As the digital age has progressed many industries have come to rely on computer technology and automation to control the machines and systems that they use to manufacture their products. Industrial Ethernet is a common technology used for this purpose and this refers to a set up which uses Ethernet network protocol for automation and control of industrial systems. An industrial Ethernet system generally comprises a number of different components with an industrial Ethernet switch being one of these.
An industrial Ethernet switch basically interconnects the various devices that make up an Ethernet system. It is used as a means of passing information between the various devices to ensure the entire system operates smoothly and correctly. There are generally a few things that need to be considered when looking for an Ethernet switch appropriate for an industrial setting, with storage space being one of these. As it operates, an Ethernet switch will learn where devices in a system are located and store their address. A switch therefore needs to have enough storage space to store the addresses of all the devices in a system to operate effectively and efficiently. If you have 50 separate devices in a system therefore, the Ethernet switches used in that system should have enough storage space for at least 50 addresses.
An industrial Ethernet switch is typically available in a couple of main styles, these being managed and unmanaged switches. Unmanaged switches tend to be more suitable for smaller systems and basically allow the various devices to interconnect and communicate automatically. Managed switches are usually more expensive but provide many more features and, while they also work automatically, they allow those people monitoring and running the system a greater degree of control over how they operate. In many cases a managed switch can be the better option even in smaller systems and this is especially the case if it is expected that an industrial system will grow and have additional devices added over time.
There are a number of manufacturers that produce industrial Ethernet switches and this includes companies such as Cisco, Magnum, GarretCom and N-Tron. The internet can be a useful place to both find information and retailers that have Ethernet switches available for sale. Some of the web stores that have Ethernet switches for use in an industrial setting include B&B Electronics and the LAN Store. However, they can also be found in-store and Best Buy is a retailer that has a selection of Ethernet switches for industrial use available.
In terms of cost, an entry level unmanaged industrial Ethernet switch can be found for less than $100, although some of the more sophisticated managed switches can rise to in excess of $1,000 to purchase.
Setting up an industrial Ethernet in a factory or industrial building can help control the system for best operation and results. An industrial Ethernet switch is an integral part of the system and depending on the size and complexity of the system there are a range of Ethernet switches to suit.