Alcatel-Lucent 3EM22617AAAE 9500 MPT-HL Microwave Radio Transceiver

The Alcatel‑Lucent 3EM22617AAAE is a high‑performance microwave radio transceiver from the 9500 MPT‑HL (High‑Line) series. It is designed as an outdoor unit (ODU) for point‑to‑point packet microwave links, delivering carrier‑class capacity and reliability over long distances. This transceiver is particularly suited for mobile backhaul, enterprise WAN extension, and critical infrastructure communication where fiber is unavailable or too costly.

Overview

The 9500 MPT‑HL transceiver operates in licensed microwave bands and supports a wide range of channel bandwidths, enabling aggregate data rates up to several gigabits per second. The 3EM22617AAAE variant includes enhanced linearization and low‑noise receivers for optimal performance even in adverse weather conditions. It is fully integrated with the 9500 indoor unit (IDU) for traffic aggregation, switching, and network management, making it a complete solution for modern packet‑based microwave transport.

Key Features

• Native packet transport with MPLS‑TP and MPLS support

• Adaptive modulation and coding (ACM) up to 4096QAM (depending on band)

• High output power and dynamic power control (ATPC)

• Integrated TDM over packet (TDMoP) for legacy circuit emulation

• Supports up to 2 Gbps aggregate throughput with dual‑polarization (XPIC)

• Built‑in forward error correction (FEC) for improved link budget

• Outdoor enclosure with IP67 rating and built‑in lightning protection

Technical Specifications

• Frequency Bands: 6‑42 GHz (selectable via plug‑in modules)

• Channel Bandwidth: 7, 14, 28, 56, 112 MHz

• Max Data Rate: 2 Gbps (aggregate) in 112 MHz with XPIC

• Modulation Schemes: QPSK to 4096QAM (adaptive)

• Output Power: up to +30 dBm (EIRP depending on antenna)

• Antenna Interface: Standard waveguide, PDR70 or similar

• Power Input: -48 VDC, 150 W max

• Operating Temperature: -45°C to +60°C

Applications

This transceiver is ideal for high‑capacity mobile backhaul (4G/5G), trunk links between aggregation nodes, and disaster recovery connections. Its ability to transport both Ethernet and TDM makes it a versatile choice for operators transitioning from legacy to all‑IP networks. Additionally, the MPLS‑TP capability enables end‑to‑end OAM and performance monitoring.

Compatibility

The 3EM22617AAAE is compatible with the Alcatel‑Lucent 9500 IDU (e.g., MPR‑e and MPT‑HL indoor units) and is managed by the 9500 NMS. It can interoperate with other microwave radios using standard frequency and modulation profiles, though optimal performance is achieved within the 9500 family.

Installation and Maintenance

Installation involves mounting the transceiver on a mast or tower, aligning the antenna using built‑in alignment tools, and connecting the power/data cable to the IDU. The unit provides LED indicators for link quality and fault status. Remote software upgrades and configuration changes are possible via the IDU management interface, reducing the need for site visits.

Conclusion

The Alcatel‑Lucent 3EM22617AAAE 9500 MPT‑HL Microwave Radio Transceiver offers a compelling combination of high capacity, robust environmental resilience, and advanced packet‑aware features. It enables operators to build reliable, high‑bandwidth microwave networks that meet the ever‑increasing demands of mobile broadband and private connectivity, all while simplifying operations and lowering total cost of ownership.