The Marconi SMA‑16 3.1 is a high-capacity, modular SDH (Synchronous Digital Hierarchy) access and aggregation node, designed to provide robust transport services over STM‑16 optical interfaces. Positioned near the upper tier of Marconi’s SMA product line, the SMA‑16 3.1 offers advanced cross-connect functionality, scalability, and service flexibility, making it suitable for deployment in metro aggregation layers, regional transport networks, and mission-critical enterprise or government communications infrastructure.
With its STM‑16 support (2.5 Gbps), the SMA‑16 3.1 is capable of aggregating vast volumes of lower-order services such as E1s, T1s, and Fast Ethernet streams through efficient grooming and switching at both VC‑12 and VC‑4 levels. It is a carrier-class solution offering high availability, with built-in redundancy options, hot-swappable components, and robust protection schemes to maintain service continuity under fault conditions.
The SMA‑16 3.1 is also notable for its long-standing deployment history. Even though the platform has transitioned into legacy status, many carriers and infrastructure operators continue to rely on it for its stability, deterministic performance, and standards-based interoperability with other SDH equipment. Carritech continues to support these networks by sourcing fully tested SMA‑16 3.1 shelves, interface cards, and replacement modules—ensuring continued uptime and operational efficiency for legacy networks.
High-Speed SDH Transport: Supports STM‑16 (2.5 Gbps) optical transmission, enabling high-bandwidth backbone or aggregation layer connectivity.
Comprehensive Cross-Connect: Offers full non-blocking VC‑12 and VC‑4 level cross-connect, ideal for grooming and switching large numbers of services across SDH containers.
Multi-Service Capability: Supports a variety of tributary interfaces including E1, T1, Fast Ethernet, and legacy PDH services.
Redundancy & Reliability: Built with carrier-grade redundancy in mind, including dual control cards, redundant power feeds, and automatic protection switching.
Modular Architecture: Designed with a chassis that accommodates various plug-in modules, allowing flexibility in port density and service types.
Robust Protection Schemes: Includes SNCP (Sub-Network Connection Protection), MSP (Multiplex Section Protection), and automatic switching features to ensure service resilience.
Integrated Management: Fully manageable through local and remote interfaces using standard telecom protocols and legacy Marconi NMS platforms.
Optimized for Long-Term Deployment: With a durable physical design and telecom-standard MTBF ratings, the SMA‑16 3.1 is suited to long-term SDH network applications.
Chassis and Form Factor:
Rack-mounted modular sub-rack system
Typically 9U in height for main shelf
Multiple card slots for line, tributary, control, and management modules
Line Interfaces:
STM‑1 (155 Mbps), STM‑4 (622 Mbps), STM‑16 (2.5 Gbps) optical interfaces
Fixed or SFP-based optics at 1310 nm or 1550 nm
Support for short, medium, and long reach applications depending on module
Tributary Interfaces:
E1 (2 Mbps), T1, Fast Ethernet (10/100 Mbps)
GFP and LCAS support on Ethernet interfaces for efficient encapsulation over SDH
Supports up to several hundred E1s per fully configured chassis
Cross-Connect Capacity:
Full VC‑12 and VC‑4 non-blocking matrix
High scalability for service aggregation and grooming
Protection and Redundancy:
Dual control and switching fabric cards
Dual power feed support (-48 VDC)
Hot-swappable line and tributary cards
SNCP and MSP protection schemes for all traffic levels
Power Supply:
-48 VDC telecom-standard input
Redundant power modules optional or standard depending on configuration
Cooling System:
Active fan-based cooling
Monitored temperature control with replaceable fan trays
Operating Environment:
Temperature: 0°C to +45°C
Humidity: up to 95% non-condensing
Designed for central office, exchange, or controlled environment deployments
Management Interfaces:
Local craft port access
Remote SNMP/TL1 over Ethernet
Integration with Marconi’s legacy network management systems (e.g., OMS)
Compliance:
ITU-T G.707, G.783, G.806
ETSI mechanical standards
CE, EMC, and Telcordia compliant for telecom environments
| Time Period | Brand / Company | Role / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Early 2000s – 2006 | Marconi Communications / Marconi Corporation plc | The SMA‑16 3.1 was introduced as a high-capacity SDH multiplexer, offering STM‑16 transport for metropolitan and regional SDH networks. |
| 2006 – Present | Ericsson (legacy support only) | Following the acquisition of Marconi’s telecom business, Ericsson phased out active promotion of the SMA‑16 3.1, but support continued under legacy service agreements. |
| Present (Secondary Market) | Independent Resellers & Support Specialists (e.g., Carritech) | Carritech supports operators with ongoing SMA‑16 3.1 deployments by sourcing tested hardware, modules, and accessories—ensuring continued network reliability in legacy SDH environments. |
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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.