. To top it all, we have also outlined a brief buying guide to help you find the most compatible product from the lot. 

What is a splitter?

As the name implies, a splitter is a special circuit arrangement that divides a single input into multiple outputs. For example, it can stream a video signal from a single source and display it in multiple appliances connected at the outputs. What sets it apart from other similar components is the unaltered signal quality received at every output point. There is no compromise in signal latency, transmission speed, or quality. 

What is a splitter box?

People often get confused about what is splitter box. So, before going into the fine details, let’s have an answer for this! It’s nothing but an externally mounted box that is connected to a signal source and multiple receivers. 

How does a splitter box work?

A splitter box has a straightforward and easy-to-understand working principle. It takes in a signal input from a specific source and then splits the power. This happens in a specific proportion depending on how many output devices or receivers are connected. For example, if there are two output sources, the input power of the signal will be split in half, with each being transmitted to individual ports. Similarly, if there are four receivers, the power supplied will be a quarter of that of the input signal.

Where are splitter boxes used?

Electrical splitter boxes

1. An electric splitter box is employed to distribute proportionate power to multiple devices or circuits connected to the output port. 
2. Such boxes often contain fuses and circuit breakers to prevent electrical mishaps, especially overloading and short circuits. 
3. They can be used in:
   1. Providing power to the tools and equipment units used at construction sites
   2. Running multiple factory or manufacturing machines on a single power source
   3. Supplying electricity to sound equipment, stage lights, and other components at concerts

AV (audio/ video) splitter boxes

1. These splitter boxes enable multiple output devices to share a single input audio or video signal. 
2. A few use cases of AV splitters are:
   1. Broadcasting studios send signals to multiple recording booths
   2. Streaming videos on various TVs at home using a single HDMI media input
   3. Displaying videos or playing audio on multiple screens at retail stores in complete synchronisation

 Network splitter boxes

1. Such a splitter box is meant to eliminate network clutter by distributing an Ethernet connection to multiple devices. 
2. Network splitters are mainly used for:
   1. Supplying a consistent internet connection to multiple PCs connected to a single port at the offices
   2. Managing data transmission efficiently on various servers at data centres
   3. Allowing users to access smart devices from various devices using a single Ethernet connection

Optical fibre splitter boxes

1. These eliminate any significant signal loss while ensuring that fibre optic signals are supplied to multiple receivers from a single input source.
2. They have found extensive use in:
   1. Distributing fibre optic internet to residential homes from a single data server
   2. Delivering a high-speed internet connection to multiple devices

Difference between passive and active fiber splitters

Features	Passive fibre splitters	Active fibre splitters
Power requirements	No need for an external power source	An external power source will be needed for operations
Functionality	Splits the incoming signals	Splits and amplifies the input signals
Components	Optical splitters and couplers	Electronic components like switches and amplifiers
Signal loss	Higher signal loss due to passive splitting	Lower signal loss that is further compensated through signal amplification
Maintenance	Low maintenance	Higher maintenance
Costs	Cheaper	Costlier due to electronic components
Reliability	Very high	Low

 

How to choose the correct splitter box?

Number of outputs

1. Select a splitter box that matches the desired output requirements based on the devices to be handled. Standard market configurations include 1:2, 1:4, 1:8, 1:16, and so on. 
2. Some appliances or devices may require even splitting or optical splitters. On the contrary, you will need RF splitters for uneven signal splitting. 

Signal or power compatibility

1. The splitter box should be compatible with the signal voltage and frequency as per the input source. The use of an incompatible component will eventually lead to signal quality degradation. 
2. Ensure the chosen product matches the signal type to be split and transmitted. 

Quality and durability

1. High-grade plastic, aluminum, and metal splitter boxes have the best build quality. 
2. Check if the connectors are gold-plated for better signal transmission and reduced risks of corrosion. 
3. For outside boxes, ensure they have weather-proof casing. 

Signal loss and interference 

1. Metal enclosures and other forms of protectors help reduce EMI in the splitter boxes. So, try to get such a product for yourself.
2. Check the splitter box’s loss factor to determine if the signals transmitted will be adequate for the connected devices. 

Best splitter boxes on the market

Conclusion 

Knowing what a splitter box is and its classifications will give you an upper hand in making the right choice. Although there are countless options, checking certain factors like build quality, loss factor, signal compatibility, and voltage ensures zero errors. So, invest in a product that will help transmit signals without much power loss to the connected devices. 

FAQs

In what way is a junction box different from a splitter box?

To protect electrical circuits from corrosion or unwanted damages, you can invest in a junction box. On the contrary, a splitter box distributes the incoming signal across the multiple connected output devices. 

Can I use a splitter box for high-power applications?

Only active splitters are capable of supplying high power to the connected devices through signal amplification.

How does an HDMI splitter differ from an AV switch?

An AV switch allows you to select which of the connected output appliances will receive the signal from the input source. On the other hand, an HDMI splitter duplicates the input signal and transmits the same to all the connected output devices.

Do network splitters affect internet speed?

If the network splitter has a high loss factor, the internet speed will be reduced due to EMI and transient data loss.