NEC launched a 25 Gb/s SFP28 bidirectional optical transceiver capable of 50-mile (80km) transmissions.

The 25G SFP28 BiDi transceiver aims to address growing demand for high-capacity data center interconnects without the complexity of 100 Gb/s coherent systems.

The offering enables bidirectional data transmission over a single fiber using wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) technology, reducing fiber requirements and deployment costs for network operators. Shipments are expected to begin in late November.

“The introduction of 100 Gb/s-class equipment has presented challenges in terms of implementation costs and operational aspects,” NEC suggested, touting its 25 Gb/s solution as an easier upgrade path from existing 10 Gb/s infrastructure.

NEC's transceiver achieves an impressive 30 dB link budget by combining high-output lasers with sensitive receivers, enabling the 50 mile reach and eliminating the need for relay equipment previously required for longer distances. It uses different wavelengths for upstream (1289 nanometer) and downstream (1314 nanometer) transmission.

The vendor also sought to improve power efficiency, with the transceiver consuming just 2.5 watts under industrial temperature conditions (-40°C to +85°C). NEC claims this represents approximately 20% power reduction compared to conventional products using optical semiconductor amplifiers.

The SFP28 form factor ensures compatibility with existing network equipment, enabling smooth migration from 10 Gb/s systems without requiring wholesale infrastructure replacement – a boon for cost-conscious operators.

Its 50-mile reach positions the transceiver for data center interconnect applications, campus networks, and metro aggregation deployments where coherent tech would be overkill. NEC also touts the transciver as being suitable for large-scale networks, including high fiber loss or dark fiber.

“Going forward, NEC will continue contributing to the advancement and energy efficiency of network infrastructure, aiming to realize a sustainable society,” the vendor said in a statement unveiling the offering.

The Japanese giant recently partnered with NTT on optical technology-based communications networks. NEC's SpectralWave WX-T transponder will serve as an endpoint for end-to-end optical paths within the NTT-led Innovative Optical and Wireless Network (IOWN) Global Forum.