Overview of 16G CWDM SFP+ Transceivers
16G CWDM SFP+ (Coarse Wavelength Division Multiplexing Small Form-factor Pluggable Plus) transceivers are a powerful solution for scaling Storage Area Network (SAN) infrastructure without the high cost of laying additional fiber. These modules combine the high-speed 16G Fibre Channel (16GFC) protocol with CWDM technology. In short, this allows you to transmit multiple, independent 16GFC data streams over a single pair of single-mode fibers.
Furthermore, the system works by using a series of transceivers, each operating on a different, specific wavelength (color) of light. These wavelengths are then combined onto one fiber using a passive CWDM Mux/Demux unit. At the other end, a second Mux/Demux separates the wavelengths back into individual channels. Consequently, you can consolidate up to 18 separate 16GFC links, dramatically increasing the bandwidth of your existing fiber plant. These modules also maintain backward compatibility with 8GFC and 4GFC, making them perfect for phased SAN upgrades.
Key Features and Benefits
Our 16G CWDM SFP+ modules are engineered to provide maximum SAN scalability and cost-efficiency. Indeed, their benefits are essential for growing data center environments.
- Massive Bandwidth Expansion: First and foremost, transmit up to 18 independent 16GFC channels over a single fiber pair, achieving an aggregate bandwidth of over 250 Gbps.
- Cost-Effective Network Scaling: Avoid the significant expense and logistical challenges of installing new fiber cables by maximizing the capacity of your existing ones.
- Full 16GFC Protocol Support: Operates at the 14.025 Gbps line rate for 16GFC and is fully backward compatible with 8GFC and 4GFC speeds.
- Passive and Reliable: The required CWDM Mux/Demux units are passive components that require no power, leading to a highly reliable, low-maintenance solution.
* Wide Range of Wavelengths: We offer modules covering all 18 standard CWDM channels from 1270nm to 1610nm (in 20nm increments).
Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Form Factor | SFP+ |
| Technology | CWDM |
| Protocol | Fibre Channel (FC) |
| Max Data Rate | 14.025 Gbps (16GFC) |
| Supported Rates | 8.5 Gbps (8GFC), 4.25 Gbps (4GFC) |
| Wavelengths | 18 Channels (1270nm – 1610nm in 20nm steps) |
| Max Distance | Up to 40km (contact us for extended reach) |
| Fiber Type | Single-Mode Fiber (SMF) |
| Connector | Duplex LC |
FAQ (Technical & product category Questions)
1. What else do I need to build a 16G CWDM link?
Besides the CWDM SFP+ modules themselves, you need two CWDM Mux/Demux units (one for each end) with the corresponding channel ports for your chosen wavelengths. You will also need standard single-mode patch cords to connect the transceivers to the Mux/Demux.
2. Can I mix 16GFC and 10G Ethernet CWDM channels on the same fiber?
Yes, this is a major advantage of CWDM. As long as each channel uses a unique wavelength, the protocol does not matter. For example, you can run eight channels of 16GFC and eight channels of 10G Ethernet over the same fiber pair using a 16-channel Mux/Demux.
3. Do I need a special CWDM SFP+ for each wavelength?
Yes. Each CWDM SFP+ module is manufactured to operate on one specific, fixed wavelength. For example, to use the 1470nm channel on your Mux/Demux, you must install a 1470nm 16G CWDM SFP+ module in your switch.
4. What is the difference between 16G CWDM and 16G DWDM?
The main differences are channel spacing and density. CWDM uses wider spacing (20nm), which allows for up to 18 channels and uses less expensive, uncooled lasers. DWDM (Dense WDM) uses much narrower spacing (typically 0.8nm), allowing for 40, 80, or even more channels, but it requires more expensive, temperature-stabilized lasers.
5. Are your 16G CWDM SFP+ modules compatible with Cisco MDS or Brocade switches?
Absolutely. We program our modules to be 100% compatible with the host equipment. Simply tell us the make and model of the SAN switch you are using, and we will ensure you receive a fully compliant transceiver.
