Ciena 6500 photonic modules build the optical line that every wavelength rides on, from amplifiers to ROADMs and protection switches. So when one of these parts fails, every service on that fiber can go down with it.
This guide explains what each module does, as well as how to match it to your shelf. It also covers shelf processors, fans and an RLS Raman module, plus every part number Silverback supplies here.
What Ciena 6500 photonic modules do
Transponders create the wavelengths, while the photonic layer moves them. For example, amplifiers boost the signal between sites, while ROADM and WSS cards add, drop and route each wavelength. Meanwhile, protection switches keep traffic flowing when a fiber breaks.
Shelf common equipment, such as shelf processors and fans, keeps the whole system running. So a full spares plan covers both the photonic cards and the shelf parts around them.
The 6500 began as the Nortel OME 6500 before Ciena bought Nortel's optical networking and Carrier Ethernet business. Since that deal closed in 2010, these modules still carry Nortel-style NTK part numbers.
Amplifier and Raman modules
Amplifiers decide how far a signal can travel between sites, so match them closely. For example, the NTK552GA is the MLA3, a midstage line amplifier for the C-band. You may also see it listed as NTK552GAE5, which is the same part with an E5 ordering suffix.
The NTK552JA is a single line Raman amplifier, or SRA, for the C-band. In addition, it includes an optical service channel, 1 SFP port and a 10/100BT wayside port. Similarly, the NTK552JT is the ESAM, an enhanced service access module with the same OSC, SFP and wayside ports.
Ciena 6500 photonic modules for ROADM and add/drop
ROADM cards decide where each wavelength goes, so they sit at the heart of the line. For instance, the NTK553LB is a flexible grid WSS with a 9x1 layout and built-in optical power monitoring. Meanwhile, the NTK553RA is the RLA, a ROADM with line amplifier in a flexible grid 5x1 design.
Add and drop then happens on a mux/demux card. The NTK508HA is the CCMD8x16, a colorless C-band mux/demux with 8 degrees and 16 channels. As a result, you can add or drop a wavelength without a fixed color per port.
Protection switches, shelf processors and fans
Optical protection switches move traffic to a backup fiber path when the main path fails. The NTK554TA holds four optical protection switches on one C-band circuit pack. Meanwhile, the NTK576AA is the OPSM2 module, which carries two switches instead.
The NTK555NB is the SPAP-2, a shelf processor with access panel and two OSC ports. It suits 6500-2 and 6500-7 Type 2 shelves, so confirm your shelf type before you order.
Similarly, the NTK507LDE5 is a high flow, front exhaust fan module for the 6500-14 shelf. Since a failed fan can take a shelf out of service, many operators keep one on hand.
Ciena RLS photonic modules
Ciena's RLS, the Reconfigurable Line System, is an open photonic line system. The NTK830AC is a single line Raman amplifier module for C-band as well as L-band use on RLS. Unlike the 6500 SRA, it belongs to the RLS platform, so do not mix the two on an order.
How to choose Ciena 6500 photonic modules
First of all, copy the full part number from the failed module, including any suffix. Then confirm the shelf type, the band and the degree count. Finally, check whether the module sits on a 6500 shelf or an RLS system.
- Match the amplifier type, such as MLA3, SRA or ESAM.
- Match the WSS or ROADM layout, such as 9x1 or 5x1.
- Match the shelf, such as 6500-2, 6500-7 Type 2 or 6500-14.
- Match the platform, since RLS and 6500 parts differ.
Also remember that the photonic layer carries the wavelengths from your line cards. So see our WaveLogic card guide and 6500 client card guide for those parts.
Ciena 6500 photonic modules we supply
This table lists every photonic and shelf part number in this family. Each part number links to its inventory page, so you can ask for new or used condition.
| Part number | Product | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| NTK552GA | MLA3 midstage line amplifier, C-band | Also ordered as NTK552GAE5 |
| NTK552JA | SRA single line Raman amplifier, C-band | Integrated OSC, 1x SFP, 10/100BT wayside |
| NTK552JT | ESAM enhanced service access module, C-band | Integrated OSC, 1x SFP, 10/100BT wayside |
| NTK553LB | WSS Flex, C-band, 9x1 | Built-in optical power monitoring |
| NTK553RA | RLA ROADM with line amplifier, Flex C-band | 5x1 degree |
| NTK508HA | CCMD8x16 colorless mux/demux, C-band | 8 degrees, 16 channels |
| NTK554TA | 4x optical protection switch, C-band | Four OPS on one circuit pack |
| NTK576AA | OPSM2 optical protection switch module | Two OPS, C-band |
| NTK555NB | SPAP-2 shelf processor with access panel | 2x OSC, 6500-2 and 6500-7 Type 2 |
| NTK507LDE5 | 6500-14 fan module | High flow, front exhaust |
| NTK830AC | RLS SRA module, C and L band | Single line Raman amplifier for RLS |
New vs used Ciena photonic modules
Used modules are a sensible way to stock spares for a line system that already works. In addition, they let you keep a route running while you plan any upgrade. Since Silverback tests each module before it ships, the spare works when you need it.
Meanwhile, new modules suit new routes and long service plans. So request both conditions on one quote and compare them.
Buyback and why Silverback
When you retire a route or a shelf, Silverback buys back the old gear. It also offers certified data destruction for any storage in the same project.
Silverback supplies new and used Ciena 6500 photonic modules, tested before they ship. You can also browse our equipment inventory or read our Ciena hardware overview for the wider range. Ciena also posts its product news at ciena.com.
Send us the part number and get pricing and lead time within one business day. Then request a quote for one spare or a full sparing kit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the NTK552GAE5 different from the NTK552GA?
No, because NTK552GAE5 is the same MLA3 midstage line amplifier with an E5 ordering suffix.
Which shelves use the NTK555NB shelf processor?
The SPAP-2 suits 6500-2 and 6500-7 Type 2 shelves. It also has an access panel as well as two OSC ports.
What is the difference between the NTK552JA and the NTK830AC?
Both are single line Raman amplifiers. However, the NTK552JA is a C-band 6500 circuit pack, while the NTK830AC is a C and L band module for RLS.
What does the NTK508HA do?
It is a CCMD8x16 colorless mux/demux for the C-band. So it gives you 8 degrees and 16 channels for colorless add and drop.
Can I get new and used modules on one quote?
Yes. Send your part list with quantities, and we then quote both conditions side by side.
Get a quote for Ciena 6500 photonic modules
Send your amplifier, ROADM, protection, shelf processor or fan part numbers, as well as quantities. We reply with pricing and lead time within one business day.
Call (888) 391-5211 or send your part list online.
