Increasing Bandwidth With Coarse Wavelength Division Multiplexing (CWDM)
Coarse wavelength division multiplexing (CWDM) is ideal for increasing bandwidth on existing optical fiber networks. It can help ease fiber exhaust problems, and it’s also cheaper than DWDM systems and requires less power.
CWDM is especially well-suited for metro and regional networks, where traffic growth is moderate. It’s also an excellent choice for point-to-point applications and interconnecting data centers.
Cost-Effective
CWDM technology allows network operators to add capacity without having to lay additional fiber optic cables. This is especially useful in areas where the existing infrastructure has been overburdened or if it is too expensive to lay new fiber. It is commonly used in metropolitan area networks and access networks, as well as in data centers.
A common use case for CWDM is to provide high-capacity connections between data centers. These connections can be a cost-effective solution to increasing bandwidth, and they can help reduce the need for expensive amplifiers. Moreover, CWDM systems are more energy-efficient than other multiplexing technologies. This makes them ideal for telecommunications companies seeking to lower their operational costs and reduce environmental impact.
There is a lot of pent-up demand for a way to increase bandwidth over long distances without having to lay more fiber. CWDM has cwdm come of age as an answer, but the question remains: How much does it really save?
Light Reading recently partnered with OFS and Transmode to analyze the cost of CWDM and DWDM solutions in several different scenarios. Their results showed that CWDM is significantly cheaper than DWDM over the same length of fiber, and can even save money in longer distances. This is because CWDM systems require fewer components and can be easily deployed. Moreover, CWDM switches can be upgraded with a single 18-channel CWDM Mux/DeMux to extend the fiber capacity of your existing infrastructure.
High Data Capacity
CWDM technology is cost-effective and scalable when it comes to expanding optical fiber network capacity. Its wide channel spacing allows for lower-cost components and simpler infrastructure. In contrast, Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing (DWDM) requires more sophisticated and expensive equipment. As a result, DWDM is more costly when it comes to upgrading existing networks and adding new services.
Both CWDM and DWDM technologies offer high data capacity, but there are a few key differences between them. CWDM is more flexible and compact, but it is not ideal for configurations that require spectral efficiency or long-distance transmission. Additionally, CWDM signals cannot be amplified for distances greater than 80km.
In contrast, DWDM can be boosted for longer distances and supports more channels than CWDM. In addition, DWDM signal transmission is more efficient at higher speeds. This makes DWDM the best choice for applications that require high-speed data transfers over long distances.
CWDM is often used in metropolitan area networks and access networks to extend the reach of optical connections. It is also used in data centers to increase bandwidth capacity and facilitate data transfer between devices. For example, CWDM can be used to transmit live video feeds from remote locations to a central data center, or to send valuable analytics to electrical grid control systems.
Easy to Set Up
CWDM systems are simple to set up and maintain. The system combines data streams data center into distinct wavelengths that are then transmitted over the fiber cable. The signals are then separated using a CWDM demultiplexer at the other end of the network, which sends them to their correct receivers. This reduces the number of signal-to-signal transmissions in the network and increases bandwidth.
Choosing the right type of cwdm equipment is important. There are two types: active and passive. Active cwdm devices include muxes and transponders, while passive cwdm equipment includes converters and repeaters. Both are suitable for a wide range of applications. Passive cwdm devices require no programming and are a good option for smaller networks. Active cwdm devices, however, offer more functionality and can be used to connect multiple switches and routers in a single location.
To start setting up a cwdm system, prepare the fiber cables. Use a power meter and optical spectrum analyzer to test the system to ensure that it meets all environmental specifications. Once the cables are connected, insert CWDM GBICs into the appropriate ports on your switching module. When removing the GBIC, be sure to use a tool that can handle the pressure of the plastic tabs. Once the GBICs are removed, be careful not to touch or stare directly into the open apertures.
Easy to Maintain
CWDM is an attractive option for metro networks that require additional bandwidth. Compared to dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM), CWDM offers more channels on one fiber strand. It’s also a cost-effective alternative to deploying more fiber optic cables. Moreover, CWDM is easily upgradeable to DWDM. Charles has a comprehensive selection of CWDM components and can help you choose the right system for your needs.
Depending on your network configuration, a CWDM MUX-DEMUX system can support up to eight different channels. Typically, CWDM modules feature two upgrade ports to accommodate future bandwidth requirements. The expansion ports support 1310nm SFP /SFP+ / SFP28 and 10Gbps SFP transceivers.
To install a CWDM system, first, install a chassis in your network switch. Next, install the CWDM system shelf and CWDM OADM plug-in modules on it. Once everything is in place, connect the CWDM GBICs installed on your switch to the CWDM MUX-DEMUX modules using CWDM SFP transceivers.
Keep in mind that GBICs are static sensitive, so it’s important to follow proper board and component handling procedures. Ensure that the optical bores are clean by wiping them with an alcohol swab. It is also a good idea to use a grounding wrist strap to avoid ESD damage. Also, make sure to keep the GBICs in their protective packaging until you need them.