Graded Industrial Ethernet switches for diverse applications

Siemens Automation and Drives (A&D) has developed an entire range of new Industrial Ethernet switches. The new Scalance X-300 product line consists of compact switches that offer functions from the IT area as well as having properties for industrial use. The primary area of application is found in high-performance plant networks with connection to a corporate network via Gigabit Ethernet. The new switches of the product families Scalance X-100 and Scalance X-200 are now equipped with a high port density of up to 24 RJ-45 ports per module. They are suitable for setting up Industrial Ethernet networks with data rates of 10/100 megabits/second, and they have a rugged metal housing for space-saving installation in the control cabinet. In addition, the X-200 switches have an integral redundancy management function.

By means of an integral redundancy manager, the new Scalance X-300 product line offers high-speed media redundancy even for large networks. The switches support IT standards and are suitable for establishing virtual networks (VLANs). They learn multicast sources and destinations autonomously (IGMP Internet Group Management Protocol Snooping), and thus filter multicast data traffic and limit the load on the network. The rugged metal housing in the dimensions of the Simatic S7-300 controller enables space-saving installation on standard mounting rails, S7-300 mounting rails or direct on the wall in different mounting positions. The devices have Profinet diagnostics, SNMP access, integral Web server and automatic e-mail transmission for remote diagnostics and signaling over the network.

The new Scalance X-100 devices are “unmanaged” switches that have a redundant power supply and on-site diagnostics using LEDs. The Scalance X-200 and 300 product series are “managed” Industrial Ethernet switches for space-saving installation in the control cabinet. In conjunction with an IE FC RJ45 Plug, the integral retaining collars provide the sockets of the switches with strain and bending relief. The switches have a redundant voltage supply and a fault signaling contact. On-site diagnostics is carried out using LEDs. The Scalance X-200 and X-300 devices can be integrated into network management systems via SNMP. In addition, the devices are accessed for diagnostics purposes via a Web browser. As Profinet-IO devices, the X-200 and X-300 products can be easily integrated into the configuration and system diagnostics of Step7. The redundancy manager function now built into the X-200 switches enables the establishment of high-speed redundant ring structures.

Further information can be found on the Internet at: www.siemens.com/scalance