How much does a QSFP28 silicon photonics chip cost for FTTH

A QSFP28 silicon photonics module for FTTH typically costs between $280 and $500 per unit, depending on distance, vendor, and module type.Market Pricing OverviewFor 100G QSFP28 modules, third-party compatible modules can cost as low as $280 for LR4 or CWDM4 types, which are suitable for long-reach FTTH deployments, while OEM-branded modules may exceed $780 per unit . Silicon photonics modules, leveraging CMOS-compatible manufacturing and hybrid integration of InP lasers, can reduce the bill of materials (BOM) by up to 70% for short-reach 100G-PSM4 modules, capturing significant cost savings compared to traditional laser-based modules .Factors Affecting CostModule Type and Reach: Short-reach (SR4) modules are cheaper, often under $100, while long-reach (LR1/LR4) modules for FTTH can range from $280 to $500 due to higher optical component costs .Silicon Photonics Technology: Silicon photonics reduces packaging complexity and improves thermal stability, which lowers production costs compared to conventional DFB or EML laser modules .Vendor and Volume: OEM modules are more expensive due to branding, warranty, and platform-specific testing, whereas third-party suppliers offer competitive pricing for bulk purchases .Engineering and Production Costs: Chipsets, optical mux/demux, and assembly contribute to the final price. Silicon photonics modules benefit from wafer-scale integration, reducing per-unit costs .Practical Considerations for FTTHDistance Requirements: For typical FTTH deployments (up to 10 km), LR1 or LR4 silicon photonics QSFP28 modules are suitable.Total Cost of Ownership: Beyond module price, consider shipping, installation, and spares. Silicon photonics modules often offer lower power consumption, which can reduce operational costs.Availability: Some silicon photonics modules may have lead times of 1–14 business days depending on stock and vendor . In summary, for FTTH applications, expect to pay roughly $280–$500 per QSFP28 silicon photonics module, with the exact price influenced by reach, vendor, and production scale. Silicon photonics offers cost efficiency and performance advantages over traditional laser-based modules, making it increasingly attractive for high-density, long-reach optical networks .