Apr
Blog
What’s best for 100G in broadcast? Single Lambda is becoming a winning choice.
As you know, the broadcast industry is experiencing a seismic shift. In recent years, broadcasters have started to transition away from traditional SDI baseband solutions to IP-based workflows. This trend has been accelerated by the advance of SMPTE 2110 and the development of solutions for encapsulating SDI into IP. As a result, the demand for high-bandwidth, low-latency connectivity is more crucial than ever. In outside broadcast (OB) environments, where space is at a premium and reliability is essential, engineers seek efficient and future-proof solutions. What’s more, the costs of 10G, 25G, and 100G SFPs and network switches have dropped significantly, making IP an increasingly attractive option.
Of course, CWDM4 (Coarse Wavelength Division Multiplexing) has long been the standard for 100G optical modules, providing reasonably reliable high-speed connectivity across data centres and broadcast networks. However, a new player has emerged as the smarter choice for broadcasters: Single Lambda technology. With a simpler architecture, improved reliability, and a clear roadmap to 400G and beyond, Single Lambda is shaping up to be the technology of choice. The price point of the 100G Single Lambda devices has reached parity with the 100G CWDM SFPs.
Single Lambda sparkles
At its core, Single Lambda technology transmits 100G over a single 1310nm wavelength, leveraging PAM4 (Pulse Amplitude Modulation) encoding to enhance data throughput rather than a 4-channel optical mix. This results in fewer components, the potential for reduced long-term costs, and a simpler path to higher-speed networks.
As CWDM4, in contrast, divides 100G into four distinct 25G wavelengths using NRZ (Non-Return to Zero) modulation. Although effective, this method requires four lasers rather than one used by Single Lambda and wavelength multiplexing increases complexity, posing challenges in OB trucks and remote production setups.
Performance boost in broadcast
For a broadcast engineer, performance is not just theoretical; it’s about real-world reliability and efficiency. With fewer optical conversion stages, Single Lambda minimizes latency and enhances signal integrity, making it ideal for live video transmission.
Another big advantage of Single Lambda for users is the simplified network design. With fewer optical components, broadcasters can deploy networks more efficiently, reducing the number of potential failure points. This translates into fewer operational headaches and less maintenance in the long run.
Power and bandwidth limits
Additionally, energy efficiency is a significant factor for any broadcast operation. Power consumption significantly impacts operational costs, and while Single Lambda requires slightly more energy than multi-lane Ethernet modules, the gap is closing – fast (to less than a watt, and a fraction of this amount across many solutions). Of course, energy and heat output are critical factors in OB trucks and compact production environments where cooling is challenging, and space is constrained.
Future-proofing may be another key compelling reason for engineers to consider Single Lambda. 100G is just the beginning, and Single Lambda technology is already paving the way for 400G and 800G deployments. Choosing Single Lambda today means laying the groundwork for a smoother transition to higher bandwidths in the years to come.
Why Single Lambda is more compelling
One of the biggest hurdles to Single Lambda’s early adoption was its cost. The advanced DSP (digital signal processing) required for PAM4 modulation made initial implementations expensive. However, as manufacturing processes have improved and adoption has increased, costs have steadily dropped. Indeed, Single Lambda technology is now nearly achieving cost parity with CWDM4, making it a viable option for both early adopters and mainstream broadcast applications.
When will broadcasters switch to Single Lambda?
Broadcasters who have built infrastructure around CWDM4 won’t switch overnight, considering their past investments, but the direction is clear given how affordable the technology has become. As networks prepare for 400G and beyond, the advantages of a Single Lambda approach are undeniable. As mentioned, the transition will be driven by the demand for more efficient operations, the potential for lower power consumption in the future, and the simplicity of managing a network with fewer optical components.
While CWDM4 continues to play a role in legacy systems and certain project solutions, it will inevitably be phased out with the advance of Single Lambda as new installations roll out.
Final Thoughts
CWDM4 will remain relevant for some time, especially where legacy infrastructure exists, and certain projects dictate. However, as more broadcasters move to IP workflows, Single Lambda is no longer merely an emerging alternative; it’s the future.
With declining costs, better efficiency, and a direct upgrade path to higher bandwidths, Single Lambda looks set to become the de facto choice for 100G and beyond. And for those looking to stay ahead of the curve, the time to start planning is now.
Get the best 100G Single Lambda modules …and CWDM SFPs too!
If you want to find the 100G Single Lambda optical transceiver module for your needs, L2Tek offers industry-leading solutions for high-performance broadcast applications. Explore our range of optical modules and future-proof your network today. Visit our website product page here, or check the links below:
For our complete range of CWDM SFPs, visit:
https://www.l2tek.co.uk/products/ethernet-transceivers/
