The Alcatel 3AL43078ACAC03, also known by the functional designation NX-64CI, is a high-density communication interface board designed for the Alcatel-Lucent 1600 series Synchronous Digital Hierarchy (SDH) transport platforms. This board is engineered to manage sub-rate grooming and cross-connection tasks, specifically handling 64 kbit/s signal increments. It plays a vital role in legacy telecommunications infrastructure by ensuring that low-speed data channels are efficiently multiplexed into higher-capacity fiber optic streams.

Technical Specifications

• Model Number: 3AL43078ACAC03
• Functional Code: NX-64CI
• Equipment Compatibility: Alcatel 1660SM / 1662SM Optical Multi-Service Nodes (OMSN)
• Interface Type: 64 kbit/s Cross-Connect / Interface
• Dimensions: Standard Alcatel SDH Blade Factor (approx. 240mm x 220mm)
• Weight: 0.58 kg (1.28 lbs)
• Country of Origin: France / Italy
• Data Protocol: SDH (Synchronous Digital Hierarchy)
• Connector Type: High-density backplane connector for sub-rack integration

 

Application Fields

The NX-64CI board is primarily utilized in large-scale telecommunications and utility networks, including:

• Carrier Backbone Networks: Managing legacy voice and leased-line data traffic.
• Railway Communication: Supporting signaling and operational data over SDH backbones.
• Utility Power Grids: Facilitating teleprotection and SCADA data transmission.
• Oil & Gas Pipelines: Providing reliable long-distance monitoring and communication channels.

 

Product Usage Instructions

1. Handling Precautions: Use an ESD-safe environment. The Alcatel 3AL43078ACAC03 contains sensitive CMOS components that can be damaged by static discharge during handling.
2. Installation: Insert the board into the designated high-speed slot of the 1660SM/1662SM sub-rack. Ensure the locking levers are fully engaged to establish a secure backplane connection.
3. Software Provisioning: Use the Alcatel-Lucent 1350 OMS (Optical Management System) to provision the cross-connect paths. The NX-64CI must be synchronized with the system clock to prevent pointer justifications and bit errors.
4. Maintenance: Check the status LEDs on the front panel. A steady green “RUN” LED indicates normal operation, while a red “ALM” LED signifies a hardware failure or a loss of signal (LOS) on the associated ports.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q: What does the “NX-64CI” designation represent? A: It typically stands for “Node Cross-connect – 64 kbit/s Interface.” It indicates the board’s capability to manage grooming at the DS0 (64k) level within the SDH hierarchy.

Q: Is this board compatible with newer Nokia-Alcatel systems? A: While Alcatel-Lucent merged with Nokia, this specific board is designed for the legacy OMSN series. Compatibility with newer IP-MPLS platforms would require a gateway or specialized circuit emulation (CES) modules.

Q: Does this board support protection switching? A: Yes, it supports standard SDH protection schemes (such as MSP or SNCP), ensuring that data traffic is automatically rerouted in the event of a fiber cut or hardware malfunction.

 

Product Industry News

In the current shift toward “All-IP” networking, boards like the 3AL43078ACAC03 remain essential for maintaining “Mission-Critical” legacy services. Many global utilities continue to rely on SDH technology due to its deterministic latency and high reliability. Nokia (the successor to Alcatel-Lucent) continues to offer support for these platforms to help operators transition gradually to Packet Transport Networks (PTN). Recent updates in network management software allow for better visibility of these legacy SDH assets, enabling predictive maintenance and reducing the risk of downtime for vital 64k data circuits.

 

Similar Model Recommendations

• 3AL43078ABAA: An earlier revision of the NX-64 interface module.
• 3AL78816AA: A related SDH Synchronous Supply Unit (SSU) board.
• 3AL79092AA: A high-capacity 10G Optical Interface card for the 1660SM.
• 3AL43022AA: A PDH interface board for E1 (2 Mbit/s) connections.
• 3AL45100AAAA: A main matrix switch board used in the same sub-rack family.