Can a splitter work if neither of its two components has a network connection

No, a standard Ethernet splitter cannot function if neither of its connected devices has a network connection, because it is a passive device that only routes existing signals.

How Ethernet Splitters Work

An Ethernet splitter is a passive device that does not generate or amplify network signals. It simply allows two separate Ethernet signals to share a single cable by using unused wire pairs in the cable. For it to work, there must be active network signals at one end, and a second splitter at the other end to separate the signals back out to devices or a router . Without any connected devices sending or receiving data, the splitter has nothing to route, so it effectively does nothing.

Limitations

• Passive operation: Splitters do not manage traffic, boost signals, or provide power. They rely entirely on the connected devices to generate network activity .
• Speed restrictions: Splitters are typically limited to 10/100 Mbps networks because they use only four of the eight wires in a standard Ethernet cable. They are not compatible with Gigabit Ethernet, which requires all eight wires .
• Two-splitter requirement: A single splitter alone cannot create a usable connection; one must be installed at each end of the cable run .

Comparison to Other Devices

Unlike a network switch or hub, which are active devices capable of managing and amplifying network traffic, a splitter cannot function independently. Similarly, a PoE splitter only separates power from data and still requires a powered network source to operate .

Conclusion

If neither of the two devices connected to a splitter has a network connection, the splitter will not work because it cannot generate or transmit signals on its own. For any functional network setup, at least one device must provide an active signal, or an active device like a switch must be used.