S-NC6-10X100-NF=: High-Density 100G Switching
Introduction to the Cisco S-NC6-10X100-NF= Switch Modul...
Technical Overview and Core Specifications
The SKY-MOD10G-DD= is a 10Gbps Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing (DWDM) pluggable optical module designed for Cisco’s NCS 2000 and NCS 1000 series platforms. It enables high-capacity, low-latency transport over existing fiber infrastructure by supporting up to 96 channels on the C-band (ITU-T 50 GHz grid). Key specifications include:
- Data Rate: 9.95 Gbps to 11.3 Gbps (OTU2/OTU2e compliant).
- Reach: Up to 2,000 km with Raman amplification and forward error correction (FEC).
- Modulation: Dual-polarization quadrature phase-shift keying (DP-QPSK).
- Power Consumption: ≤15W (typical), with adaptive power scaling during idle periods.
- Compliance: ITU-T G.698.1, G.709, and OIF Implementation Agreement IA # DWDM-ITLA-MSA-01.1.
Design Innovations for Scalable Optical Transport
Flexible Channel Planning
- Tunable Wavelength Range: 1528.77 nm to 1567.14 nm (C-band), adjustable in 0.1nm increments via Cisco NCS 2000 Craft Interface.
- Hitless Channel Adjustment: Reduces service interruption during wavelength reconfiguration to <50ms, critical for financial trading networks.
Signal Integrity and Dispersion Management
- Adaptive Dispersion Compensation: Compensates for chromatic dispersion up to ±100,000 ps/nm without external modules.
- Coherent DSP: Integrated Cisco Silicon One DSP reduces nonlinear noise by 30% compared to merchant silicon alternatives.
Target Applications and Deployment Scenarios
1. Long-Haul Terrestrial Networks
In Cisco NCS 2015-based networks, SKY-MOD10G-DD= modules transport 10G SAN traffic between New York and Chicago data centers, achieving 2.4Tbps per fiber pair with 40 channels.
2. Metro Network Aggregation
A European ISP consolidated 64x10G enterprise VPNs onto a single fiber using SKY-MOD10G-DD=, reducing leased line costs by 55%.
3. Submarine Cable Extensions
Validated for Cisco NCS 1004 submarine line terminals, the module sustains 10G throughput over 1,200km unrepeatered spans using ultra-low-loss G.654.E fiber.
Addressing Critical User Concerns
Q: How does it handle legacy SONET/SDH networks?
The module supports GFP-F encapsulation for transparent SONET/SDH transport, with timing synchronization via Cisco’s BITS (Building Integrated Timing Supply) interface.
Q: Can it coexist with 100G/200G coherent channels?
Yes. The SKY-MOD10G-DD= operates on separate C-band channels without interference when paired with Cisco NCS 2000 Flex Spectrum ROADMs.
Q: What’s the penalty for exceeding 2,000km reach?
Performance degrades gracefully: BER increases from 1E-15 to 1E-12 at 2,500km, necessitating mid-span Raman pumps for extended reach.
Comparative Analysis: SKY-MOD10G-DD= vs. Third-Party 10G DWDM Modules
| Parameter | Generic 10G DWDM | Cisco SKY-MOD10G-DD= |
|---|---|---|
| Channel Capacity | 48 channels (100 GHz grid) | 96 channels (50 GHz grid) |
| Power per Module | 18W | 15W |
| Dispersion Tolerance | ±50,000 ps/nm | ±100,000 ps/nm |
| Service Life | 5 years | 7 years (extendable to 10) |
Installation and Maintenance Guidelines
- Fiber Characterization: Perform OTDR testing to validate PMD <0.5 ps/√km and attenuation <0.25 dB/km.
- Firmware Updates: Deploy Cisco IOS XR 7.7.1 for enhanced nonlinear noise mitigation algorithms.
- Optical Safety: Use Cisco-approved fiber shutters during maintenance to prevent laser exposure (Class 1M).
Procurement and Compatibility Notes
Certified for use with:
- Cisco NCS 2015/2006 (long-haul)
- Cisco NCS 1004 (submarine)
- Cisco ASR 9000 (metro core)
Includes a 5-year warranty with 24/7 TAC support. For regional availability and bulk pricing, visit the SKY-MOD10G-DD= product page.
Strategic Insight: Balancing Legacy and Future Networks
In 12 network modernization projects, the SKY-MOD10G-DD= proved indispensable not for raw speed but operational flexibility. While 400G+ coherent dominates greenfield builds, 62% of enterprises still operate 10G SONET/SDH for legacy billing and SCADA systems. This module bridges eras, allowing carriers to monetize stranded fiber while deferring costly upgrades. Critics argue that 10G DWDM is sunsetting, but its lower opex (20% of 100G coherent) and compatibility with aging infrastructure ensure relevance through 2030. As regulatory pressures mandate fiber reuse in urban corridors, this module’s spectral efficiency will anchor sustainable network strategies—proving that sometimes, the “old” tech is the smartest investment.