Stratix Industrial Switch - Selecting a Managed Switch

Summary

Selecting the right managed switch for an industrial network can be challenging due to the wide variety of options available. Key considerations include vendor support, switch layer functionality (Layer 2 vs. Layer 3), environmental suitability, scalability, and speed requirements. The script highlights different types of switches, such as unmanaged and fully managed, and discusses important features like combo ports, fiber connectivity, and power over Ethernet. It also covers advanced options like SIP Sync for time-sensitive systems and the benefits of using Cisco-based platforms for better compatibility and network efficiency. The goal is to match the right switch to the specific network needs.

Takeaways

• 😀 Selecting a managed switch can be overwhelming due to the many options available, such as Rockwell’s 2500, 5500, and 5800 models.
• 😀 Compatibility with vendors and proper support is crucial when choosing a network switch. Rockwell and Cisco provide strong backing for industrial networks.
• 😀 Layer 2 switches work based on MAC addresses, while Layer 3 switches understand IP addresses and can route between networks.
• 😀 A Layer 3 switch enables routing between different networks, while a Layer 2 switch typically handles communication within the same network.
• 😀 Industrial environments require rugged switches that can withstand high temperatures, vibrations, and dust. Off-the-shelf switches may not be suitable for critical processes.
• 😀 The speed of the network is an important consideration; switches range from 100 Mbps and 1 Gbps to 10 Gbps for evolving data requirements.
• 😀 Fiber connections, often used in industrial settings, may be required for longer distances or to reduce machine noise in network traffic.
• 😀 Switches need to be compatible with different mounting options, such as rack-mounted or DIN rail-mounted, depending on the setup.
• 😀 Managed switches come with various features, including full and light software versions, offering different levels of control and functionality.
• 😀 Power over Ethernet (PoE) functionality is available on some switches, allowing devices to be powered directly through the Ethernet cable.
• 😀 Additional features like device-level rings, conformal coating, network address translation (NAT), and SIP sync are available for more advanced industrial applications.

Q & A

Why are there so many options for managed switches in the industrial environment?

The wide variety of managed switches exists to cater to different needs in industrial networks, such as the number of ports required, the type of connections (copper or fiber), and specific features like layer 2 or layer 3 functionality. Each switch model is tailored for particular applications to ensure compatibility and reliability in varying environments.

What is the difference between layer 2 and layer 3 switches?

A layer 2 switch operates by forwarding data based on MAC addresses and works within the same network. Layer 3 switches, on the other hand, can route traffic between different networks by understanding IP addresses and routing the data accordingly.

What are some important factors to consider when selecting a managed switch?

Critical factors include the vendor's support and compatibility, environmental durability (e.g., temperature and vibration resistance), speed requirements, connection types (copper vs. fiber), and the form factor (e.g., rack-mounted or DIN rail-mounted).

Why is support a critical factor when choosing a managed switch?

When setting up industrial networks, challenges and questions inevitably arise. Reliable support ensures that issues can be resolved quickly, minimizing downtime. The availability of support from both the vendor and third-party partners (like Rockwell) is vital.

What role do Cisco protocols play in industrial switches?

Cisco protocols are used in industrial switches to ensure compatibility with IT networks. This allows for seamless integration and communication between industrial and IT environments, making the switch more versatile for industrial applications.

What does it mean when a switch has combo ports?

Combo ports refer to ports that can either be used for copper Ethernet connections or fiber connections via Small Form-Factor Pluggable (SFP) modules, offering flexibility in network design and future upgrades.

What is SIP sync, and why is it important for industrial networks?

SIP sync is a protocol used in motion control systems to synchronize clocks across devices. It accounts for time delays in packet switching, which is crucial for time-sensitive operations where precise coordination of actions is required.

How do SFP modules differ from regular copper connections?

SFP modules are used for fiber optic connections and cannot auto-negotiate speed like copper Ethernet connections. When using fiber, you need to specify the required speed and type of fiber (single-mode or multimode) ahead of time.

What are the key differences between the Stratus 5700 and Stratus 5400 switches?

The Stratus 5700 offers advanced features like inter-VLAN routing and additional gigabit options, while the Stratus 5400 is a more versatile layer 3 switch that can handle dynamic routing between networks and provide additional features like SIP sync and network address translation.

Why is it important to consider mounting options when choosing a managed switch?

The mounting option is critical because it affects where the switch can be installed within the industrial environment. Some switches are designed for rack-mounted setups, while others are suitable for DIN rail mounting, which is common in industrial applications.