How Does 25G CWDM SFP28 Transceiver Apply in 5G Fronthaul Network

What is 25G SFP28 CWDM Transceiver?

The 25G SFP28 CWDM transceiver plays a critical role in modern telecom, particularly in 5G fronthaul networks. It operates at 25 Gbps, using CWDM tech to transmit multiple signals over one fiber, optimizing bandwidth. Specifically tailored for 5G fronthaul, it supports 25G Ethernet and CPRI/eCPRI, with impressive 10km link distances over single-mode fiber. Fully compliant with SFP28 MSA, CPRI, and eCPRI standards, it typically operates within 1270nm-1370nm and 1470nm-1570nm wavelengths.

If you want to know more about the differences between the 25G SFP28 CWDM module and other 25G SFP28 modules, you can check out this article: 25G SFP28 Transceiver Module Overview.

What is 5G Transport Networks?

5G transport networks comprise fronthaul, midhaul, and backhaul, linking cell sites with one another, then with the core network, and ultimately with data centers.

Fronthaul

As 5G technology continues to evolve, the significance of "fronthaul" in the telecommunications industry is on the rise. This fiber-based link, integrated within the Radio Access Network (RAN) infrastructure, plays a pivotal role in achieving faster speeds and reduced latency. With the introduction of Distributed RAN (DRAN) and Centralized RAN (CRAN) approaches, base station components such as the Central Unit (CU), Distributed Unit (DU), and Active Antenna Unit (AAU) are undergoing substantial restructuring to meet evolving requirements. Fronthaul acts as the vital connection between the active antenna unit (AAU) and the distributed unit (DU), ensuring smooth communication and efficient data transmission. Innovations like the 25G CWDM SFP28 transceiver are essential for facilitating seamless communication and efficient data transfer across 5G fronthaul networks.

Midhaul

Midhaul is a crucial component of the telecommunications network, serving as the intermediary between the fronthaul and backhaul segments. It encompasses the transmission path from the Distributed Unit (DU) to the Centralized Unit (CU). In the context of 5G networks, base stations are structured into a distributed architecture. Here, the DU oversees the transmission and reception of wireless signals, while the CU manages communication with the core network. Acting as a vital link between these two units, midhaul facilitates the transfer of data from the DU to the CU for further processing and dissemination across the network.

Backhaul

The 5G transport network, apart from the fronthaul and midhaul, also includes the backhaul. This component consolidates access traffic from the Radio Access Network (RAN) and uses various technologies like Ethernet, microwave, and optical fiber to transport it to the central office or data center. The backhaul serves as a crucial link, connecting the fronthaul and midhaul to the core network, facilitating seamless data transmission across extensive distances.

Applications of 25G CWDM SFP28 in 5G Fronthaul Network

In the early stages of 5G network setup, fronthaul mainly uses direct fiber links, along with high-frequency and extensive low-frequency coverage for extra access points. To maximize current fiber resources, CWDM optical modules are key. The 25G SFP28 CWDM solution selects 6 or 12 wavelengths from 18 specified in the ITU-T G.694.2 standard, ranging from 1271nm to 1611nm. By following this standard, optical transmission equipment from different vendors can work together in the same network to ensure the stability and reliability of the network and reduce problems caused by mismatches between equipment.

• 25G CWDM SFP28 6-Wavelength Solution

The 6-wavelength 25G CWDM solution opts for the initial 6 shorter wavelengths (1271nm~1371nm) due to the maturity of the industry chain and the lesser impact of transmitter dispersion penalties (TDP). It's widely agreed upon that the AAU side utilizes wavelengths of 1271nm, 1291nm, and 1311nm, while the DU side employs wavelengths of 1331nm, 1351nm, and 1371nm, as depicted in Fig.3. Additionally, the optical module on the AAU side requires cooled directly modulated lasers (DMLs) to meet industrial-grade standards.

• 25G CWDM SFP28 12-Wavelength Solution

The 12-wavelength 25G CWDM solution addresses a mixed transmission scenario involving both 4G and 5G networks. To enhance reliability and reduce component costs, the wavelengths ranging from 1271nm to 1371nm operate at a 25Gbit/s data rate for 5G fronthaul networks, while the wavelengths from 1471nm to 1571nm operate at a 10Gbit/s data rate for 4G fronthaul networks. This arrangement, illustrated in Fig. 4, facilitates the smooth transition from 4G to 5G base stations. However, in practice, the 25G SFP28 connector takes precedence due to its compatibility with both 4G and 5G networks, making the 12-wavelength solution less commonly used in real-world scenarios.

Advantages of 25G CWDM Modules in 5G Fronthaul Network

• Cost-effective

CWDM technology allows multiple different wavelengths of signals to be transmitted over the same fiber optic cable, effectively utilizing fiber optic resources. This means that with CWDM SFP28 optical modules, multiple data streams can be transmitted over a single fiber optic cable without the need for additional fibers, thereby saving fiber optic resources and reducing network construction costs.

• Flexibility and Scalability

Given the substantial and ever-increasing volumes of data typically associated with big data applications, networks must possess robust flexibility and scalability. By employing 25G CWDM modules, one can dynamically select different wavelengths for data transmission, enhancing the adaptability and scalability of the network to meet the continuously growing demands of big data processing.

• Data Security

In the domain of big data applications, handling and processing extensive volumes of sensitive data is routine, underscoring the critical importance of data security. 25G CWDM modules strengthens data transmission security by segregating data streams of varying wavelengths into separate channels. This segregation minimizes the risks of data leaks and interference, thereby enhancing the reliability and security of data transmission.

Conclusion

In brief, the 25G CWDM SFP28 is a critical optical transceiver that efficiently sends multiple signals down a single fiber optic cable using CWDM technology. It plays a pivotal role in providing effective data transmission solutions for 5G fronthaul networks. This technology not only optimizes how bandwidth is used but also meets the high-speed and low-latency demands of 5G networks. Moreover, it enhances data transmission security by segregating data streams into separate channels based on different wavelengths. Overall, its use ensures comprehensive protection for network performance, flexibility, and security, laying a solid foundation for the future of 5G communication.