When wiring your audio or video system, there will be occasions when you want to have a single source (cable) supplying two or more outlet devices. Rather than run two cables or modify your equipment, you can use a cable splitter. While the name may indicate work is required, a cable splitter is a very simple device. The hardest part is determining what type to use, and when.
Function
A cable splitter's sole function is to allow multiple devices to receive a signal from a single supply source. Example: You want to have a DVD player hooked up to two television sets at the same time. Since there is only one outlet port on the DVD player, you will need insert a cable splitter. In this case you would use a two-way splitter. One side of the splitter would have a single coaxial port. This is your input. On the opposite side you will have two coaxial ports. These are your outputs, which will go to your television sets.
Installation Tips
Depending on your situation, you will want to run a single coaxial cable as far as possible before installing the cable splitter. This will save on installation time as well as reduce the amount of cable needed for the job. You will also want to make certain all of the coaxial cable connections are secure. A loose connection can produce a weak signal to your output device.
Limits
You will want to keep the number of cable splitters used to an absolute minimum. With each cable splitter, you will lose signal strength. In some cases you can lose up to 50 percent of your signal, so keep this in mind when laying out your system. In certain cases, you will need to amplify the signal. This is done with an AC power source, which will boost the signal to each device.
Types
There are several types of cable splitters. In the area of coaxial splitters you can purchase a two-, four- or eight-way splitter. Other splitters with varying output ports are available but are mostly used for special applications. A second type of splitter is refereed to as a "topless" splitter. These splitters have screw connections that can be used to connect speaker wires and other audio equipment. These, too, are available in a variety of configurations offering varying output ports depending on your application.
Performance
As with most types of electrical equipment, there are different levels of performance when it comes to cable splitters. As mentioned, you can lose signal strength when splitting a cable to two or more devices. The higher quality the cable splitter, the higher your signal strength will be to each device. If you are mounting any of the splitters outdoors, make certain they are rated for outdoor use, and you may want to consider installing them where they will be somewhat protected from the elements.
Tags: cable splitter, cable splitter, cable splitters, signal strength, coaxial cable
