Distance
CWDM wavelength spacing is not suitable for signal amplification, so its range is limited compared to DWDM:
- CWDM is typically used for distances up to 80km (50 miles). It’s commonly used in short-haul, metropolitan or regional networks
- DWDM wavelengths can be amplified to support transmission distances of hundreds or thousands of kilometres. It’s ideal for regional or long-distance networks.
Cost
CWDM systems tend to be cheaper to set up and run than DWDM networks:
- CWDM’s “coarse” wavelength spacing typically requires fewer, simpler components than DWDM.
- DWDM uses more sophisticated laser equipment to control wavelengths more precisely and amplify signals for longer distances.
Although the price difference between CWDM and DWDM equipment has narrowed, CWDM systems can be cheaper to install per kilometre than DWDM deployments.
What is CWDM suitable for?
CWDM is a low-cost, relatively high-capacity optical networking solution that’s ideal for a range of networks over shorter distances. Here are some common use cases for CWDM solutions:
Metro access networks
CWDM is often used to interconnect multiple locations in a city or metropolitan area. It’s a cost-effective technology for metro access networks or metropolitan area networks.
ISP connectivity
Internet service providers (ISPs) may use CWDM over passive optical networks to provide fibre to the premises – the “last mile” supplying ultrafast broadband to homes and businesses. In addition, ISPs may deploy CWDM to transmit data between their data centres or points of presence (PoPs).
Enterprise networks
For businesses, CWDM provides a low-cost way to interconnect different offices or data centres in a local area. For example, it can provide scalable connectivity across a business park, city or region.
Data centres
Data centre businesses require high-capacity, low-latency links between storage systems. With CWDM, they can reduce the number of fibres needed while maintaining sufficient bandwidth.
Video distribution
Broadcasters and streaming services can use CWDM to transmit multiple channels of ultra-high-definition content over a single fibre. Similarly, CWDM may be suitable for interconnecting local video surveillance systems.
Overall, CWDM offers a simple way to increase your fibre network’s capacity using existing infrastructure. However, DWDM can give you far more channels, longer distance connections and greater bandwidth.
Optical wavelength solutions for your business
Ultimately, your choice of networking technology depends on your business needs and budget. If you’re looking to upgrade your network to meet the ever-increasing bandwidth demands of AI, 5G and IoT, we can help.
At Neos Networks, we’re helping businesses nationwide transform their networks with Optical Wavelengths up to 400Gbps and other high-capacity connectivity, so get in touch.
