How to Install Your CWDM Mux Demux?
Updated at May 4th 20231 min read
As is well known, Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM) is a technology that can multiplex multiple optical carrier signals onto a single optical fiber. As a key component in CWDM system, CWDM Mux Demux enables the coupling and separation of optical signals. This article provides a brief overview of CWDM Mux Demux in WDM networks and offers step-by-step details for installing CWDM Mux Demux.
An Overview of CWDM Mux Demux
The CWDM Mux Demux supports wavelengths ranging from 1270 nm to 1610 nm with a 20nm spacing, accommodating up to 18 channels. The diagram below illustrates the operational schematic of a typical 4ch CWDM Mux Demux. Mux combines four different wavelengths onto a single optical fiber, and subsequently, the signal is transmitted to the Demux for separation. This configuration allows you to simultaneously transmit four different types of signals over the same optical fiber, significantly optimizing fiber resources. It's important to note that while the CWDM Mux Demux is designed as an integrated multiplexing and demultiplexing unit, it still requires pairing for proper functionality.

Components to Build A Basic CWDM Network
The table below lists the components required for a basic CWDM system, including a switch, CWDM transceiver, fiber optic cables, and CWDM mux demux. In general, the chassis can also be used to fix the CWDM Mux Demux. It is important to note that when selecting the switch and transceivers, compatibility and data rate should be taken into consideration. For instance, if you have a 10G Cisco switch, you would need to choose Cisco compatible 10G CWDM Transceiver (neutral-compatible 10G transceivers are also feasible). Additionally, the wavelength of the transceiver should also match the CWDM Mux Demux. For example, if you have a 4ch CWDM Mux Demux with a wavelength of 1270-1330nm, the transceivers should be selected with a wavelength band of 1270-1330nm as well. The choice of the chassis should carefully consider the dimensions and housing of the Mux to ensure a smooth installation process.
Part name | Product photo | Description |
![]() | Customized Empty Rack Chassis to Hold 2/4 Pieces Custom Small Size Plug-in Module | |
![]() | 10G Enterprise Switches | |
![]() | 2/4/5/8/9/16/18 Channels CWDM Mux Demux 1270nm to 1610nm | |
![]() | 10Gbps CWDM SFP 1270nm to 1610nm 20/40/80/100/120km Transceiver | |
![]() | LC to LC 9/125 Simplex/Duplex Single-mode Fiber Patch Cable |
Installation Steps of CWDM Mux Demux
To install a CWDM Mux Demux, there are four basic steps:
Step1: Install the Rack-Mount Chassis
The CWDM rack-mount chassis can be mounted in a standard 19-inch cabinet or rack. When to attach the chassis to a standard 19-inch rack, ensure that you install the rack-mount chassis in the same rack or an adjacent rack to your system so that you can connect all the cables between your CWDM Mux Demux modules and the CWDM SFP transceivers in your system.
Step2: Install the CWDM Mux Demux
To insert a mux, you should align the mux with the chassis shelf (shown in the figure below) first and then gently push the module into the shelf cavity. Finally, tighten the captive screws.
Step3: Side A - Connect the CWDM Mux Demux to Switch
First, insert the CWDM SFP transceiver into the switch. Subsequently, connect one end of the Single-mode Fiber Patch Cable to the transceiver and the other end to the CWDM Mux Demux. With this, the basic connection for sideA is completed. Same for side B.
Step4: Connect Side A and Side B
As we mentioned above, MUX DEMUX must be used in pairs. In other words, if you use a CWDM Mux Demux on one end of the network (side A), you must also use a CWDM Mux Demux on the other end of the network (side B). Therefore, the final step is to use the single-mode fiber patch cable to connect side A and side B. For duplex Mux Demux, duplex fiber patch cable are required for the connection. For simplex Mux Demux, a simplex fiber patch cable is sufficient.
Conclusion
In summary, CWDM Mux Demux is a simple, cost-effective, and easy-to-install component of a CWDM system. The above content provides a brief overview of the working principle of CWDM MUX DEMUX and how to set up a basic CWDM network. If you have any confusion in network planning, product selection, or practical applications, feel free to contact us. Our solutions team is ready to provide professional and reliable technical support for you.