10G BiDi SFP+ Transceivers Modules

Overview of 10G BiDi SFP+ Modules

10G BiDi SFP+ (Bidirectional Small Form-factor Pluggable) modules are specialized optical transceivers that transmit and receive data over a single strand of fiber. In short, they are a game-changer for networks where fiber is limited or expensive. A standard transceiver uses one fiber for transmitting and a second fiber for receiving. However, a BiDi module uses two different wavelengths of light. Therefore, it can send and receive data simultaneously on just one fiber core. This effectively doubles the usable capacity of your existing fiber optic cable plant.

Furthermore, this technology relies on Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM). Each BiDi module is part of a matched pair. For instance, one module (Side A) will transmit on 1270nm and receive on 1330nm. Its partner module (Side B) at the other end of the link will do the opposite, transmitting on 1330nm and receiving on 1270nm. Consequently, this allows for a full-duplex 10Gbps connection over a single fiber. As a result, deploying BiDi SFP+ modules is one of the most cost-effective ways to alleviate fiber exhaustion and scale your network.

Key Features and Applications

Our 10G BiDi SFP+ modules are designed for reliability and seamless integration. Indeed, their unique design offers compelling advantages.

• Double Fiber Capacity: First and foremost, their single-fiber operation instantly doubles the capacity of your existing fiber infrastructure without laying new cables.
• Significant Cost Savings: In addition, using half the amount of fiber and patch cords reduces overall material and installation costs.
• Matched Wavelength Pairs: They are sold in specific Tx/Rx wavelength pairs (e.g., 1270nm/1330nm) to ensure a stable and reliable connection.
• Simplex LC Connector: BiDi modules use a Simplex LC connector, as they only require a single fiber connection.
• Broad Compatibility: Because they are MSA-compliant, our modules ensure plug-and-play operation with equipment from all major network vendors.

Common Applications:

• Service providers (ISPs) expanding customer connections over a limited fiber network.
• Data centers connecting switches where fiber pathways are congested.
• Campus or enterprise networks needing to upgrade link capacity without the cost of new fiber installation.

Specifications

FAQ (Technical & product category Questions)

1. What does “BiDi” mean?

BiDi stands for Bidirectional. It means the transceiver can both transmit (send) and receive data over a single optical fiber, whereas standard transceivers need two separate fibers for this.

2. Can I connect a BiDi SFP+ module to a standard 10G SFP+ module?

No. BiDi modules must always be deployed in matched pairs. The module on one end of the link must have complementary transmit and receive wavelengths to the module on the other end. They cannot communicate with standard, dual-fiber modules.

3. How do I know I’m buying a matched pair?

BiDi modules are typically designated as “Upstream” (U) and “Downstream” (D). For example, a pair might be SFP-10G-BX-U and SFP-10G-BX-D. The “U” module transmits at 1270nm and receives at 1330nm, while the “D” module does the opposite. You must have one of each to create a link.

4. Do I need a special type of fiber for BiDi modules?

No. You can use a single strand of standard single-mode fiber (SMF). This is one of the main advantages, as you can repurpose existing fiber cables.

5. Why does a BiDi module have a Simplex LC connector?

Since the module sends and receives light over a single fiber core, it only needs a single connection point. A Simplex LC connector is designed for a single fiber strand, unlike the Duplex LC connector used on standard transceivers which connects to two fibers.