100G DWDM QSFP28 Modules

Why 100G DWDM QSFP28 Modules Are Crucial for High-Capacity Backbone Networks

100G DWDM QSFP28 modules utilize Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing technology to increase the number of data channels transmitted on a single fiber, greatly surpassing the number of transmit leads of CWDM or standard QSFP28 modules. By packing a number of wavelengths tightly together within a small spectrum, 100G DWDM QSFP28 modules offer a much greater density of fiber channels, helping backbone networks carry large amounts of data over long distances to meet modern telecom and metro requirements.
Compared to CWDM QSFP28, DWDM is capable of utilizing 40 or more channels per fiber, while CWDM is limited to around 8. This density serves DWDM in higher capacity with more scalability for large traffic on backbones, while standard QSFP28 takes up a fiber with a single channel, which means it wastes a lot of fiber on data streams.
Cost will come down when density goes up, as less physical fiber is needed for the same or greater capacity, therefore saving on physical infrastructure. From a performance perspective, 100G DWDM QSFP28 modules are engineered for long transmission distances (most exceed 80 km) and, with low latency performance, they provide the backbone with high speed and reliability.

Feature Comparison

Telecommunication and Metro Backbone Networks

Telecommunication and metro backbone networks can achieve the capacity and performance to support explosive data growth in a cost-effective and scalable way by utilizing 100G DWDM QSFP28 modules. These modules are a necessary part of a larger backbone infrastructure deployment in high-demand environments.

100G DWDM QSFP28 Technology Deep Dive and Buyer’s Selection Framework

100G DWDM QSFP28 modules use Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing (DWDM) to cluster different wavelength channels for transmission over one or multiple fiber strands. DWDM uses multiple closely spaced wavelengths in the C-band spectrum, typically from 1528 nm to 1565 nm for use in DWDM systems. Each wavelength is separated by either 50 GHz or 100 GHz, or whatever may fit within the bandwidth range. To ensure even higher speeds, one can utilize dozens (OC-48 and higher) of simultaneous high-speed data channels on one fiber. This is the most efficient use of fiber, and it provides an incredible amount of data capability for backbone networks. There are fixed-wavelength modules and tunable modules. Fixed-wavelength modules are assigned specific channels, while tunable modules have the ability for dynamic channel selection, taking better advantage of the wavelength spectrum and providing easier network upgrades without having to replace anything in the network.
Finally, unlike standard transceivers, DWDM optics require consideration of other spectral characteristics, such as narrow linewidth and wavelength stability, to minimize crosstalk and signal degradation. This is paramount to ensure high signal quality (low bit error rates) over long distances.

Parameter Overview

Buyer Considerations

Multiple components affect a buyer’s decision:

• Transmission distance: As you increase the distance, the power budget increases and occasionally will need external amplification.
• Number of channels: For networks requiring dense channel deployment, DWDM is superior to CWDM.
• Network topology: If you work with mesh, ring, or point-to-point networks, this could impact the type of modules you use as well as the wavelength assignment for your optics.
• Budget: Tunable lasers typically have a sizable premium but offer a future-proof option.

Simplified Selection Tree

• Do you really need more than 40 channels? If so, choose DWDM QSFP28.
• Do you need the flexibility to change wavelengths? If so, choose tunable DWDM modules.
• Are you planning for long-haul high-capacity links? If so, choose modules with long reach and support for amplification.
• Do you need dense channels but are on a budget? If so, choose fixed DWDM modules; they will give you far more density for far less cost.

Compatibility and Interoperability

Compatibility goes across many OEMs and third-party manufacturers, including leading players like Cisco, Juniper, Huawei, Arista, Dell, Nokia, Ciena, Infinera, Extreme Networks, and Brocade. Most of the players offer validated 100G DWDM QSFP28 modules supporting tunable or fixed wavelength modules, giving you more interoperability.

Vendor Product Summary

Compatibility Check

When determining the modules to select, be sure to check compatibility with your optical transport equipment. For example, DWDM MUX/DEMUX, ROADMs, and transponders, where compatibility with the following must be taken into account: firmware and hardware versions.
Planning enables an operator to manage channel allocations, power budgets, and provide assurance that the 100G DWDM QSFP28 modules are being used in the most effective way. Often, the 100G DWDM QSFP28 module will co-exist with existing CWDM or other non-DWDM optical systems. However, for a network operator, this co-existence allows layering services while maximizing network flexibility with regard to future upgrades.
Due to the tunability and channel density of DWDM QSFP28 technology, backbone networks will be able to scale. Capacity will reliably and efficiently meet the increasing demand for bandwidth.