10 Gigabit Optical Module Single-Mode Single-Fiber Optic Module

Single-mode fiber (SMF) 10G SFP+ modules support high-speed 10 Gigabit Ethernet over distances up to 10 km or more, available in both duplex and bidirectional (BiDi) configurations.

Duplex Single-Mode SFP+ Modules

Traditional 10G SFP+ modules for single-mode fiber use duplex LC connectors, requiring two fiber strands—one for transmitting and one for receiving. These modules typically operate at 1310 nm or 1550 nm wavelengths and support distances up to 10 km, making them suitable for data center interconnects, campus networks, and metro applications (Ubiquiti, ATEN) . Duplex modules are widely compatible with standard SFP+ ports and are hot-swappable, allowing easy installation without powering down switches .

BiDi (Bidirectional) Single-Mode SFP+ Modules

BiDi SFP+ modules provide a more fiber-efficient solution by enabling full-duplex communication over a single fiber strand using wavelength division multiplexing (WDM). Each module transmits and receives on different wavelengths, typically 1270/1330 nm or 1310/1490 nm, through a simplex LC connector. This approach reduces fiber usage by 50%, simplifies cabling, and lowers deployment costs while maintaining 10G full-duplex performance over distances commonly ranging from 10 km to 40 km depending on the module . BiDi modules integrate a DFB laser, PIN photodiode receiver, and internal WDM coupler to ensure clean signal separation and reliable transmission .

Key Considerations

• Distance Requirements: Standard duplex SMF modules typically support up to 10 km, while some BiDi modules can extend to 40 km depending on optical power and fiber quality .
• Connector Type: Duplex LC for traditional modules; simplex LC for BiDi modules.
• Wavelength: Duplex modules often use 1310 nm; BiDi modules use paired wavelengths for bidirectional transmission.
• Compatibility: Ensure the SFP+ module is compatible with your switch or NIC; many vendors provide certified modules for interoperability .
• Power and Heat: BiDi modules generally consume ≤1W, reducing heat output and energy costs .

Summary

For 10 Gigabit Ethernet over single-mode fiber, you can choose between duplex SFP+ modules for standard deployments or BiDi SFP+ modules for fiber-constrained environments. BiDi modules are particularly advantageous in high-density data centers or when minimizing fiber infrastructure is a priority, while duplex modules remain a reliable choice for conventional SMF links up to 10 km. Both options are hot-swappable, standards-compliant, and widely supported across major networking platforms .