Masthead

MDR-8000 integrates packet features for seamless migration to wireless Ethernet

Alcatel-Lucent’s MDR-8000 digital microwave, the market-leading long-haul microwave solution, supports packet features which provide operators’ a seamless migration from time division multiplexing (TDM) to Ethernet transport over wireless transport networks. The packet features provide a cost-effective evolution path allowing operators to maximize their current investment and to quickly enable enhanced IP services. The Alcatel-Lucent MDR-8000 is designed to meet the most stringent network requirements for mobile backhaul and the long-haul trunking of different segments including state and local governments, cellular operators, public safety agencies, railways, pipelines, utilities, local exchange carriers, television stations, and private enterprise.

With the addition of packet features, operators can leverage enhanced flexibility to tailor their microwave networks according to the bandwidth needs driven by innovative data services and traditional services, while retaining high-level backward compatibility. As the transport rate for IP services grows, enriched interface options allow operators to dynamically reallocate capacity in-service with no disruption.

The MDR-8000 Ethernet interface supports 10/100/1000 Base-T transport, with a possible combined data throughput of 300 Mb/s in a single shelf. In addition, the MDR-8000 allows users to transport a mix of both DS1s and Ethernet on the same radio link.

The MDR-8000 packet capabilities are not limited to new radios, as existing radios can be upgraded simply by replacing the I/O modules and Line Interface Card. In addition, if the upgrade to add Ethernet requires additional bandwidth, the radio bandwidth can also be expanded by simply replacing the Capacity Keys.

The Alcatel-Lucent MDR-8000 packet features enable the following key benefits:

  • Upgrade existing systems to Ethernet with minimal investment
  • Highly reliable transport over long distances
  • Cost-effective alternative to leasing T1 and/or Metro Ethernet
  • Cost-effective alternative to building fiber facilities

Marquee characteristics of MDR-8000 packet features:

  • Native Ethernet transport at 8, 12, 24, 50 and 150 Mb/s - 300 Mb/s with dual transceivers
  • Expanded DS1 Capacity: 32xDS1
  • Extremely low latency
  • Protected Ethernet interfaces in hot-standby and dual-channel radios
  • Ethernet upgrade to MDR-8000 systems already in place