Field-mountable Ethernet switches: Be free from the cabinet

What if you could reduce the number and length of cables and devices to your cabinet?

With the increased use of Ethernet-based systems, more Ethernet switches are being used to create the necessary controls topology. Traditionally, Ethernet switches are mounted inside a remote cabinet or the main control cabinet. This leads to long and bulky ethernet cable runs to each Ethernet device, which can increase cost and the size the cabinet. 

The image below shows a traditional controls topology with an Ethernet run from the cabinet to each device as appoximately 20 m for a total of 80 m.

ifm now offers a low-cost alternative that allows Ethernet switches to be located outside the control cabinet without sacrificing performance and environmental protection. This reduces the bulky cable runs and effectively reduces cabinet sizes, making build and installation times faster.

In the image below, the same devices connected to a new Ethernet switch is approximately 40 m total run, nearly a 50% reduction!

Main features

• 6-port unmanaged industrial Ethernet switch
• Compatible with all common automation protocols and IIoT applications
• Flexible voltage supply with or without daisy chain
• Increased operating voltage (8...32 VDC) and temperature range (-25...70 °C) make it suitable for mobile machines 
• Robust housings, including a food-grade version with IP67 and IP69K protection ratings for use outside control cabinets