BIDI
BIDI
· Jomplair · Lexicon Lab

What is BIDI

BIDI (Bidirectional) modules are optical transceivers that enable bidirectional communication over a single fiber strand. Unlike traditional transceivers that use two fibers (one for transmit and one for receive), BIDI modules use wavelength-division multiplexing (WDM) to transmit and receive signals on different wavelengths over the same fiber. This makes them highly efficient for scenarios where fiber resources are limited.

Working Principle

(1) Wavelength-Division Multiplexing (WDM)

  • BIDI modules use two distinct wavelengths for communication:
    • Transmit (Tx): One wavelength (e.g., 1310 nm).
    • Receive (Rx): A different wavelength (e.g., 1490 nm).
  • A WDM coupler inside the module separates and combines the Tx and Rx signals.

(2) Single-Fiber Operation

  • At one end, the module transmits on wavelength λ1 and receives on wavelength λ2.
  • At the other end, another BIDI module transmits on λ2 and receives on λ1.
  • This allows full-duplex communication over a single fiber.

Applications

(1) Fiber Resource Optimization

  • Ideal for networks with limited fiber availability, such as:
    • Metro Ethernet: Reduces fiber usage in urban areas.
    • FTTx (Fiber to the x): Saves costs in last-mile deployments.

(2) Network Upgrades

  • Enables capacity expansion without laying additional fiber.

(3) Point-to-Point Links

  • Commonly used in:
    • Enterprise Networks: Connecting switches or routers.
    • Data Centers: Interconnecting servers and storage systems.

(4) Industrial Networks

  • Suitable for harsh environments where fiber deployment is challenging.
  1. Advantages

(1) Cost Efficiency

  • Reduces fiber usage by 50%, lowering infrastructure costs.

(2) Space Savings

  • Requires fewer fiber cables, simplifying cable management.

(3) Scalability

  • Enables network expansion without additional fiber deployment.

(4) Compatibility

  • Works with standard single-mode fiber (SMF) and existing network equipment.

(5) Energy Efficiency

  • Consumes less power compared to dual-fiber solutions.

Types of BIDI Modules

Type

Wavelengths (Tx/Rx)

Application

SFP BIDI

1310 nm / 1490 nm

Short to medium-range networks

SFP+ BIDI

1310 nm / 1490 nm

10G networks

XFP BIDI

1310 nm / 1490 nm

10G long-haul networks

QSFP BIDI

Multiple wavelengths

High-density 40G/100G networks

Considerations

  • Wavelength Matching: BIDI modules at both ends must have complementary wavelengths (e.g., 1310 nm/1490 nm and 1490 nm/1310 nm).
  • Fiber Quality: Requires high-quality single-mode fiber for optimal performance.
  • Distance Limitations: Typically used for short to medium distances (up to 80 km).

Summary

BIDI modules leverage WDM technology to enable bidirectional communication over a single fiber, offering significant cost, space, and energy savings. They are widely used in metro Ethernet, FTTx, enterprise networks, and data centers, making them a versatile solution for optimizing fiber resources. With their compatibility, scalability, and efficiency, BIDI modules are an excellent choice for modern network deployments.

 

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