Optical amplifiers are used in amplified nodes such as hub nodes, amplified OADM nodes, and line amplifier nodes. There are two forms of amplifiers, the Optical Preamplifier (OPT-PRE) and the Optical Booster (OPT-BST) amplifier. The optical amplifier card architecture includes an optical plug-in module with a controller that manages optical power, laser current, and temperature control loops. The amplifier also manages communication with the TCC2 and OAM&P functions such as provisioning, controls, and alarms.