Why Pluggable 100g Single-Lambda Optics Are Right For Networks?

While many 100G fiber optical network modules are already available in the market, more advanced and high-performance 100G fiber optics are being introduced in the market to reduce the overall cost and obtain higher transmission efficiency. One great example of such an optical network module is the 100G Single-Lambda Optics transceiver module.

In this article, you will learn in-depth about 100G single-lambda optics and why this optical network module is better than its optical network counterparts.

What does 100G Single-Lambda mean?

100G Single-Lambda is nothing but an optical specification using PAM4 signaling to transfer 100G data streams through a single laser or wavelength. Here, PAM4 means 4-level pulse amplitude modulation. It was first established and standardized by the 100G Lambda MSA (Multi-Source Agreement) consortium, which focuses on providing a new set of optical interface specifications for 100G and 400G applications.

The specifications given by 100G Lambda-MSA are defined based on the data rate of 100Gbps to offer a cost-effective solution for high-density multi-terabit switching, routing, and transport networks. With this specification, transceivers use 100G PAM4 signaling at 100G per wavelength. With this, the overall optical complexity and cost have been reduced due to the reduced number of optical transmitters and receivers from 4 to 1.

What is the difference between 100G Single-Lambda Optics and Regular 100G QSFP28?

Simpler Structure:
The 100GBASE-DR, 100GBASE-FR (100G-FR), and 100GBASE-LR (100G-LR) fall under the category of single-lambda 100G optics. These transceivers receive four 25G electrical signals from the host machine and convert them to PAM4 modulation via a DSP. In other words, a single laser can handle and transmit the entire 100G data stream. Unlike 100G QSFP28 modules, 100G Single-Lambda modules eliminate the need for WDM or parallel fiber, reducing the number of optical components required.

Longer Distance of Transmission:
The 100G QSFP28 DR was designed for a transmission distance of 500 meters, while the 100G Lambda MSA allows 100G FR to reach up to 2 km. This capability means you can use 100G Single-Lambda modules for longer links and infrastructure. With 100GBASE-LR, the MSA extends transmission coverage to 10 km, supporting the same applications as the 100G QSFP28 modules.

More Cost-Effective:
The 100G single-lambda design not only simplifies optical components but also reduces their quantity. Consequently, 100G Single-Lambda modules provide cheaper 100G links. According to the IEEE, the ability to support 100G per lambda (wavelength) can lower the cost of 100GE optical signals by at least 40 percent with a single optical path. This reduction occurs because the system switches from using four wavelengths to just one.

Can 100G Single-Lambda Support 400G?
There is no straightforward Yes or No answer. As data traffic continues to grow, demand increases for more cost-effective pluggable optical modules in high-speed and high-density applications like 200G and 400G. Implementing 100G Single-Lambda modules simplifies the transition to 200G and 400G. Additionally, it reduces the internal complexity of 400G modules, facilitating the advancement of 100G Ethernet to high data rates up to 400G. Furthermore, this approach also decreases the number of fibers needed, ultimately saving more money.

Why are 100G Single-Lambda Optics Modules a Better Choice for Networks?

There are many advantages of using pluggable 100G Single-Lambda optics modules, such as simplified structure, higher cost savings, and longer transmission distance.

QSFP28 100G FR pluggable transceivers signal a major shift in the 100G pluggable optics industry. In the past, users considered SFP+ optical modules advanced, with fewer and simpler options. Their primary function converts electrical signals into optical signals and vice versa.

As network bandwidth demand increased, so did the need for higher data rates. IEEE and SF introduced technologies that went beyond faster lasers and photo-receivers. Current standards now include WDM, parallel fiber, CTLE, and FEC, which add complexity and raise both hardware and operational costs.

Future network demands will push 100G optics to become as common and affordable as today’s 10G SFP+ modules. However, the complexity of 100G presents challenges. This need for innovation brings pluggable 100G Single-Lambda Optics into focus.

The 100G Lambda MSA, led by Cisco optics experts, standardized single-lambda 100G specifications. They aimed to create cost-effective solutions for high-density, multi-terabit switching, routing, and transport networks. Earlier 100G modules used NRZ (non-return to zero), a two-level binary modulation format. In contrast, 100G single-lambda optics utilize PAM4, which doubles the data without increasing component speed. The same technology that supports 50G with NRZ can now handle 100G using PAM4.

A single laser can transmit the entire 100G data stream, eliminating the need for WDM or parallel fiber.

Looking for Cisco 100G fiber optics modules? IT Networks offers a wide range of Cisco 100G transceivers with various specifications to meet diverse network needs.