03 Jul What is LAN-WDM?
LAN-WDM (Local Area Network Wavelength Division Multiplexing) or LWDM is fairly new type of wavelength division multiplexing (xWDM) that utilizes multiple wavelengths with a spacing of approximately 800 GHz (4.26nm to 4.62nm). This spacing, which varies slightly, is intermediate between Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing (DWDM), which has channel spacings of 0.4nm or 0.8 nm on the ITU fixed grid, and Coarse Wavelength Division Multiplexing (CWDM) with a spacing of 20nm. The IEEE has defined 12 LWDM channels ranging from 1269.23nm to 1318.35nm.
Common implementations of LAN-WDM include 4-channel and 8-channel configurations. The 4-channel LAN-WDM, also known as LAN-WDM4, is typically used to deliver 100Gbps using 25 Gbps NRZ per channel, or 200Gbps using 50 Gbps NRZ per channel. Standards for this configuration include 100GBASE-LR4 for distances of up to 10 km, 100GBASE-ER4 for distances up to 40 km, and 200GBASE-LR4. Additionally, the 4-channel setup can support 400 Gbps using 50 Gbps PAM4 per channel, as seen in the 400GBASE-LR4 standard. The 8-channel implementation is primarily used to deliver 400 Gbps using 8 x 50 Gbps per channel.
LAN-WDM technology is implemented in the O-band in which chromatic dispersion is the lowest for standard single mode fiber. As described in the OTT CONA manual, zero dispersion wavelength or λ0 for standard ITU-G.652 single mode fiber is 1310nm, which is in the O-band. It is therefore possible to use cheaper lasers with broad spectra and more prone to chromatic dispersion.
Applications of LAN-WDM
LAN-WDM is finding many applications, including data center inter-connects and 5G front haul. By employing multiple wavelengths over a single optical fiber, LAN-WDM can significantly boost data transmission rates, making it ideal for the demanding environments of modern data centers. This technology enables seamless communication between data centers, facilitating the transfer of large volumes of data with minimal latency and high reliability.
LAN-WDM plays a crucial role in 5G front haul networks by providing high-capacity, low-latency connectivity between remote radio heads and centralized baseband units. As 5G networks require rapid data transmission to support advanced applications like IoT, autonomous vehicles, and augmented reality, the need for efficient and scalable front haul solutions becomes imperative. LAN-WDM addresses this by enabling multiple wavelengths to transmit over a single optical fiber, significantly increasing the data throughput without the need for additional fiber infrastructure. This technology ensures the seamless transport of large volumes of data, maintaining the high-speed, reliable connections necessary for 5G services. Additionally, the implementation of LAN-WDM in 5G front haul networks allows for efficient bandwidth utilization and future-proof scalability, accommodating the evolving demands of 5G and beyond.
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Founder and Technical Director at FiberGuide, Lecturer, Scientist and Engineer. Passionate about optical networking and information and communication technologies. Connect with me on Linkedin – https://www.linkedin.com/in/jabulani-dhliwayo-1570b5b
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