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5 Reasons You Need an Industrial Ethernet Switch

5 Reasons You Need an Industrial Ethernet Switch

A Power over Ethernet (PoE) switch is a useful device that provides electrical power and data transmission for connected network devices. PoE effectively eliminates the need for a separate power source to power an ethernet switch. There are a variety of styles, sizes, and types of PoE switches available. There are two main styles: commercial and industrial. Commercial and industrial switches can vary in port size, unmanaged, and managed Ethernet switches. It is essential to choose the right PoE switch for your needs. Here are five reasons you need an Industrial Ethernet Switch.

1. Power and Transmit Data Across a Network

Industrial PoE switches provide power for a network and enable network communication through a single ethernet cable. Industrial ethernet switches are an effective way to connect a network in a variety of industrial settings where a reliable and stable connection is crucial. Industrial ethernet switches can be used to power networks of all sizes.

PoE Switch Power + Data2. Durability and Longevity

Industrial ethernet switches are durable. They can withstand a broader range of extreme temperature variations in comparison to standard commercial ethernet switches. Commercial Ethernet switches typically work best in a temperature-controlled environment without exposure to moisture. Industrial ethernet switches are often able to operate in extreme temperatures from about -40°C to 75°C. These durable switches are designed to withstand the elements and can withstand harsh weather.

Industrial Temperature Range3. Noise Reduction

Industrial Ethernet Switches can support twisted wire and fiber optic cables. Twisted wire cabling is the most common type used and is sufficient for distances up to 100m. However, many industrial situations require fiber optic cabling instead. Fiber optic cabling can achieve a longer range of connectivity. High amounts of electrical noise can interfere with reliable network connectivity. Fiber optic cables are particularly beneficial for networks in environments with a great deal of electrical noise.

Fiber Optic vs. Twisted Pair Cables4. Unmanaged Industrial Ethernet Switch for Simple Networks

Unmanaged industrial switches are a good fit for rudimentary, low-priority networks. AETEK unmanaged industrial ethernet switches can provide connectivity for five to ten ports. Unmanaged Industrial PoE switches are capable of basic packet filtering. Unmanaged switches are also a good choice for connecting several switches. They tend to cost significantly less than managed switches.

5. Managed Industrial Ethernet Switches Provide Advanced Capabilities

Managed Ethernet switches perform all the same functions as non-managed Ethernet switches; in addition to the essential PoE functions, managed ethernet switches provide advanced network management tools. Some of the benefits of a managed industrial PoE switch are:

  • Improved traffic filtering
  • Network topography and device mapping
  • Network management, troubleshooting, and cable diagnostics
  • Industrial Protocol Management (Ethernet/IP, Modbus TCP, SNMP)
  • Enhanced network security

Managed Industrial PoE switches offer enhanced traffic filtering by incorporating IGMP filtering protocols to direct multicast packets to the appropriate port. They can forward a variety of packets to specific devices more efficiently, which results in improved determinism and a quicker communication rate across the network. Device Management System (DMS) software can provide a visual of the network topography, which can make troubleshooting and network maintenance more straightforward, this is particularly beneficial for large, complex networks. The DMS in managed industrial PoE switches also makes it simple to monitor the system, troubleshoot, and diagnose network problems.

The DMS software can show packet transmission rate, individualized port settings, spanning tree, Quality of Service (QoS), Layer 2 switching, Layer 3 switching, VLAN grouping, and other aspects of the network. Managed switches contribute to the overall network security by enabling you to fully control the port settings, hinder unauthorized access, and protect the data moving through your network. Managed switches provide advanced network management tools that allow you to control your network.

AETEK industrial ethernet switch, H70-044-60, is a managed switch featuring four ports for 60W PoE, two ports for SFP, and two ports for J45 L2. It also comprises an advanced, internal DMS software. It contains 6KV PoE surge protection and a power budget of 240W. The AETEK H70-044-60 managed industrial ethernet switch is an excellent choice for powering, connecting, and managing IP surveillance camera systems.

It’s essential to consider the purpose, environment, and usage of your network before choosing which type of ethernet switch is rights. Industrial ethernet switches provide many of the same benefits as commercial PoE switches; however, they are much more durable than their commercial counterpart. Industrial Ethernet switches are designed for maximum durability and can withstand harsh elements and extreme temperatures. Industrial ethernet switches can support twisted wire and fiber optic cables. Selecting the right type of cable for your network is a critical way to reduce electrical noise interference.

Industrial ethernet switches are available in unmanaged and managed types. Unmanaged switches will provide power and network connectivity and a limited amount of packet filtering, this type works well for simple, low-priority networks. Managed industrial PoE switches are appropriate for high-priority or complex networks that require close monitoring, troubleshooting, and advanced management features. Industrial Ethernet switches provide durable and reliable power and connectivity to networks in a variety of environments.