SN 16000 Intelligent Optical Switching Platform - Sycamore ...

Product Brief SN 16000 

SN 16000 Intelligent Optical Switching Platform 

Maximum Switching Capacity and Flexibility for Core Networks 

At the Core of Network and Service Agility 

The SN 16000 sets the industry benchmark for optical switching power, with highdensity 

IP/data aggregation, interchangeable service interfaces, and unmatched 

capacity (up to 2.5 Tbps in 3 bays). Consolidating multiple functions (BB-DCS, ADM, 

OXC, DWDM) in a highly modular architecture, Sycamore’s flagship switching platform 

delivers cost-effective scalability and performance. Support for a mix of Gigabit Ethernet, 

10 GigE, SONET/SDH, and OTN/G.709 interfaces and user-selectable pluggable optics 

– from a single Universal Service Card – provides exceptional deployment flexibility for 

metro core, inter-office facility, wireless backbone, and core network applications. 

The SN 16000 integrates seamlessly with existing voice and data network technologies to 

empower practical network evolution; grooms and routes traffic more efficiently to improve 

bandwidth utilization; and automates network functions to simplify operational procedures. 

In-service scalability and massive capacity enable fixed line and mobile operators 

to expand their networks on a just-in-time basis to accommodate high-bandwidth, 

multiservice traffic growth. Moreover, intelligent bandwidth management creates the 

most robust and scalable foundation for next-generation networks and services. 

Flexible Networking Solutions 

Service providers use the SN 16000 to meet a range of networking requirements with 

solutions that optimize network performance: 

n Resilient optical mesh backbones to support fixed line and mobile voice and data 

services with maximum operational and cost efficiencies 

n Unified edge-to-core switching platforms address the needs of multiservice regional, 

metro, and optical core networks 

n End-to-end intelligent bandwidth management for optimal capacity utilization and 

diverse, highly customized applications 

n High-speed bandwidth aggregation and protection for IP, Ethernet, Frame Relay, and 

ATM services 

n High-density alternative to standalone BB-DCS/ADMs for grooming and routing 

circuit traffic 

n Next-generation SONET/SDH, including international gateway functions 

n Network evolution to converged, IP-centric architecture 

n Enhanced infrastructure survivability and network integrity 

features and Benefits 

� Unmatched scalability, port density, and 

switch fabric capacity 

� SONET/SDH, GigE, 10 GigE, pluggable 

optics – on a single card 

� Resilient mesh protection, ring and mesh 

interworking 

� Intelligent bandwidth management and 

multi-layer interoperability 

� Industry-leading, ASON/GMPLS-compliant 

unified control plane 

figure 1: the SN 16000 intelligent 

optical Switch

Product Brief 

As service providers seek practical, cost-effective ways to 

evolve their networks, the stages in between a static ring and 

a dynamic mesh infrastructure are the most challenging; and 

for hybrid network and phased migration deployments, the 

SN 16000 has no peer. Intelligent optical switching supports 

non-disruptive, business-driven network evolution, minimizes 

incremental capital investment, and increases operational 

flexibility at every step. 

An Advanced Optical Switching Platform 

Your Choice of Right-Sized Configurations 

The SN 16000 switching platform is available in single 

chassis or multi-chassis configurations. Multi-chassis options 

– from the economical 128 x 128 to the industry’s largest 

1024 x 1024 matrix size – deliver maximum efficiency and 

scalability in an architecture designed for future growth. The 

single chassis SN 16000 SC (64 x 64) provides the same 

features, right-sized for smaller sites. In any configuration, 

a modular chassis design contributes to high network 

availability, scalability, and port density. 

Unmatched Capacity and Scalability 

The SN 16000’s opto-electrical (O-E-O) switch design 

delivers the industry’s highest capacity switching solution, 

with an all-optical backplane to support superior scalability. 

Software-configurable Gigabit Ethernet, 10 Gigabit Ethernet, 

SONET/SDH, and OTN/G.709 service interfaces offer perport 

switching granularity and grooming to STS-1/AU-3. 

Interchangeable SONET/SDH and high-speed Ethernet 

interfaces, and in-service pluggable transport optics – on a 

single Universal Service Card – allow exceptional network 

design flexibility and pay-as-you-grow deployments. In-service 

scalability from 320 Gbps to 2.5 Tbps supports seamless, 

non-disruptive expansion. 

Advanced Control Plane and Management Software 

The advanced optical routing and signaling capabilities of 

BroadLeaf ® networking software underpin support for TDM 

and data aggregation, dynamic service provisioning, diverse 

protection and restoration, and the interworking of ring and 

mesh topologies. Sycamore’s industry-leading intelligent 

control plane complies with ITU-T ASON, IETF GMPLS, and 

OIF UNI/E-NNI standards. 

Distributed network intelligence empowers service providers to 

gradually and selectively automate operations – while meeting 

or exceeding the most stringent criteria for availability. SILVX ® 

network management software provides end-to-end optical 

network configuration, performance management, and realtime 

capacity monitoring, for creating and controlling dynamic 

services. 

2 

Suite of Integrated Transport Optics 

In-service pluggable optics make it possible to tailor optical 

reach to each service interface and support extended 

distances without electrical regeneration. Integrated switching 

and transport eliminates collocated DWDM equipment, to 

further reduce capital expenditures, operational expenses, 

and network complexity. An architecture designed for 

seamless feature enhancements enables the SN 16000 

platform to gracefully incorporate emerging technologies (e.g., 

OTN/G.709) in line with evolving network standards. 

User-Configurable Communication Channels 

BroadLeaf’s IP-based control plane architecture supports 

configuration of SN 16000 nodes with a mix of in-band and 

out-of-band control channels, to improve network resiliency 

and management flexibility. The ability to separate network 

traffic and control plane traffic enhances network security and 

reliability. The same open systems architecture that enables 

advanced intelligent optical switching also provides SONET/ 

SDH processing, grooming, in-band control, and performance 

management features vital for interoperability in hybrid networks. 

Proven Reliable Performance 

Completely redundant hardware system components and 

interconnections ensure the SN 16000’s operationally proven 

reliability and availability; while advanced software features 

support industry-leading network awareness and performance. 

The SN 16000 switching platform has proven its value and 

reliability in deployments at the core of some of the world’s 

largest and most innovative optically switched networks. 

Modularity redefiNeS “flexiBility” 

The Universal Service Card (USC) for the SN 16000 significantly 

reduces network costs and increases application flexibility for 

service providers. Interchangeable SONET/SDH and high-speed 

Ethernet interfaces, with varying optical reaches and service 

rates – on a single card – add the value of modularity to 

Sycamore’s hallmark intelligence and seamless integration. Userselectable 

Line Interface Modules (LIMs) and in-service pluggable 

optics provide a cost-effective way to add services and tailor 

optical reach precisely where and when traffic demands dictate. 

Modular architecture reduces operational complexity and 

expenses, from installation to inventory and sparing. Modularity 

also simplifies network design, configuration, and service 

upgrades. By forming an extensible platform for in-service 

enhancements, the USC favorably impacts the economics of 

future network and service growth. The SN 16000 supports 

versatile SONET/SDH and standards-based Ethernet solutions, 

pay-as-you-grow deployment options – with no stranded ports – 

and the most efficient data aggregation possible.

4F BLSR/ 

MS-SPRing 

Metro 

ADM ADM 

UPSR/SNCP 

Optical 

Mesh 

SN 16000 

MSPP 

figure 2: diverse, resilient Mesh Protection options 

Traditional SONET/SDH ring-based and 1+1 path protection options guarantee sub 50ms protection switching for high priority communications. Distributed 

intelligence and mesh-based protection ensure high network resiliency and eliminate single points of failure. 

Seamless Integration in SONET/SDH Networks 

BB-DCS and ADM Integration 

Deployed as an optical cross-connect (OXC) in SONET/ 

SDH networks, the SN 16000 significantly reduces 

equipment and operational costs by seamlessly integrating 

BB-DCS, ADM, and DWDM transport functions. The 

SN 16000 can efficiently assume the bandwidth 

management, aggregation, and processing formerly 

handled by BB-DCS and client-side ADMs. Terminating 

SONET/SDH access rings directly onto the SN 16000 

platform reduces costly stacks of stand-alone equipment 

and multiple interconnection cables in Central Offices. 

SONET/SDH Features and Protection Schemes 

Product features based on SONET/SDH network 

performance standards enhance integration and reliability. 

These features include bridge and roll, integrated test 

access, auto in-service, threshold crossing alerts, path 

loopbacks, synchronization status messaging, and advanced 

performance monitoring (section, line, and intermediate path). 

The SN 16000 adds value by extending support for 

traditional performance metrics beyond SONET/SDH rings to 

hybrid and mesh architectures. At the same time, the 

SN 16000 reliably supports sub 50ms restoration with 

2F BLSR/ 

MS-SPRing 

Router 

SN 16000 SN 16000 

SN 16000 SN 16000 SN 16000 SN 16000 



Mesh 

MSPP 


Mesh 


MSPP 

multiple, standards-based SONET/SDH protection schemes: 

1+1 linear APS/MSP with user-configurable switchover, 

UPSR/SNCP, 2- and 4-fiber (2F/4F) BLSR/MS-SPRing. 

Adherence to industry standards and processes (such as 

NEBS, IEEE, ITU, and Telcordia OSMINE) provides additional 

assurance that the SN 16000 platform integrates seamlessly 

and performs with carrier-class reliability and availability 

in SONET/SDH networks. Standards-based northbound 

interfaces (TMF-CORBA, XML, TL1, SNMP) facilitate integration 

with existing OSS systems and operational procedures. 

Practical Solutions for Network Evolution 

Support for the ITU-T ASON framework for network 

architecture and standards-based interworking of SONET/ 

SDH ring, optical mesh, and hybrid network technologies 

translates to a superior platform for cost-effective network 

evolution. On a port-by-port basis, the SN 16000 

concurrently supports GMPLS and UNI/E-NNI protocols, 

traditional provisioning processes, and a mix of protection 

options, from SONET/SDH protection schemes to dynamic 

mesh restoration. Service providers can use any combination 

of these standards, protocols, and protection schemes to 

gradually adjust operations and services. 

3

Product Brief 

Unique Interworking Capabilities 

Ring/mesh interworking allows for enhanced interoperability 

between the SN 16000 and other network elements, full 

restoration of working traffic with no loss of ring capacity, and 

higher network resiliency. Sophisticated circuit management 

capabilities simplify configuration and management in ring 

and mesh-based networks, and support both automated and 

manual provisioning in all topologies. This means that the 

SN 16000 delivers all the cost savings, operational 

efficiencies, and competitive benefits of intelligent optical 

switching without any disruption to existing networks, services, 

or revenue streams. Service providers can selectively add 

bandwidth or enable automated features – at a pace dictated 

by market demand and their own business requirements. 

Scalability for IP and Multiservice Networks 

An extremely robust optical layer supports high-density 

aggregation of new and existing data traffic (ATM, Frame 

Relay, Ethernet, IP) and simplifies the process of extending 

high-speed Ethernet services over SONET/SDH networks. 

SN 16000 modular service interfaces include flexiblerate 

GigE and 10 GigE, with Ethernet Packet Intelligence 

(intelligent policing and packet-to-circuit mapping, using 

Layer 2 VLAN tags and MPLS label information), support for 

MEF service classes, and unique implementations of ITU-T 

Ethernet standards (VCAT, LCAS, GFP) to enhance network 

efficiency and manageability. 

Multiservice aggregation increases the resiliency of data 

services, improves capacity utilization, and supports 

high-bandwidth applications. ASON/GMPLS-compliant 

4 

ADM 

IP 

TDM 

ADM 

Ethernet 

IP 

SN 16000 SN 16000 SN 16000 

Intelligent 


Switching 



Ethernet 

Ethernet 

IP 

IP 

MSPP 

MSPP 

MSPP 

figure 3: New Scalability for iP and Multiservice Networks 

High-density, multiservice aggregation by the SN 16000 offers an efficient, cost-effective alternative to packet-over-SONET/SDH 

interfaces for handling growing IP traffic. 

BroadLeaf software enables interaction between network 

layers that allows for dynamic, on-demand bandwidth and 

unprecedented scalability. New interface modules, line cards, 

or nodes can be added non-disruptively, in a matter of 

minutes, to meet rapidly changing end user needs. 

Intelligent Bandwidth Management 

Empowered by BroadLeaf and SILVX, the SN 16000 

dramatically reduces provisioning times, enhances capacity 

utilization and traffic engineering, and supports multiple 

restoration methods across a common infrastructure. 

Multi-Layer, Multi-Vendor Interoperability 

A standards-based approach to multi-layer, multi-vendor 

interoperability has proven to simplify IP/optical integration 

in multi-vendor environments. Sycamore networking 

software has demonstrated compliance with the IETF 

GMPLS and OIF UNI/E-NNI protocols, and supports the 

ITU-T ASON framework for optical network architecture and 

other emerging standards. BroadLeaf, the first IP standardsbased 

optical control plane and the most robust switching 

software in the industry, is augmented by continuous 

innovation and enhancement based on years of deployment 

experience in Tier 1 production networks. Leveraging this 

intelligent control plane and SILVX, the SN 16000 achieves 

a level of network and service awareness that enables 

seamless interoperability with other network elements. 

Resilient Mesh Restoration 

Intelligent bandwidth management encompasses resilient 

mesh protection schemes and per-port configurable Quality 

of Service (QoS). Mesh restoration options (from 1+1 Path



Integrated 

BB-DCS/ADM Functionality 

Protected and Dynamic Source Reroute to Unprotected) 

work in any network topology and in multiple combinations; 

and diversely routed circuits ensure network resiliency and 

survivability, even in the event of multiple, simultaneous 

failures. Mesh protection and distributed intelligence enable 

highly customized solutions while improving operational 

efficiency and profitability. With the SN 16000 platform, 

service providers can segregate different traffic types to meet 

service level agreements (SLAs) and offer tiered protection – 

even a mix of protection within a single service contract. 

Enhanced Manageability and Security 

Intelligent optical switching simplifies and enhances the 

delivery of broadband services. Very short turn-around 

times for provisioning high-speed services – a matter of 

minutes – easily accommodate customers’ requirements 

for flexible connection speeds and time-of-day services. 

SILVX even makes it possible for service providers to offer 

premier customers and resellers a ‘do it yourself’ option 

(i.e., customized network and service views) through an 

easy-to-use, web-based interface. The SN 16000 supports 

network partitioning (e.g., OVPN, scheduled bandwidth) 

and customer-managed sub-networks and services in a 

controlled, secure environment that protects overall network 

assets. Communications integrity is assured with security 

capabilities such as account, password, and session 

management; excessive authentication retry notification; 

and extensive audit logging to ensure accountability for 

user actions. A rich set of optional security features includes 

RADIUS central authentication and IPsec trusted path 

support and encryption protection. 


GMPLS, G.ASON 

O-UNI/E-NNI 


Diverse Protection Options 

Topology Independence 

Ring and Mesh Interworking 

BLSR/MS-SPRing 

Ring Protection 

ADM 

Central Of�ce Central Of�ce 

Existing SONET/SDH 

ADM ADM 

Ring Infrastructure 

ADM 



High-Capacity Ring Termination 

figure 4: architecture for Pragmatic Migration to Packet-optimized Networking 

The SN 16000 leverages existing infrastructure to ease the transition to dynamic, packet-optimized optical networks. Advanced 

features support a flexible mix of protection schemes and unique, standards-based ring and mesh interworking. 

The Ultimate in Flexibility and Efficiency 

For incumbent service providers, technology choices being 

made now will impact long-term network costs, service 

differentiation, and revenue growth. Effective solutions for 

network evolution should leverage existing infrastructure to 

quickly expand service possibilities – yet provide an open 

path forward. The SN 16000 does both, empowering service 

providers to determine the pace of change. Advanced network 

intelligence ensures maximum flexibility, with support for: 

n Seamless integration in large, hybrid networks 

n Cost-efficient, pay-as-you-grow deployment options 

n Gradual migration to automated operational procedures 

n Targeted introduction of enhanced features and services 

n Long-term competitive differentiation and growth 

Sycamore switching platforms share common networking 

software (BroadLeaf) and a single management system (SILVX) 

to further enhance end-to-end manageability and resiliency. 

From day one and in any topology, deploying the SN 16000 at 

the network core delivers dramatic reductions in operational 

cost and complexity, supports interoperability with other 

technologies and vendors, and forms a robust and scalable 

foundation for dynamic network infrastructure. 

5

Product Brief 

SPecificatioNS 1 

System • Fully redundant system hardware and software 

• Fully non-blocking SONET/SDH grooming switch 

• Grooming to STS-1/AU-3 granularity 

• Matrix sizes from 64 x 64 (160 Gbps) to 1024 x 1024 

(2.56 Tbps) – In-service hitless chassis upgrade from 

320 Gbps to 2.56 Tbps 

• Ethernet Private Line Services 

• Ethernet Virtual Private Line Services 

• Intelligent Ethernet policing and packet-to-circuit mapping 

Service Interfaces • SONET/SDH (OC-3/STM-1, OC-12/STM-4, OC-48/STM-16, 

OC-192/STM-64) 

• Gigabit Ethernet and 10 Gigabit Ethernet 

• OTN OTU-2 with integrated tunable transponder 

USC Line Interface 

Modules and 

Pluggable Optics 

Network Architecture 

and Protection 

Switching 

BroadLeaf ® 

Networking Software 

Physical 

Characteristics 

Sycamore Networks, inc. • 220 Mill road • chelmsford, Ma 01824-4144, uSa • Phone: 978-250-2900 • fax: 978-256-3434 • www.sycamorenet.com 

Sycamore Networks, Inc. (NASDAQ: SCMR) is a leading provider of intelligent bandwidth management solutions for fixed line and mobile network operators worldwide. From multiservice access networks to the 

optical core, Sycamore products enable network operators to lower overall network costs, increase operational efficiencies, and rapidly deploy new revenue-generating services. 

Sycamore assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of the information presented, which is subject to change without notice. BroadLeaf, SILVX, SilvxSource, SilvxManager, Sycamore, and Sycamore Networks are 

trademarks or registered trademarks of Sycamore Networks, Inc. in the United States and/or other countries. Copyright © 2009 Sycamore Networks, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 

Mcd103-0709 

• 4 x OC-48/STM-16 LIM with SFP optics (SR, IR, LR, DWDM) 

Per USC: 2 LIMs (8 ports total) 

• 1 x OC-192/STM-64 LIM with XFP optics (SR, IR, LR, DWDM) 

Per USC: 2 LIMs (2 ports total) 

• 10 x GigE LIM with SFP optics (SX, LX, ZX) - Per USC: 2 LIMs 

(20 ports total) 

• 1 x 10 GigE LIM with XFP optics (SR, LR, ER) - Per USC: 2 LIMs 

(2 ports total) 

• 1 x OTU-2 LIM with full C-band tunable wavelength and FEC/ 

EFEC support 

• Linear, Ring, Mesh, and Hybrid 

• Per port software configurable 

• 1+1 Linear APS/MSP 

• UPSR/SNCP 

• 2- and 4-fiber BLSR/MS-SPRing 

• 1+1 Path Protected 

• Dynamic Mesh Restoration 

• Gateway between SONET and SDH 

• IP-based and OSI-based DCC interoperability 

• ASON/GMPLS-compliant control plane software 

• Standard OSPF-based routing and MPLS-based signaling 

• Automatic topology discovery 

• In-band/out-of-band control plane 

• Manually defined or automated path/circuit route selection 

and provisioning 

• Multi-vendor, multi-layer internetworking 

• OIF UNI/E-NNI capable 

• Dimensions per chassis (88.9 cm x 58.4 cm x 65.3 cm) 

• Each chassis includes 2 non-removable DC power line filters and 

2 field-replaceable fan tray assemblies 

1 Specifications are subject to change without notification. 

For a complete functional specification, please contact your Sycamore Sales Representative. 

Power/Environmental 

Characteristics 

Fault and Performance 

Management/ 

Monitoring 

• Volts: DC –48 / -60 (input) 

• Power consumption: 

Standalone switch chassis – 2400 watts maximum 

Switch chassis (multi-chassis config) – 1800 watts max. 

Port chassis – 3500 watts maximum 

• BTUs per hour: 

Standalone switch chassis – 6,254 

Switch chassis (multi-chassis config) – 6,141 

Port chassis – 11,941 

• Operating temp (long term) 41° F to 104° F (+5° C to +40° C) 

• Humidity (non-condensing) 5% to 90% 

• Local network element alarm indication 

• Autonomous alarm forwarding 

• Automatic laser shutdown 

• Threshold crossing alerts 

• Full suite of diagnostics: loopbacks, test access, on-demand, 

bridge and roll 

Synchronization/Timing • Internal Stratum 3E timing source 

• Synchronization status messaging (SSM) 

(SONET, SDH, Hierarchical) 

• BITS/PRC interfaces 

SILVX ® Management 

Software 

Regulatory and 

Standards Compliance 

• Node management: SilvxSource ® 

• Network management: SilvxManager ® 

• Network design and planning tools: SILVX InSight ® 

• Northbound interfaces: TL1, TMF CORBA, XML, SNMP (alarms) 

SilvxOSS ® 

• Full TMN FCAPS functionality 

• Network and capacity planning applications 

• Layered services provisioning and management 

• Real-time network and service views 

• ITU-T: G.957 Optical Interfaces (SDH), G.7041 Generic Framing 

Procedure (GFP), G.707 Virtual Concatenation (VCAT), G.7042 

Link Capacity Adjustment Scheme (LCAS) 

• IEEE 802.3 

• Telcordia Technologies OSMINE processes (TIRKS, NMA) 

• NEBS Level 3 (GR-63-CORE) 

• Bellcore GR-1089-CORE 

• EN 300 386 / EN 55024 / EN 55022 

• CSA listed to UL/CSA 60950 

• Worldwide Homologation 

ISO 9001:2008

SN 16000 Intelligent Optical Switching Platform - Sycamore ...

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