The Aviat CTR 8500 is a generation of converged Microwave Routers, a category of products that are designed to simplify mobile operator networks and lower total cost of ownership. Unlike current microwave solutions, which require separate co-located router device, CTR 8500 is the first microwave product to incorporate a full-featured router to reduce the number of devices, save money, and enable new services revenue. CTR 8540 delivers comprehensive microwave and Layer 2 Carrier Ethernet features, all with the highest radio and interface density in the smallest form factor, to really set it apart from the pack. The CTR 8500 has a flexible, open software based architecture, so it can be deployed as a Layer 2 microwave solution, but is IP/MPLS and SDN-ready via simple software upgrade when needed. A flexible, software defined platform, CTR 8500 enables service providers to save money, simplify their network, and safeguard their future.