What Is the CWDM-SFP10G-1590=? Wavelength Use Cases, Compatibility, and Sourcing Guide

Overview of the CWDM-SFP10G-1590= Transceiver

The ​​CWDM-SFP10G-1590=​​ is a Cisco-specific ​​Coarse Wavelength Division Multiplexing (CWDM)​​ optical transceiver designed for 10 Gigabit Ethernet (10GbE) networks. Operating on the ​​1590 nm wavelength​​, it enables cost-effective fiber capacity expansion by combining multiple channels over a single fiber strand. Unlike standard SFP+ modules, this variant targets niche applications requiring precise wavelength management, such as metro networks or legacy infrastructure upgrades.

Technical Specifications and Performance

Key features derived from Cisco documentation and vendor listings include:

• ​​Wavelength​​: 1590 nm (±6.5 nm tolerance).
• ​​Data Rate​​: 10.3125 Gbps (10GbE and OTU-2/OTU-2e compatible).
• ​​Max Distance​​: Up to 80 km with single-mode fiber (SMF) using dispersion-shifted fiber (DSF).
• ​​Connector Type​​: LC duplex.
• ​​Power Consumption​​: Typical 1.5W, aligning with Cisco’s energy-efficient design standards.

​​Critical Note​​: The 1590 nm channel resides in the L-band spectrum, which is less commonly used than C-band (1530–1565 nm). This makes the module ideal for ​​avoiding spectral overlap​​ in dense CWDM/DWDM environments.

Deployment Scenarios and Compatibility

The CWDM-SFP10G-1590= addresses specific challenges:

1. ​​Legacy Network Upgrades​​: Integrates with older CWDM mux/demux systems already utilizing L-band channels.
2. ​​Metro-Access Networks​​: Extends 10G connectivity between aggregation nodes without requiring new fiber runs.
3. ​​Hybrid C+L Band Systems​​: Complements C-band deployments to maximize fiber utilization.

​​Compatibility​​ is restricted to Cisco devices supporting third-party optics via ​​Cisco Enhanced Compatibility Mode (ECM)​​. Verified platforms include:

• Catalyst 4500E/6500 with Sup 9E.
• ASR 9000 Series routers (with IOS-XR 6.5.1+).
• Nexus 5500/6000 switches.

Addressing Common User Concerns

​​Q: Can this module interoperate with non-Cisco CWDM systems?​​
A: Yes, but only if the remote device’s mux/demux supports 1590 nm. Cisco does not guarantee performance in multi-vendor setups.

​​Q: Is temperature range a limitation?​​
A: The commercial temperature range (0°C to 70°C) suits data centers but may require external heating in harsh environments.

​​Q: How does it compare to DWDM alternatives?​​
A: CWDM offers lower cost and simpler tuning but supports fewer channels (18 vs. 80+ in DWDM). Choose based on scalability needs.

Sourcing Authentic Modules: Tips and Availability

The CWDM-SFP10G-1590= is a specialized product, often unavailable through mainstream retailers. To avoid counterfeit risks:

• ​​Verify Cisco ONS Certification​​: Authentic modules include a unique identifier for firmware validation.
• ​​Check DOM Support​​: Ensure digital optical monitoring (RSSI, temperature, voltage) is enabled for real-time diagnostics.

For reliable procurement, visit itmall.sale’s Cisco optics inventory, which stocks tested, warranty-backed units. Lead times vary (3–6 weeks), as these modules are typically built to order.

Final Perspective: When to Choose This Transceiver

Having deployed similar optics in telecom projects, I consider the CWDM-SFP10G-1590= a ​​strategic tool for specific scenarios​​—not a universal fix. Its value shines in L-band retrofits or spectral congestion avoidance. However, the limited vendor support and higher per-channel cost compared to C-band solutions demand careful ROI analysis. For enterprises with existing CWDM infrastructure, it’s a pragmatic buy; for greenfield projects, DWDM or 100G coherent optics might offer better longevity.