Multiplexer module design is the same as demultiplexer design since the system is bi-directional. DWDMs combine the light signals of many lasers onto a single fiber. Oplink's 160 Channel DWDM design is based on modular thin film filter technology in combination with micro-optic interleaver technology. Oplink's solution allows high channel counts and low initial cost. A system initially built for 40 channels may be expanded to 80 or 160 channels, as traffic needs dictate.
Service providers can build their network with lower initial investments.
As traffic demands increase, service providers can scale up their networks by adding more channels simply by adding additional modules. This important economic advantage makes this approach an extremely cost-effective way to upgrade fiber systems. Oplink's channel plan for a 160- channel DWDM system utilizes both the C band and the L band. 40 of those channels are centered, at 100 Ghz spacing, on the ITU Grid. The other 40 channels are offset from the ITU Grid by 50 GHz.