A splitter, also known as a splitter or splitter, is a compact, extremely practical device that increases the number of sockets, enabling simultaneous powering of several electrical devices from one source. There are several main types of splitters, differing in their purpose and, consequently, in their design solutions and functionality. The most popular are electrical, antenna, HDMI and USB splitters. Wondering which splitter to choose for your project? A comprehensive guide prepared by Onninen specialists will help you make the right decision. We invite you to read!
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What should you consider when choosing an electric splitter?
An electrical splitter resembles an electrical extension cord or a surge protector with multiple sockets. It plays the same role - it increases the number of available sockets in your house, apartment or office. In its traditional form, it does not have a cable. It is plugged directly into the socket. The specific design offers a maximum of 4 sockets. Their larger number would cause the distributor to fall out of contact. The choice of an electrical splitter should be adapted to the number and requirements of receivers, i.e. devices that you want to connect to the network at the same time. Consider:
- how many sockets do you need - it is best to have 1-2 sockets more than necessary at a given moment;
- what type of sockets you need - look at the plugs of the devices you want to connect to the installation at the same time;
- what shape will be optimal - it's about the comfort of using the splitter in tighter corners.
You can choose from splitters with various types of sockets, both for flat plugs and those equipped with a grounding pin. In addition to traditional 230V sockets, a modern splitter may have additional USB inputs that accept connectors of a given type. A USB splitter is extremely useful at computer workstations and in areas with TVs.
Other parameters worth paying attention to when choosing an electric splitter are:
- main switch - "flick" allows you to quickly cut off the power supply to all connected equipment and restore power again;
- grounding - using such a distributor is safer for your devices;
- surge filter – the solution provides protection against voltage spikes;
- cable parameters - this applies to models equipped with a cable (the more energy-consuming the device, the shorter the cable should be, and in the case of large household appliances, it is best to abandon intermediate solutions altogether and connect the equipment directly to the electrical network);
- IP protection level - you should purchase a splitter adapted to specific environmental conditions, e.g. the IP20 model is not water resistant, so it is only suitable for indoor use.
Will an active or passive antenna splitter be better?
In older buildings, it is standard that only one antenna cable comes out from one antenna. You will rarely see more exits. Unless the apartment or house has undergone a general renovation. If you want to send the TV signal to more TV receivers, you need to purchase a special antenna splitter (also known as an antenna splitter or splitter). A clever, cheap device affects the functionality and comfort of using TVs by individual household members. By dividing the signal between several screens, you can watch your favorite movies and programs on every TV in your home or apartment - without having to break down walls or buy additional antennas or DVB T decoders. All you need is one antenna, one decoder and one decent antenna splitter. . A single input on the device allows connection to a TV socket on the wall (TV signal output). The market offers a variety of multiswitches. Which antenna splitter should I choose?
Start by determining how many screens you want your antenna to be divided into, now and in the future. On store shelves you will find splitters designed for both one TV and more than one receiver. It is worth remembering that attenuation may occur when many receivers are connected.
Another important dilemma concerns the choice of the type of distributor. You can choose an active or passive antenna splitter. The active splitter is a variant with an amplifier, more expensive to purchase and operate. The use of an amplifier allows you to maintain an excellent signal while watching TV - without any trace of interference. The amplifier must be powered from the mains, i.e. connected to electricity. Without power it will not work. The active splitter allows you to compensate for signal division losses and cable attenuation. If you don't care about the amplifier, you can opt for a simpler passive splitter. However, be prepared for some compromise in terms of signal (image) quality. However, you will pay less for a passive splitter than for an active one.
The distributor itself is not everything. Other factors also influence the signal quality, such as the antenna-receiver distance. The longer the distance signals have to travel, the greater the risk of loss. The signal quality also depends largely on the correct arrangement of the cables. You should also take a look at the antenna, including: its orientation towards the transmitter. Too much information? If in doubt, consult a specialist. Onninen experts provide remote technical support.
It is worth knowing that watching TV programs on several receivers at the same time is different in the case of TV-SAT and VOD platforms. Satellite television and VOD operators offer, usually with the customer's consent and an additional fee, the so-called multiroom service.
How long should an electrical splitter be?
As we mentioned earlier, a standard electrical splitter does not have a cord. It plugs directly into the socket. However, if you buy a variant with a cable (i.e., in fact, an electric extension cord, a power strip or a surge protector), take into account that the cable should be fully unwound during operation. Avoid choosing extension cords that are too long because the voltage decreases as the length increases. Moreover, cables getting tangled under your feet are neither comfortable nor aesthetic.
How to choose the right HDMI splitter?
When the number of HDMI ports on a monitor or TV is insufficient, an HDMI splitter comes to the rescue. This type of splitter is used to connect several source devices to one screen. When choosing an HDMI splitter, you should pay attention primarily to its quality. It should support Full HD resolution and offer all the functions a user needs. The safest solution is to choose a solution from a well-known manufacturer of TV equipment.
Splitters at the Onninen wholesaler
In the Onninen electrical wholesaler you will find various types of splitters, extension cords, protective strips and many other products from the residential, office and electronics equipment category. We offer electrical installation equipment only from proven manufacturers and suppliers. We cooperate with brands such as F-Elektro and Orno .