What is the Difference Between 400G-BIDI, 400G-SRBD and 400G-SR4.2?

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John Doe

Answered on 7:51 am

The difference between 400G-BIDI, 400G-SRBD and 400G-SR4.2 is mainly in the naming convention and the form factor of the modules. They are all based on the same principle of using four pairs of multimode fibers, each carrying two wavelengths of 25G signals in both directions, for a total of 400G bandwidth. The term 400G-BIDI is a generic name for this technology, while 400G-SRBD and 400G-SR4.2 are specific names for the modules that implement it.

The 400G-SRBD module is based on the QSFP-DD form factor, which is a double-density version of the QSFP form factor. It has an MPO-12 connector that can be plugged into an existing QSFP port. The 400G-SRBD module can also be used for breakout applications, where it can be connected to four 100G-BIDI modules that use the QSFP28 form factor.

The 400G-SR4.2 module is based on the OSFP form factor, which is a new form factor designed for higher power and thermal performance. It has an MPO-16 connector that can support higher fiber counts and longer distances. The 400G-SR4.2 module can also be used for breakout applications, where it can be connected to four 100G-SR1.2 modules that use the SFP-DD form factor.

Both the 400G-SRBD and the 400G-SR4.2 modules are compliant with the IEEE 802.3bm protocol and the 400G BiDi MSA specification. They can support link lengths of up to 100m over OM4 multimode fiber.

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