The Alcatel 1678 Metro Core Connect (MCC) is a next-generation, ultra-high-density optical transport platform engineered for metro, aggregation, and core network environments. As part of the Alcatel-Lucent OMS family, it consolidates SDH/SONET, MPLS, OTN, and GMPLS capabilities in a single compact system. Its high bandwidth density (up to 640 Gbps per shelf) and small footprint enable scalable deployments from metro rings to national backbone networks.
Built on a flexible 16-slot architecture, each switch card delivers 40 Gbps, allowing scalable configurations with optional extension shelves for increased capacity—scaling up toward multiple terabits per node. It integrates an ISA (Integrated Service Adapter) module that provides a 20 Gbps Layer-2 switching fabric, combining ADM, broadband and wideband cross-connect, and MPLS/GMPLS functionalities in one system.
Designed to simplify central office infrastructure, the 1678 MCC merges multiple transport roles into one node, reducing complexity for fixed and mobile operators and ISPs. It supports ring and advanced mesh topologies under a full GMPLS control plane for dynamic provisioning and distributed restoration.
Ideal for converged networks requiring both capacity and flexibility, the platform supports SDH/SONET transport, Layer-2 MPLS switching, and OTN adaptation with a range of client interfaces (Ethernet, PDH, Fibre Channel, and more). Its architecture supports future upgrades, making it both resilient and future-ready.
Carritech provides full lifecycle support for the Alcatel 1678 MCC, offering global parts availability, tested hardware, repair services, and technical consulting. Our goal is to help operators maximize asset value and network reliability with expert deployment and sustained maintenance services.
High-Density Switching Capacity
Supports up to 640 Gbps per shelf, scalable to multiple terabits per node for metro, aggregation, and core network deployments.
Multi-Layer Transport Integration
Combines SDH/SONET, MPLS, OTN, and GMPLS technologies in a single, compact platform for simplified, converged transport.
Integrated Service Adapter (ISA)
Includes a 20 Gbps Layer-2 switching fabric for efficient service delivery across TDM, Ethernet, and MPLS domains.
Flexible Architecture
Modular 16-slot chassis with “any card in any slot” flexibility, allowing hot-swappable upgrades and efficient capacity expansion.
Dynamic Control Plane
GMPLS-enabled for intelligent service provisioning, mesh restoration, and automated recovery, improving resiliency and performance.
Versatile Client Interface Support
Accommodates Ethernet, PDH, Fibre Channel, SDH/SONET, and other interfaces, enabling multi-service delivery on one platform.
Simplified Infrastructure
Consolidates ADM, cross-connect, and packet switching functionality into a single node—reducing rack space, power usage, and operational complexity.
Carrier-Grade Reliability
Designed for mission-critical transport with built-in protection schemes, redundant components, and high availability features.
Future-Ready Design
Supports software-based upgrades and modular expansions to adapt to evolving network requirements and new technologies.
Comprehensive Management
Fully managed via Alcatel-Lucent’s unified management suite, with support for provisioning, monitoring, and performance reporting.
The Alcatel 1678 MCC is a high-capacity, multiservice optical platform designed to aggregate and transport traffic across metro, regional, and core networks. It offers up to 640 Gbps of switching capacity per shelf, with each of its 16 slots capable of supporting 40 Gbps switch modules. The architecture is modular and scalable, allowing for the addition of extension shelves to expand the system toward multi-terabit configurations without service interruption.
The system supports a wide range of transport protocols, including SDH/SONET, MPLS, OTN, and GMPLS, enabling seamless integration of legacy and next-generation services within a single node. The platform also includes a 20 Gbps Layer 2 switching fabric via its Integrated Service Adapter (ISA), allowing it to perform aggregation, cross-connection, and service adaptation for TDM and Ethernet traffic. This makes the 1678 MCC well-suited for delivering Carrier Ethernet, IP/MPLS VPNs, and converged voice/data services.
Supported client interfaces include PDH (E1, T1, E3, DS3), Fast and Gigabit Ethernet, Fibre Channel, and standard SDH/SONET interfaces up to STM-64/OC-192. These interfaces can be mixed within the chassis to support diverse service requirements, and native DWDM support allows for efficient wavelength transport without external transponders.
For high availability, the platform incorporates redundant switch fabrics, power supplies, and control modules, as well as carrier-grade protection mechanisms such as SNCP, MSP 1+1, UPSR, BLSR, and GMPLS-based mesh restoration. Synchronization features include support for SSM (Synchronization Status Messaging), with options for both internal and external timing sources.
The system operates with -48V DC power and is compatible with standard ETSI 19” or 23” racks. Cooling options are adaptable based on installation environment, with front and rear access designs for ease of maintenance.
Management is provided through Alcatel-Lucent’s unified management suite, offering remote access via CLI, SNMP, and graphical tools. The platform supports centralized provisioning, end-to-end service visibility, fault management, and performance monitoring, making it suitable for use in carrier networks, utility grids, and mission-critical environments.
| Period | Owner / Marketer | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mid‑2000s–2006 | Alcatel | Development and initial marketing of the 1678 Metro Core Connect (MCC) platform—a high-density optical multiservice node with ADM, MPLS, cross‑connect, and GMPLS control. |
| 2006–2016 | Alcatel‑Lucent | Continued marketing under Alcatel‑Lucent, supporting software releases (e.g. Release 4.x–5.x), with industry-standard TL1/GMPLS management tools via Alcatel 1350 suite. |
| 2016–Present | Nokia | Post-acquisition of Alcatel‑Lucent, the 1678 MCC resides within Nokia’s legacy product portfolio—documentation, parts, and support continued under Nokia branding. |
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From expert maintenance and repair to reliable part sourcing and technical consultation, we provide comprehensive support for every stage of your network’s lifecycle. Whether you’re extending the life of legacy systems or integrating with modern infrastructure, our team ensures seamless, efficient, and cost-effective solutions—so you can focus on performance, not problems.