In this era of rapid growth in data traffic, 100G QSFP28 optical modules have undoubtedly become a hot topic. Among the many types of 100G optical modules, two multimode duplex transceivers stand out: QSFP-100G-SRBD and QSFP-100G-SWDM4. So which of these two optical modules is more suitable for your needs? Let’s take a deep look at them together to provide more information for your choice.
Definition of 100G SWDM4
The 100GBASE-SWDM4 optical module uses SWDM (Short Wavelength Division Multiplexing) technology to realize the combination and division of wavelength through MUX/DMUX and transmit optical signals in four bands on a core multimode fiber. The four bands are available at 850nm, 880nm, 910nm, and 940nm, and can transmit distances of up to 150 meters when used with OM5 multimode fiber (up to 70 meters/100 meters when used with OM3-300/OM4 fiber patch cords).
Definition of 100G SRBD
The 100GBASE-SRBD optical module transmits wavelengths of 850nm and 900nm and uses SWDM wavelength division multiplexing technology to multiplex 20G optical signals of different wavelengths in the same optical fiber for transmission. The transmission distance is 70 meters when used with OM3 multimode fiber and 100 meters when used with OM4 multimode fiber.
What do 100G SWDM4 and 100G SRBD Have in Common?
Both are widely used in high-speed network connectivity in data centers, especially in scenarios that require short-distance, high-bandwidth transmission. Because they both use duplex LC interfaces and WDM technology, they have an advantage over traditional SR4 optical transceivers when upgrading existing networks, especially from 10G or 25G networks to 100G networks, as SR4 requires the use of MPO interfaces and more fibers.
Performance comparison between 100G SWDM4 and 100G SRBD
| Data Rate | QSFP-100G-SWDM4 | QSFP-100G-SRBD |
| Wavelength | 850nm, 880nm, 910nm, 940nm | 850 nm / 900 nm |
| Optical Budget | 3 dBm | 1.9 dBm |
| Data Rate | 103.125 Gbps | 41.25-103.125 Gbps |
| Form Type | QSFP28 | |
| Connector | Duplex LC | |
| Cable Type | MMF | |
| Max Cable Distance | 150m(OM5), 100m(OM4), 70m (OM3) | |
| Laser | VSCEL | |
| Power Consumption | ≤3.5W | |
| DDM/DOM | Supported | |
| Commercial Temperature Range | 0℃ to 70℃ (32 to 158°F) | |
| Protocols | Class 1 FDA, IEC60825-1 Laser Safety Compliant, IEEE 802.3bm, RoHS-6, CE, QSFP28 MSA, SFF-8636, SFF-8665 | 100GBASE SR-BiDi, IEC60825-1 Laser Safety Compliant, IEEE 802.3bm, SFF-8419, CE, QSFP28 MSA, RoHS, SFF-8636 |
100G SWDM4 vs. 100G SRBD: Transmission rate
100G-SRBD: 70 meters for OM3 fiber, up to 100 meters for OM4 and possibly longer for OM5. 100G-SWDM4: OM3 fiber 70 meters, OM4 up to 100 meters, OM5 up to 150 meters.
100G SWDM4 vs. 100G SRBD: Cost
The cost of optical modules is a big problem, let’s take a look at which is more cost-effective, 100G SRBD or 100G SWDM4. From the point of view of manufacturing optical modules themselves, the technical complexity of SRBD production may be slightly higher, and the cost will be higher. The SWDM4 multiplexing technology reduces costs, has a wide range of market applications, and has strong competitiveness. From the perspective of fiber infrastructure, SRBD uses single-fiber bidirectional technology, which saves fiber and makes it more cost-effective to upgrade existing networks. While SWDM4 multiplexing technology is highly efficient, longer distances or higher rates require more fiber.
100G SWDM4 vs. 100G SRBD: Applications
If you are in a data center and have short-distance, high-density cabling: SRBD optical transceiver is your helper, which can transmit data in both directions, save fiber, and have simple cabling. Especially suitable for data centers that have already been cabled and want to upgrade the bandwidth? It’s the right choice!
If you are connected to a long-distance or complex network, then SWDM4 transceiver is more suitable for you!
100G SWDM4 vs. 100G SRBD: Upgrades and Compatibility
SWDM4 is available in QSFP28 packages, but SRBD is available in both QSFP28 and QSFP compliant packages. From this point of view, SRBD is more compatible. Already have a multimode fiber network? SRBD allows you to save money and worry, just upgrade directly. Want to expand your network in the future? SWDM4 is more flexible, technologically advanced, and adaptable.
Summary
Therefore, which transceiver to choose depends on your specific needs. Hopefully, this information will help you make an informed choice! Mvslink is an optical transceiver factory with 11 years of production and operation, we have first-class production lines and professional technical support, please feel free to contact us if you need any light products!
