DWDM Mux/Demux: A Quick Look at Everything, Features to Applications

Wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) is a kind of technology, commonly used in optical communications. It works by combing multiple wavelengths to transmit signals on a single fiber. CWDM and DWDM mux/demux are the essential part of this process.

WDM mux and demux have several different ports, each with a different function to perform.  We will discuss each of them, looking at their applications.

A Sneak Peak into Ports on WDM MUX/DEMUX

There are five major ports used on the MUX/DIMUX. Have a detailed look at each of them below.

Line Port

Sometimes, also called common port, this is the one of the most important ports that must be on CWDM and DWDM Mux/Demux. It helps to connect the outside fibers often marked as Tx and Rx to the Mux/Demux unit. All the WDM channels are multiplexed and demultiplexed over this port.

Channel Port

Channel port is another must-have port, which transmits and receives signals on specific WDM wavelengths. Because of this port, CWDM Mux/Demux can support up to 18 channels from 1270nm to 1610nm with a channel space of 20nm. While DWDM Mux/Demux uses wavelengths anything between 1470nm and 1625nm, services or circuits can be added in any order to the Mux/Demux unit.

Monitor Port

This port on CWDM and DWDM Mux/Demux helps test the dB level of the signal. And the best thing about the port is that service is not interrupted during the signal test, which provides users with the ability to monitor and troubleshoot networks. If your Mux/Demux is a sing-fiber unit, use the monitor port which is simplex one.

Expansion Port

This port aims to expand more wavelengths or channels to the network. Connecting the expansion port with the line port of another Mux/Demux supporting different wavelengths, you can increase the network capacity. However, not every WDM Mux/Demux has an expansion port.

1310nm and 1550nm Port

These are wavelengths ports that enable optical transceivers, especially the CWDM and DWDM SFP/SFP+ transceiver to support long runs transmission. Using these ports, you can add 1310nm or 1550nm wavelengths into existing WDM networks by connecting with the same wavelength optical transceivers.

Application Cases of Different Ports on WDM MUX/DEMUX

While WDM Mux/Demux have many different ports, you do not need to use all of them at the same time. Here are some examples of their applications.

  • Use 8 Channels CWDM Mux/Demux with Monitor Port where two switches/routers are connected over CWDM wavelength 1511nm.
  • Achieve 500Gbps at Existing Fiber Network with 1310nm Port
  • Stack Two CWDM MUX/DEMUX Using Expansion Port

As we know different ports on the CWDM and DWDM Mux/Demux have different functions, you should buy DWDM Mux/Demux with ports that precisely meet your requirements. If you are looking for DWDM Mux/Demux for the best price, you can trust, DK Photonics – a leading supplier optical passive competent in China.