To identify an Ericsson radio unit correctly, read three things from its product label: the product number (a KRC code such as KRC 161 637/1), the revision state (R-state, such as R1A or R2B), and the serial number. The marketing name, for example “Radio 4415 B3”, tells you the model family and the 3GPP band, but the KRC number is what pins down the exact variant. This guide explains how to read these codes and how to use them when buying or replacing used Ericsson radios.
Why the product number matters more than the model name
Ericsson Radio System units are sold under short model names such as Radio 2217, Radio 2219, Radio 4415 or Radio 4428. Each of these families is built in several band variants, and each band variant has its own product number. A buyer who only asks for “Radio 4415” may receive a unit for the wrong band, which cannot be retuned in the field.
The product number is also what operators and maintenance teams record in their spare-parts lists, RMA paperwork and node hardware inventory. Matching on the KRC number, not the name alone, is the simplest way to avoid ordering mistakes.
Anatomy of an Ericsson product label
Ericsson product numbers follow a letter-and-digit structure, with the revision state written as a separate field. On a radio unit label you will normally find:
- Product name – the commercial name, for example Radio 2219 B1.
- Product number – a three-letter class code followed by digits and a suffix, for example KRC 161 622/1.
- Revision (R-state) – a code such as R1A, R1C or R2B that identifies the hardware revision of that product number.
- Serial number – unique to the individual unit and used for warranty, RMA and traceability.
The class code: KRC vs KDU
In practice, Ericsson radio units carry product numbers starting with KRC, while baseband (digital) units carry numbers starting with KDU. For example, the Ericsson Baseband 6630 is KDU 137 848/11 and the Baseband 6648 is KDU 137 0015/11. If a listing calls something a “radio” but quotes a KDU number, or the other way round, ask for a label photo before going further.
The sequence number and suffix
The digits after KRC 161 identify the specific product. The numbering is not a readable formula: the band is not encoded in a way you can decode by eye, so each KRC number has to be checked against a reference list. The suffix after the slash (/1, /2 and so on) separates variants of a product number. Treat a different suffix as a different item until you have confirmed it is an acceptable substitute for your network.
The R-state
The R-state marks the hardware revision of a given product number. Units with the same KRC number but different R-states perform the same function, but later revisions can include hardware changes. If your operator has an approved-revision list, or your software baseline has known revision requirements, check the R-state as well as the product number.
Reference table: KRC numbers for common Ericsson radios
The table below lists the product numbers of Ericsson radio units we supply, so you can see how one model family uses different KRC numbers for each band.
| Product name | Product number | Configuration | 3GPP band |
|---|---|---|---|
| Radio 2217 B7 | KRC 161 428/1 | 2T2R | B7 (2600 MHz) |
| Radio 2217 B20 | KRC 161 549/1 | 2T2R | B20 (800 MHz) |
| Radio 2219 B1 | KRC 161 622/1 | 2T2R | B1 (2100 MHz) |
| Radio 2219 B8 | KRC 161 670/1 | 2T2R | B8 (900 MHz) |
| Radio 4415 B1 | KRC 161 635/1 | 4T4R | B1 (2100 MHz) |
| Radio 4415 B3 | KRC 161 637/1 | 4T4R | B3 (1800 MHz) |
| Radio 4415 B7 | KRC 161 495/1 | 4T4R | B7 (2600 MHz) |
| Radio 4428 B3 | KRC 161 713/1 | 4T4R | B3 (1800 MHz) |
| Radio 4429 B3 | KRC 161 782/1 | 4T4R | B3 (1800 MHz) |
Two points stand out. First, the three Radio 4415 variants have unrelated sequence numbers (635, 637 and 495), which confirms that you cannot guess a KRC number from the band. Second, three different models cover Band 3 – the Radio 4415 B3, the Radio 4428 B3 and the Radio 4429 B3 – and they are not interchangeable part numbers even though they share a band.
Reading the “B” in the model name
The “B” suffix in names such as Radio 2219 B1 or Radio 4415 B7 refers to the 3GPP operating band. B1 is 2100 MHz, B3 is 1800 MHz, B7 is 2600 MHz, B8 is 900 MHz and B20 is 800 MHz. Some units sold for the Americas are labelled with combined designations such as B2 B25. Always confirm the band against the frequencies your licence covers, not just against the name on a quotation.
Older Ericsson radios use the RRUS naming, for example RRUS 11 or RRUS 61, followed by a band designation. These are earlier generations than the 2xxx and 4xxx Radio System families, so check the model name and KRC number together when you are replacing legacy units.
How to verify a used unit before you buy
1. Ask for clear label photos
Request a sharp photo of the full product label for each unit, or for a sample of a batch. The product number, R-state and serial number should all be readable. A label that is scratched, covered or replaced is a reason to ask more questions.
2. Match the KRC number to your requirement
Compare the product number on the label with the number in your spare-parts list or network design, including the suffix. If the seller quotes only a model name, ask for the KRC number in writing.
3. Check the R-state if it matters to you
For most swap and expansion projects the product number is the main requirement. If your organisation restricts revisions, list the accepted R-states on your purchase order.
4. Confirm the unit reports the same data on site
Once a radio is connected and recognised by the node, the hardware inventory shown in your management system reports its product number, revision and serial number. Comparing this with the physical label is a quick way to confirm that what was shipped is what was ordered.
5. Inspect the physical condition
Check connectors, the CPRI/SFP ports, the power connector, the housing and the mounting points. Our separate guide to Ericsson Baseband 6630 vs 6648 covers how to match the baseband side of the site when you plan radio replacements.
Common identification mistakes
- Ordering by name only. “Radio 2219” without a band could be B1, B3, B8 or another variant.
- Assuming same band means same part. Radio 4415 B3, 4428 B3 and 4429 B3 all serve Band 3 but have different product numbers.
- Ignoring the suffix. /1 and /2 can be different variants of the same base number.
- Mixing up radio and baseband codes. KRC numbers are radios; KDU numbers are digital units.
FAQ
Where is the product number on an Ericsson radio?
It is printed on the product label on the unit housing, together with the product name, R-state and serial number. It is also visible in the node hardware inventory once the unit is connected.
Can I tell the band from the KRC number alone?
No. The band is shown in the product name (for example B3), but the KRC sequence number is not a code you can decode. Use a reference list such as the table above.
Are different R-states of the same KRC number interchangeable?
They are the same product number and perform the same function, but later revisions can contain hardware changes. If your network has revision requirements, check them before ordering.
What should I send a supplier when requesting a quote?
Send the exact KRC numbers (with suffix), the quantity per number and any R-state restrictions. Ask for label photos of the units offered so you can check them before payment.
Get the right Ericsson radio, first time
Telecombts supplies used and refurbished Ericsson radio units including the Radio 2219 B1, Radio 4415, Radio 4428 and Radio 2217 families, plus Ericsson baseband units. Browse the full range in our Ericsson category. All units are tested before shipment and come with a 90-day warranty, and we ship worldwide in secure packaging. Send us the KRC numbers you need via WhatsApp +86 187 3329 4669 / +86 139 3088 8705, email jack@telecombts.com, or use the form at https://telecombts.com/contact-us/.