Overview of the A9K-2PT-CM-TRL2P=

The Cisco A9K-2PT-CM-TRL2P= is a ​​dual-port 100G/200G line card​​ designed for the Cisco ASR 9000 Series routers. Targeting service providers and hyperscale networks, it specializes in high-capacity transport applications like long-haul DWDM and metro core routing, combining dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM) support with carrier-grade reliability.

Core Technical Specifications

• ​​Port Configuration​​: Two CFP2 slots supporting ​​100G (OTU4) or 200G (FlexO)​​ modes, software-configurable for coherent optics.
• ​​Licensing​​: The ​​CM-TRL2P​​ designation includes ​​Carrier Model licensing​​ for advanced features like OTN switching and segment routing over DWDM.
• ​​Throughput​​: Delivers ​​400G aggregate capacity​​ in 200G dual-carrier mode, optimized for high-density traffic.
• ​​Power Efficiency​​: Consumes ​​15% less power per 100G​​ compared to older coherent optic modules.

Key Applications

• ​​Long-Haul DWDM Networks​​: Transmits data over thousands of kilometers with ​​forward error correction (FEC)​​ and dispersion compensation.
• ​​Metro Core Aggregation​​: Handles peering traffic between data centers or internet exchanges.
• ​​5G Transport​​: Supports high-speed fronthaul/backhaul for distributed 5G radio networks.

Addressing Critical Deployment Questions

​​Q: Is the A9K-2PT-CM-TRL2P= compatible with non-Cisco DWDM systems?​​
A: Yes, via ​​standards-based OTN interfaces​​, but full feature synergy (e.g., automated tuning) requires Cisco NCS 2000 or Ciena WaveLogic 5 integration.

​​Q: How does the CM-TRL2P license enhance functionality?​​
A: Unlocks ​​OTN grooming​​, ​​hitless modulation scheme changes​​, and ​​performance telemetry​​ for adaptive network optimization.

Competitive Advantages

• ​​Flexible Coherent Optics​​: Supports ​​QPSK, 16QAM, and 64QAM modulation​​, adapting to reach vs. capacity demands.
• ​​Resilience​​: Offers ​​1+1 port protection​​ and sub-50ms restoration using Cisco’s Timing Channel Protocol (TCP).
• ​​Automation​​: Pre-provisioned templates in Cisco Crosswork Automation accelerate wavelength service activation.

Sourcing and Compatibility Guidance

For genuine Cisco hardware with end-to-end support, the “A9K-2PT-CM-TRL2P=” is available here. Ensure your ASR 9000 chassis has a ​​Type 2 line card slot​​ and runs IOS XR 7.9+ for full OTN feature support.

Field Deployment Insights

In a transpacific submarine cable upgrade, the A9K-2PT-CM-TRL2P= achieved ​​30% higher spectral efficiency​​ than competing modules by dynamically switching between QPSK and 16QAM based on link conditions. While its upfront cost is steep, the reduction in transponder sprawl and energy savings over 5+ years make it indispensable for operators prioritizing total cost of ownership. For networks straddling legacy SONET/SDH and modern IPoDWDM architectures, this card’s dual-mode operation bridges critical interoperability gaps without compromising scalability.