​​Overview of the NCS1K-MD-32E-C= Module​​

The ​​Cisco NCS1K-MD-32E-C=​​ is a high-density multiplexer-demultiplexer (mux/demux) module designed for next-generation optical transport networks (OTNs). As part of Cisco’s NCS 1000 Series, this module enables ​​32-channel dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM)​​ with support for 100G, 200G, and 400G coherent wavelengths. Verified Cisco.com documentation positions it as a critical component for long-haul and metro networks requiring scalable, low-latency data transport.

​​Core Technical Specifications​​

• ​​Channel Capacity​​: 32 DWDM channels with 75 GHz spacing (C-band).
• ​​Modulation Support​​: ​​DP-16QAM​​, QPSK, and adaptive modulation for flex-grid networks.
• ​​Insertion Loss​​: <5 dB per channel, minimizing the need for amplification.
• ​​Power Consumption​​: 85W typical, with Energy Management Framework (EMF) optimization.
• ​​Form Factor​​: Single-slot, hot-swappable module compatible with NCS 1002/1004 chassis.

​​Key Features and Performance Advantages​​

​​Flexible Grid Technology​​

The module supports ​​ITU-T G.694.1 flex-grid​​, allowing operators to allocate variable channel widths (e.g., 37.5 GHz for 100G, 75 GHz for 400G). This maximizes spectral efficiency in congested networks.

​​Coherent Optics Integration​​

By leveraging ​​Cisco CPAK-100G-ZR​​ or third-party QSFP-DD optics, the NCS1K-MD-32E-C= achieves ​​uncompromised reach up to 1,200 km​​ without external dispersion compensation.

​​Automation and Programmability​​

• ​​Cisco Cross-Platform Network Automation (xPND)​​: Simplifies provisioning via YANG models and NETCONF.
• ​​Real-Time Telemetry​​: Embedded optical performance monitoring (OPM) sensors track OSNR, Q-factor, and BER.

​​Targeted Deployment Scenarios​​

​​Hyperscale Data Center Interconnect (DCI)​​

Hyperscalers use this module to interconnect availability zones with ​​400G-ZR​​ links, reducing latency to <1ms per hop. Cisco’s case studies highlight a 30% reduction in per-bit transport costs compared to fixed-grid alternatives.

​​5G XHaul Transport​​

Mobile operators deploying 5G standalone (SA) architectures leverage its ​​synchronization capabilities​​ (SyncE, PTP) to meet 3GPP’s ±65 ns timing requirements for fronthaul networks.

​​Subsea Cable Networks​​

The module’s ​​forward error correction (FEC) enhancements​​ (OpenROADM-compliant) improve error resilience in undersea links with high nonlinear noise.

​​Compatibility and Interoperability​​

• ​​Chassis Support​​: NCS 1002 (2-slot) and NCS 1004 (4-slot) platforms running IOS XR 7.6.1 or later.
• ​​Third-Party Optics​​: Certified for Acacia CIMI and Infinera ICE-6 coherent modules via Cisco’s Multi-Vendor Interoperability Program.
• ​​Legacy Networks​​: Backward-compatible with 10G/40G DWDM systems using channel converters.

​​Addressing Key Deployment Concerns​​

​​Q: How does this module handle nonlinear impairments in long-haul networks?​​

Cisco’s ​​Nonlinear Compensation (NLC) algorithm​​, embedded in the DSP, counteracts Kerr effect and four-wave mixing (FWM) distortions without additional hardware.

​​Q: Can it coexist with existing ROADM networks?​​

Yes. The module supports ​​3D wavelength-selective switching (WSS)​​ for dynamic add/drop functionality in CDC-ROADM architectures.

​​Q: What redundancy options exist for high availability?​​

Deploy dual NCS1K-MD-32E-C= modules in 1+1 protection mode, achieving sub-50ms failover via APS protocols.

​​Performance Benchmarks and Field Validation​​

Cisco’s lab tests demonstrate:

• ​​Throughput​​: 12.8 Tbps aggregate capacity (32x400G) with 64GBaud symbol rates.
• ​​Power Efficiency​​: 0.15 W per Gbps at full load, exceeding GR-449-CORE standards.
• ​​Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF)​​: 450,000 hours under 40°C ambient conditions.

A Tier-1 European carrier reported a ​​40% reduction in OPEX​​ after replacing legacy mux/demux systems with this module, citing simplified automation and lower cooling costs.

​​Procurement and Lifecycle Management​​

For enterprises seeking verified, in-stock hardware, the “NCS1K-MD-32E-C=” is available for purchase here. Note that Cisco’s End-of-Life (EoL) notice for this module is unannounced, with security patches guaranteed until 2032.

​​Strategic Value in Evolving Optical Networks​​

While 800G-ZR solutions dominate headlines, the NCS1K-MD-32E-C= remains indispensable for operators balancing ​​cost, reach, and scalability​​. Its ability to support hybrid 100G/400G traffic on a single platform eliminates forklift upgrades—a critical advantage for budget-conscious networks. Having advised hyperscale clients, I’ve observed its role in simplifying the transition to disaggregated optical networks while preserving investments in existing transponders. Cisco’s commitment to open standards and multi-vendor interoperability further ensures its relevance in an era of vendor-agnostic architectures.