Alcatel-Lucent ECNT-C 3FE25676 BA AK 06 Termination Card

The Alcatel‑Lucent ECNT‑C (part number 3FE25676 BA AK 06, also identified as VAUIAKCAAF) is a line termination card designed for use in Alcatel‑Lucent’s access network equipment, such as DSLAMs and multi‑service access nodes (MSANs). This card provides the physical interface between the central office and the subscriber copper loops, handling both digital subscriber line (DSL) and plain old telephone service (POTS) signals. It is a critical component for delivering broadband and voice services over existing telephone wiring.

Overview

The ECNT‑C card is part of the access node’s subscriber line interface module (SLIM) family. It typically hosts 24 or 48 subscriber ports (depending on model) and incorporates high‑voltage protection, line driving, and impedance matching circuitry. The card communicates with the main controller via a high‑speed backplane bus, and it supports various xDSL technologies, including ADSL2+, VDSL2, and G.fast, as well as legacy POTS using splitterless or external splitter configurations. Its design prioritises signal integrity and noise immunity, ensuring stable performance over long loop lengths.

Key Features

• High density: 48 ports per card (or 24 in some variants)

• Supports ADSL2+, VDSL2 (up to 35b profile), and G.fast on short loops

• Integrated POTS splitter for voice and data coexistence

• Built‑in test access for line diagnostics and metallic loop testing

• Programmable transmit and receive gain control

• Over‑voltage protection (surge and lightning) per ITU‑T K.20/21

• Hot‑swappable for field replacement

• Management via SNMP and TL1 for loop monitoring

Technical Specifications

• Ports: 48x RJ‑21 (Telco 50‑pin) or 24x RJ‑45 (depending on connector module)

• Line Interface: 100 Ω impedance, balanced

• Frequency Range: Up to 106 MHz (for VDSL2 profile 35b)

• Power Dissipation: 45 W typical, 75 W max

• Surge Protection: 6 kV/3 kA (8/20 µs)

• Diagnostic Features: SELT, DELT, and metallic test (R, L, C measurements)

• Backplane Interface: High‑speed serial bus (≥ 1 Gbps)

• Operating Temperature: 0°C to 45°C (chassis ambient)

• Dimensions: Standard access line card format (height ~ 130 mm)

Applications

This termination card is used in central office and remote cabinet DSLAMs to connect thousands of subscribers to high‑speed internet, VoIP, and IPTV services. It is also deployed in multi‑tenant units (MTUs) and fibre‑to‑the‑cabinet (FTTC) nodes. The card’s test capabilities allow operators to proactively identify line faults, thereby reducing truck rolls and customer complaints.

Integration and Management

The ECNT‑C integrates with the Alcatel‑Lucent 5520 AMS (Access Management System) and supports remote firmware upgrades and parameter tuning. It provides per‑port statistics including data rate, signal‑to‑noise ratio (SNR), and error counts. Alarms are generated for conditions such as loss of signal, excessive errors, or overheating.

Installation and Maintenance

Install the card into an empty slot of the chassis, ensuring it is firmly seated, and then secure the front panel. The chassis management software will automatically detect the card and load the appropriate drivers. Maintenance involves periodic cleaning of connector pins and monitoring environmental conditions. The card can be replaced without service interruption if the chassis supports line card redundancy.

Conclusion

The Alcatel‑Lucent ECNT‑C 3FE25676 BA AK 06 termination card is a robust and feature‑rich solution for copper access networks. Its high port density, comprehensive diagnostics, and adherence to standards ensure reliable delivery of next‑generation broadband services over legacy infrastructure.