Optical fiber module, also jokingly referred to as “finger”, is a necessary conversion module for the optical fiber connection of audio and video products and network devices. Although it is unremarkable, it works at the bottommost physical layer of the OSI 7-layer model and is usually not taken seriously. However, it often concerns the foundation of the operation of the entire project.
In recent years, a new type of optical fiber module named BiDi has emerged in the market and has gradually started to be applied in AV-over-IP systems. Let’s take a look at what this new technology can bring to us?
What is a BiDi single – core fiber optic module
BiDi is the abbreviation of “Bidirectional” in English, meaning two-way. It refers to the ability of a single-core optical fiber to achieve two-way data transmission simultaneously. Different from traditional dual-core modules (which require two optical fibers to transmit and receive signals respectively), it uses Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM) technology to distinguish upstream and downstream data by using optical signals of different wavelengths in the same optical fiber, thus saving optical fiber resources and reducing wiring costs.
The working principle of the BiDi fiber optic module
The core principle of the BiDi module is the application of wavelength – division multiplexing technology. It uses wavelength separation, and the specific implementation methods are as follows:
The transmitting end (TX): Sends the data signal using a specific wavelength (such as 1310nm).
Receiver (RX): Receives the data signal using another different wavelength (such as 1550nm).
Key components: The module is internally integrated with a Wavelength Division Multiplexer (WDM Filter) to separate optical signals of different wavelengths, ensuring that the transmitted and received signals do not interfere with each other in the same optical fiber.
According to the wavelength division, BiDi modules are mainly divided into the following types:
1310nm/1550nm wavelength pair: The most common combination, suitable for single-mode fibers, with a transmission distance of over 10 km.
850nm/1310nm wavelength pair: Mostly used for multimode fiber, suitable for short-distance transmission (such as 100m – 500m within a data center).
CWDM (Coarse Wavelength Division Multiplexing) and DWDM (Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing) Expansion: Some high-end BiDi modules will incorporate wavelength division multiplexing technology to support more wavelength channels and further improve bandwidth utilization.
Application scenarios
BiDi single – core fiber technology is highly suitable for scenarios with tight fiber resources:
1. Scenarios where the cost of fiber optic laying is high in building wiring, internal connections in data centers, or long-distance transmission.
2. It is also applicable to FTTH (Fiber To The Home): In home broadband access, a single optical fiber can complete the two-way communication between the operator and the user end.
3. In the AV-over-IP system: Reduce cabling complexity and improve system reliability.
Compared with traditional modules, the BiDi module can save 50% of the fiber optic cabling cost for the AV-over-IP system, which is an effective means of reducing the overall cost of engineering projects in recent years. Therefore, VINGLOOP also provides high-quality BiDi fiber optic modules for the AV-over-IP system, with speeds ranging from 1G to 10G, 25G, and even 100G, to ensure the stable operation of the AV-over-IP system. It has been applied in multiple performances, opening ceremonies, and large-scale convention centers.
We have also prepared 20 high-quality single-mode/multi-mode modules with traditional dual cores, which are compatible with audio and video products and switches of various brands. We will try our best to cover the production of the optical fiber modules commonly required in the AV-over-IP system.
As a plug-and-play product, optical modules have always been presented to everyone at a premium price among traditional network manufacturers. Now, we will provide you with cost-effective modules suitable for AV-over-IP systems to help you provide a stable and reliable system function. Welcome to contact us for details.
