Are you upgrading your network to 100GbE but confused by the transceiver choices? Are you unsure whether 100GBASE-SR4 vs 100GBASE-CWDM4 is the best fit for your data center’s needs, budget, and existing fiber? Choosing the wrong 100G transceiver can lead to costly re-cabling or performance issues. This guide simplifies the decision. We’ll compare these two leading 100GbE optical modules. You’ll gain clarity to select the ideal 100G solution for your infrastructure.
Why is 100GbE Still a Critical Backbone for Data Centers Today?
Despite 400G and 800G emerging, 100GbE remains vital. It offers a powerful blend of cost-efficiency and performance.
The Enduring Role of 100G Ethernet in Modern Server Uplinks
100G Ethernet forms the backbone for many data center architectures. It powers high-bandwidth server uplinks and efficient spine-leaf networks. It also provides a cost-effective upgrade from 40G. This makes it a popular choice for enhancing network capacity.
How a 100G Transceiver Impacts the Data Center
Selecting the right 100G transceiver is critical. It impacts reach, fiber type, and overall project budget. A strategic choice optimizes both performance and total cost of ownership (TCO).
What Defines 100GBASE-SR4 and Where Does It Excel?
100GBASE-SR4 is a go-to for short-reach, high-density applications.
100GBASE-SR4 QSFP28 Transceiver Technology and Key Features
The 100GBASE-SR4 QSFP28 transceiver uses an 850nm wavelength. It operates on parallel optics, sending 4x25Gbps lanes. This requires multimode fiber (MMF) and an MPO-12 connector. It’s a common and well-established technology.
100GBASE-SR4 Performance and Optimal Data Center Applications
100G SR4 offers reaches up to 70m on OM3, 100m on OM4, and 150m on OM5 MMF. It is ideal for intra-rack and adjacent-rack connections. Common uses include server-to-ToR and ToR-to-spine links. It’s perfect where MMF infrastructure is already in place.
Advantages and Limitations of 100GBASE-SR4 Deployment
SR4 has a lower cost per transceiver. It also offers simpler fiber management using MMF. However, it depends on existing MMF infrastructure. Older data centers might need re-cabling if only OM1/OM2 is present.
What Makes 100GBASE-CWDM4 a Go-To for Longer 100G Links?
For longer distances, 100GBASE-CWDM4 is often the preferred choice.
100GBASE-CWDM4 QSFP28 Transceiver Technology Explained
The 100GBASE-CWDM4 QSFP28 transceiver uses LAN-WDM technology. It transmits four distinct wavelengths (1271nm, 1291nm, 1311nm, 1331nm). These travel over a single pair of single-mode fibers (SMF). It connects via an LC Duplex connector. This differs significantly from SR4’s parallel optics.
100GBASE-CWDM4 Performance and Ideal Data Center Scenarios
100G CWDM4 reaches up to 2km over OS2 single-mode fiber. This makes it ideal for inter-rack, inter-row, or even campus building interconnects. It’s the solution when distances exceed multimode fiber capabilities.
Key Benefits and Considerations for 100GBASE-CWDM4
Its main benefit is a longer reach with the SMF infrastructure. While the transceiver cost is higher, new deployments often find SMF cheaper per meter than MMF. However, the optical technology is more complex than SR4.
100GBASE-SR4 vs 100GBASE-CWDM4: How to Make the Right Choice?
Deciding between SR4 and CWDM4 depends on several critical factors.
Decision Factor 1: Your Existing Fiber Infrastructure (MMF vs. SMF)
If you have installed OM4 multimode fiber, SR4 is often the most cost-effective. For new builds or if single-mode fiber is already dominant, CWDM4 is a strong contender. Matching your transceiver to your fiber avoids expensive re-cabling.
Decision Factor 2: Critical 100G Link Distance Requirements
For short-reach data center links (under 150m), 100GBASE-SR4 is typically best. For medium-reach connections (up to 2km), 100GBASE-CWDM4 delivers superior value. Always measure your exact link distances.
Decision Factor 3: 100G Transceiver Cost and Overall Budget
Compare the module prices: 100G SR4 modules are generally less expensive. However, consider the total cost of ownership (TCO). This includes fiber installation, which can favor SMF for longer runs.
Decision Factor 4: 100G Breakout Capabilities and Port Utilization
SR4 is often used for breakout applications. It can split a 100G port into 4x25G SFP28 links. CWDM4 typically does not offer this breakout functionality. This is a key consideration for specific port needs.
How PHILISUN Optimizes Your 100G QSFP28 Transceiver Deployment?
PHILISUN provides reliable solutions to streamline your 100G network upgrade.
PHILISUN’s Comprehensive 100GBASE-SR4 and 100GBASE-CWDM4 Portfolio
PHILISUN offers high-performance QSFP28 SR4 modules for multimode fiber. These include our 103G 850nm 100m SR4 MPO-8/12 transceiver. We also provide reliable QSFP28 CWDM4 modules for single-mode fiber up to 2km. We cover diverse needs.
Guaranteed 100G QSFP28 Compatibility and Unwavering Reliability
Our transceivers undergo rigorous testing. They ensure compatibility with leading network equipment. This includes devices from Cisco, Juniper, and Arista. This guarantees stable 100GbE connectivity for your data center.
Complementary Cabling Solutions from PHILISUN
We offer end-to-end 100G interconnects. This includes MPO fiber cabling for SR4 deployments. We also provide LC fiber patch cables for CWDM4 deployments. PHILISUN ensures a complete, reliable physical layer solution.
Conclusion
Strategic transceiver selection is key for efficient 100GbE. Optimizing performance and TCO means smart 100GbE choices. This includes matching transceivers to your fiber type and link distances. A well-planned deployment ensures a robust and scalable network.
Choose PHILISUN for your 100G network needs. Our high-quality QSFP28 optics and cabling provide trusted solutions. We help you build a robust and scalable data center network today.
Explore PHILISUN’s 100G QSFP28 Transceivers and Cabling Solutions Today!
FAQ
Q1: What is 100GBASE-SR4 primarily used for?
A1: 100GBASE-SR4 is mainly for short-reach connections. It’s used within a data center rack or between adjacent racks. It supports distances up to 100m on OM4 multimode fiber.
Q2: What type of fiber does 100GBASE-CWDM4 require?
A2: 100GBASE-CWDM4 requires single-mode fiber (SMF). It typically reaches up to 2km on OS2 SMF. This makes it suitable for longer links than SR4.
Q3: Which 100G transceiver is generally more cost-effective?
A3: 100GBASE-SR4 transceivers are usually less expensive per module. However, consider the total cost, including existing fiber infrastructure. Single-mode fiber is often cheaper for new, long-distance runs.
Q4: Can PHILISUN provide both SR4 and CWDM4 100G transceivers?
A4: Yes, PHILISUN offers both high-performance 100GBASE-SR4 and 100GBASE-CWDM4 QSFP28 transceivers. We provide solutions for both multimode and single-mode fiber applications.
Q5: What is the main cabling difference between 100GBASE-SR4 and CWDM4?
A5: 100GBASE-SR4 uses MPO-12 connectors and multimode fiber. 100GBASE-CWDM4 uses LC duplex connectors and single-mode fiber. This impacts your cabling infrastructure needs directly.
