Patent attributes
A wavelength division multiplexing and demultiplexing (WDM) assembly is provided that is also capable of performing bidirectional communications. The WDM assembly comprises a WDM module and an adapter for use with the WDM module. The adapter has first and second receptacles in front and back ends thereof, respectively, that are configured to mate with a multi-fiber (MF) connector and with the WDM module, respectively. The MF connector holds ends of M optical fibers and the WDM module has M lenses. The WDM module holds ends of N optical fibers, where N is equal to or greater than 2M. When the MF connector and the WDM module are mated with the first and second receptacles, respectively, the ends of the M optical fibers held in the MF connector are in optical alignment with M lenses, respectively, disposed in the WDM module.