Ericsson RBS 6000 sites still carry traffic on many networks, and keeping them running means having the right spares on hand. When a radio unit fails on an older site, it needs a like-for-like swap, not a redesign.
This guide covers the RUS 01, RUS 02 and RRUS 32 radio units and the RBS 6501 micro base station. It also explains the digital units these radios work with, and how to pick a spare by band. Silverback supplies new and used RBS 6000 parts, tested before they ship.
What the Ericsson RBS 6000 platform is
This platform came before Ericsson Radio System, which now leads Ericsson's RAN portfolio. Instead of one box, it split the base station into digital units and radio units. The digital unit handled baseband work, while the radio unit handled RF for its band.
Digital units also came in versions by technology. DUG served GSM, DUW served WCDMA and DUL served LTE, while DUS handled multi standard. As a result, the digital unit tells you which technologies a site can run.
Ericsson RBS 6000 radio units: RUS and RRUS
Overall, RBS 6000 sites use two main kinds of radio unit. RUS units typically sit inside the base station cabinet, while RRUS units mount out near the antenna. Both types also come in versions for each band.
RUS 01 and RUS 02
For example, the RUS 01 B3 (KRC11865/1) is a radio unit for Band 3 (1800 MHz). A later version, KRC11865/2, raises output to 80 W. Similarly, the RUS 02 B3 (KRC161280/1) is a Band 3 unit with 80 W output.
RRUS 32
The RRUS 32, on the other hand, is a remote radio unit that mounts near the antenna. We supply the RRUS 32 B3 (KRC161413/1) for Band 3 and the RRUS 32 B7A (KRC161602/1) for Band 7 sub-band A (2600 MHz). Because the two cover different bands, you cannot swap one for the other.
The RBS 6501 micro base station
RBS 6501 units are compact, integrated micro base stations. The RBS 6501 B3 (KRD901103/1) covers Band 3 and runs either WCDMA or LTE. However, it runs one standard at a time, so confirm which one your site uses before you order a spare.
Micro base stations fill coverage gaps and add capacity, especially in busy spots. Since the unit is integrated, a swap is simpler than on a macro site with separate radios and digital units.
Ericsson RBS 6000 part numbers we supply
Here is every Ericsson RBS 6000 part in this family. Each part number also links to its inventory page.
| Part number | Product | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| KRC11865/1 | RUS 01 B3 | Band 3 (1800 MHz) radio unit |
| KRC161280/1 | RUS 02 B3 | Band 3 (1800 MHz), 80 W |
| KRC161602/1 | RRUS 32 B7A | Band 7 sub-band A (2600 MHz) |
| KRC161413/1 | RRUS 32 B3 | Band 3 (1800 MHz) remote radio |
| KRD901103/1 | RBS 6501 B3 | Micro base station, WCDMA or LTE, Band 3 |
| KDU127170/1 | Ericsson RBS component | Matched to the label on your unit |
The KDU127170/1 is an Ericsson RBS component. Send us a photo of the label, and we will match it to your unit before you order.
How to choose an Ericsson RBS 6000 spare
A spare only helps if it fits the first time. So check these three points before you place the order.
Match the band and sub-band
First of all, read the band code on the label. A B3 unit covers 1800 MHz, while a B7A unit covers part of the 2600 MHz band. So a Band 3 spare will never fix a Band 7 sector.
Match the digital unit and software
The radio must work with the digital unit on site, such as a DUS or DUL. In addition, the software release must support the radio model. When in doubt, send us the digital unit model as well as the radio part number.
Check the variant after the slash
In fact, the digits after the slash mark a variant. For example, KRC11865/1 and KRC11865/2 are both RUS 01 B3 units, but the /2 version runs at 80 W. Therefore, quote the full part number, slash included.
Keeping Ericsson RBS 6000 sites alive
Many operators run these older sites next to newer Ericsson Radio System gear. Upgrading every site at once is costly, so older sites often stay in service for years. That is why a small pool of tested spares pays off.
Stock the radio units that carry the most traffic, as well as the power parts that can stop a site. Our site power and cooling guide covers PSUs, PDUs and fans. For the newer platform, see our guide to Radio System remote radios.
New vs used Ericsson RBS 6000 parts
For an older platform, a tested used unit is usually the practical choice. It matches the part number on site and costs less than new stock, so budgets go further. Silverback tests used Ericsson RBS 6000 parts before they ship, and you can ask for new or used condition.
For more on the trade-offs, read refurbished vs new hardware. Every Silverback quote covers the exact part number, condition and lead time.
Buyback when you retire RBS 6000 sites
When you replace Ericsson RBS 6000 gear, the old radios and digital units still have value. Silverback buys back decommissioned telecom hardware and offers certified data destruction. In addition, our ITAD work runs under R2v3, ISO 14001 and ISO 45001.
Send us the part number and get pricing and lead time within one business day. You can also browse our inventory, request a quote for a full spares list, or read our Ericsson buying guide for the wider portfolio.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between RUS and RRUS?
RUS units typically sit in the base station cabinet, while RRUS units mount near the antenna. Both handle RF for one band on older Ericsson sites.
What does DUS mean on an RBS 6000 site?
DUS is the multi standard digital unit. DUG, DUW and DUL are the GSM, WCDMA and LTE versions.
Can the RBS 6501 run WCDMA and LTE at once?
No. The RBS 6501 B3 runs WCDMA or LTE, one standard at a time.
What is KDU127170/1?
It is an Ericsson RBS component. Send us a label photo, and we will confirm the match before you order.
Do you buy used RBS 6000 equipment?
Yes. Silverback buys back retired radios, digital units and site parts, with certified data destruction where needed.
Get a quote for Ericsson RBS 6000 parts
Send us the part numbers, the band and the quantity you need. We reply with pricing and lead time within one business day.
Call (888) 391-5211 or use our quote request form. Silverback supplies new and used Ericsson RBS 6000 spares, tested before they ship.
