WBMMF stands for “Wideband Multimode Fiber.” It’s a relatively new class of optical fiber designed to maximize the data capacity of multimode fibers (MMF) by using multiple short wavelengths.
Here are the key features and details about WBMMF:
- Wavelength Range: Traditional multimode fibers like OM3 and OM4 are optimized mainly for operation at the 850nm wavelength. In contrast, WBMMF is designed to operate efficiently over a range of wavelengths from 850nm to 953nm.
- SWDM Support: The wideband capability of WBMMF is tailored for short-wavelength division multiplexing (SWDM). SWDM is a technique that utilizes multiple wavelengths to transmit multiple data channels on a single fiber simultaneously. By using SWDM with WBMMF, it’s possible to increase the data capacity of a fiber significantly without increasing the number of fibers or reducing the reach.
- Applications: WBMMF is especially suitable for data center environments, where there’s a constant demand for higher bandwidth and where space and fiber counts need optimization. With the ability to transmit more data over a single fiber, WBMMF offers a cost-effective solution for data center expansions.
- Standards and Designations: WBMMF is standardized as OM5 fiber. Like other multimode fibers, OM5 (or WBMMF) has a core diameter of 50 micrometers (µm) and a cladding diameter of 125 µm.
- Jacket Color: The typical jacket color for OM5 (WBMMF) is lime green, making it distinguishable from other types of optical fibers like the aqua-colored OM3 and OM4.
- Data Rates and Distances: Using SWDM, OM5 (WBMMF) can support data rates such as 40 Gbps and 100 Gbps for distances up to 440 meters and 150 meters, respectively.
- Future-Proofing: As data center and networking requirements evolve, the use of multiple wavelengths over a single fiber, as enabled by WBMMF, offers a path to support even higher data rates without a complete overhaul of the existing fiber infrastructure.
In summary, WBMMF (or OM5) represents a shift in the approach to handling the increasing bandwidth demands, especially in settings like data centers. By leveraging multiple wavelengths on a single fiber, it provides a scalable and efficient solution for high-speed data transmission.