Ciena transceivers are the pluggable optics that connect client ports on 6500 cards and other Ciena gear to your fiber. Since each one carries a 160-series or NTK code, that code is the fastest way to find the right part.
This guide decodes the main Ciena optics by form factor, from 10G SFP+ to 400G QSFP-DD. It also shows how to match each optic to its port, so you order the right one the first time.
How to read part numbers on Ciena transceivers
Most current Ciena optics use a 160-series code, such as 160-9402-900. However, older 6500 optics can carry an NTK code instead, such as the NTK592NVE5. That prefix dates back to Nortel, whose optical networking business Ciena bought in a deal that closed in 2010.
Because the code alone does not show the form factor, always check the product name too. For instance, 160-9402-900 is a QSFP28, while 160-9300-900 is a CFP2.
Ciena transceivers by form factor
Form factor decides which port the optic fits, so start there before rate and reach.
100G QSFP28 optics
The 160-9402-900 is a 100G QSFP28 LR4 for 10km over single-mode fiber at 1310nm. Since it runs multirate, from 103.1G to 111.8G, it handles both 100GbE and OTU4. Meanwhile, the 160-9404-900 is a dual-rate QSFP28 ER4 that reaches up to 40km.
The 160-9433-900 takes a different approach, because it uses a single wavelength at 1310nm for up to 10km. In addition, this LR1 supports DOM for live monitoring.
100G CFP2 and 400G QSFP-DD optics
The 160-9300-900 is a 100G CFP2 LR4 that supports OTU4. Resellers also list it as a Ciena 6500 transceiver. So it suits 6500 cards with CFP2 client ports, such as the NTK532GA and NTK668AB.
For 400G, the 160-9600-900 is a QSFP-DD FR4 for 2km, with four CWDM lanes from 1271 to 1331nm. Similarly, the 160-9603-900 is a 400G QSFP-DD LR4 that reaches 10km. Both also use a duplex LC connector over single-mode fiber.
10G SFP+ and legacy SFP optics
For 10G, the 160-9103-900 is an SFP+ LR at 1310nm for up to 10km. The 160-9204-900, however, is an SFP+ ER at 1550nm for up to 40km, with DOM.
Finally, the NTK592NVE5 is an older OC-3/STM-1 CWDM SFP at 1511nm. Since it suits a 12 to 42 dB span, it fits legacy SONET and SDH services rather than Ethernet.
Matching Ciena transceivers to 6500 cards
Each 6500 card lists its client ports, so those ports decide the optic. For example, a WL3n MOTR such as the NTK538BK has 10 SFP+ ports. Likewise, a WL5e MOTR such as the NTK540BC has 1 QSFP-DD port and 5 QSFP28 ports.
Our 6500 WaveLogic card guide and OTN and client card guide list the ports on each card. So it helps to order the cards and optics together.
How to choose Ciena transceivers
First of all, confirm the form factor of the port. Then check the rate, the wavelength and the reach your link needs. Finally, confirm the fiber type and connector at both ends.
- Match the form factor, such as SFP+, QSFP28, CFP2 or QSFP-DD.
- Match the rate, such as 10G, 100G or 400G.
- Match the reach, such as 2km, 10km or 40km.
- Check whether you need OTU4 support as well as Ethernet.
A frequent mistake is picking an LR4 when the link needs ER4 reach. Another is ordering a CFP2 for a QSFP28 port, or the reverse. Because the codes look alike, always compare the product name against the port before you order.
Ciena transceivers we supply
This table lists every optic 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 |
|---|---|---|
| 160-9402-900 | 100G QSFP28 LR4 | 1310nm, 10km, 100GbE and OTU4 |
| 160-9404-900 | 100G QSFP28 ER4 | Dual-rate, up to 40km |
| 160-9433-900 | 100G QSFP28 LR1 | Single wavelength, 1310nm, 10km, DOM |
| 160-9300-900 | 100G CFP2 LR4 | Supports OTU4, 6500 transceiver |
| 160-9600-900 | 400G QSFP-DD FR4 | CWDM, 2km, duplex LC |
| 160-9603-900 | 400G QSFP-DD LR4 | Around 1310nm, 10km, duplex LC |
| 160-9103-900 | 10G SFP+ LR | 1310nm, 10km |
| 160-9204-900 | 10G SFP+ ER | 1550nm, 40km, DOM |
| NTK592NVE5 | OC-3/STM-1 CWDM SFP | 1511nm, 12 to 42 dB span |
New vs used Ciena transceivers
Used optics are a good fit when you need to fill spare ports or replace a failed unit fast. In fact, optics are among the most common spares on any optical network. Since Silverback tests every optic before it ships, you know it works.
Meanwhile, new optics make sense for new builds or long service plans. So ask for both conditions on the same quote.
Buyback and why Silverback
When you upgrade from 10G or 100G to 400G, the old optics still hold value. Silverback buys back retired gear and also offers certified data destruction for any storage in the same project.
Silverback supplies new and used Ciena transceivers, 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 own 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 optic or a full rack of them.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 160-9402-900 and 160-9433-900?
Both are 100G QSFP28 optics for 10km at 1310nm. However, the 160-9402-900 is an LR4 with four lanes, while the 160-9433-900 is an LR1 with one wavelength.
Which Ciena optic reaches 40km at 100G?
The 160-9404-900 QSFP28 ER4 reaches up to 40km over single-mode fiber, and it also supports both 100GbE and OTU4.
Which optic fits a CFP2 port on a 6500 card?
The 160-9300-900 is a 100G CFP2 LR4 with OTU4 support. So it suits cards such as the NTK532GA and NTK668AB, which have CFP2 client ports.
What is the NTK592NVE5?
It is an OC-3/STM-1 CWDM SFP at 1511nm, rated for a 12 to 42 dB span. So it suits legacy SONET and SDH services.
Can I order optics with my 6500 cards?
Yes. Send the card and optic part numbers together, and we then quote them on one list.
Get a quote for Ciena transceivers
Send your 160-series or NTK optic part numbers, as well as quantities and condition. We reply with pricing and lead time within one business day.
Call (888) 391-5211 or request a quote online.
