Based on ITU G.709 Optical Transport Network (OTN) technology, the M6S and M3S enable operators to groom services and implement a variety of serviceprotection scenarios. These modules are dual-function modules, providing both a transport function for transponding and grooming services, and a system controller function, which governs system provisioning, alarm monitoring, and communication with Ciena’s ON-Center Network and Service Management Suite.

Using enhanced OTN technology, the multiservice modules can transpond, aggregate, and regenerate any number and mix of client services on a single wavelength up to 2.7 Gb/s capacity. Any M6S or M3S can be used alone, or with other transport modules for up to 60 Gb/s payload capacity. The modules can also be used in conjunction with Ciena’s F10-A 10G Aggregator Module to further groom services onto 10 Gb/s wavelengths for even greater wavelength efficiency.

The M6S module is equipped with six full-duplex ports, each of which accepts an SFP transceiver; the M3S has three SFP ports. By simply downloading the appropriate software from the resident release already on the system, each port can be provisioned with its own service identity without additional
licensing, enabling operators to interface and manage any mix of supported services—including OTU-1, GbE, OC-3/STM-1, OC-12/STM-4, OC-48/STM 16, ESCON®, FICON® and Fibre Channel (FC)—on the same multiservice module. In addition, any port can be configured as either client or network to provide greater provisioning flexibility and ease of deployment.

The modules also contain a switch fabric that interfaces with the backplane using dedicated connectivity to the other card slots. This provides a completely nonblocking switch so any service can be switched to any port and aggregated with other services for transport.

The switch fabric also contains an integrated protection switch controller that monitors the received 1+1 protected signals from the backplane destined for the corresponding front-edge port, and switches from the working to the protecting signal during a protection switch event.

When installed in the main slot of the CN 4200 or CN 4200 MC chassis, the M6S or M3S modules also act as system controllers. System controller functions include system initialization, diagnostics, provisioning, IP address detection and resolution, alarm reporting, network management connectivity, maintenance, and current and historical performance monitoring.

In addition, the controller function accesses a removable, on-board, non-volatile compact flash memory, which can upload existing data for off-site permanent storage, or download data such as a new software generic for upgrades or the previously backed-up configuration database for system recovery. Configuration data for each installed service card is mirrored to the flash memory, facilitating field card replacements, obviating the need to re-provision the module, and minimizing downtime.

The controller module is also equipped with three management ports, which provide the means to provision, control, and monitor the entire chassis.

ESCON and FICON are registered trademarks of International Business Machines Corporation.

Ciena may make changes from time to time to the products or specifications contained herein without notice.