Alcatel-Lucent BRMA 10Base-T/100Base-TX Connecting Box

The Alcatel‑Lucent BRMA (also identified by part number 3BA56170ACAB010842) is a compact and robust connecting box designed for Ethernet network interfacing. This unit provides 10Base‑T and 100Base‑TX connectivity, typically serving as a media conversion or termination point between copper and fiber optic cabling in telecom, industrial, and enterprise environments. Its rugged construction and reliable performance make it suitable for deployment in central offices, remote cabinets, and outdoor enclosures.

Overview

The BRMA connecting box is part of Alcatel‑Lucent's access network portfolio, used to interface Ethernet services over different physical media. It features one or more RJ‑45 ports for 10/100Base‑TX copper connections and may include SFP or fixed‑fiber ports for uplink to a fiber backbone. The unit supports auto‑negotiation and MDI/MDIX crossover detection for simple plug‑and‑play installation. Its compact form factor allows for easy mounting on walls, DIN rails, or in equipment racks.

Key Features

• 10/100Base‑TX copper ports with auto‑negotiation and auto‑MDI/MDIX

• Optional fiber uplink via SFP or fixed optical interface

• Store‑and‑forward switching with low latency

• LED indicators for power, link, and activity status

• Wide operating temperature range for outdoor or industrial use

• Compact, rugged metal enclosure

• Power over Ethernet (PoE) pass‑through on select variants

Technical Specifications

• Copper Ports: 1 or 2x RJ‑45, 10/100Base‑TX, auto‑negotiation

• Fiber Ports: 1x SFP slot (or fixed SC/ST connector, depending on variant)

• Forwarding Rate: 148,800 pps for 100 Mbps, line rate

• MAC Table: 1,024 entries

• Power Supply: 12‑48 VDC (terminal block) or 5 VDC via external adapter

• Power Consumption: 5 W typical

• Operating Temperature: -20°C to +60°C

• Humidity: 5% to 95% non‑condensing

• Dimensions: 120 mm (W) × 80 mm (H) × 30 mm (D) (approx.)

• Mounting: DIN rail, wall, or rack (optional brackets)

Applications

This connecting box is used in telecom access networks to extend Ethernet services over fiber, in industrial automation for connecting field devices, and in enterprise buildings for interconnecting network segments. It is particularly useful in environments where space is limited and reliability is critical.

Integration and Management

The BRMA is a passive or minimally managed device; configuration is typically limited to DIP switches for speed/duplex or fiber mode selection. It is transparent to network management systems, but link status can be monitored via the front‑panel LEDs. For variants with SNMP support, remote monitoring is available.

Installation and Maintenance

Mount the unit securely, connect power, and plug in the copper and fiber cables. The device auto‑negotiates and begins forwarding traffic. No regular maintenance is required, but periodic cleaning of optical connectors and checking of LED status is recommended.

Conclusion

The Alcatel‑Lucent BRMA connecting box provides a simple, cost‑effective solution for 10/100 Mbps Ethernet media conversion and extension, with the durability and reliability expected of carrier‑grade access equipment.