Transtector Expands Ethernet Switch Product Line to Meet Increasing Demand for PoE Applications
Recently, Transtector, an Infinite Electronics brand, announced their latest Ethernet switches for industrial applications.
Overview of Transtector Systems, an Infinite Electronics Brand
Transtector manufactures various control components, including AC surge protection, DC surge protection, data surge protection, rack mounts, cabinets, and Ethernet controllers. Transtector is a subsidiary of Infinite Electronics, which develops products including RF components, assemblies, and connectivity solutions.
New Range of Ethernet Switches
Using protection technology developed by Transtector, the new range of Ethernet switches integrate surge protection for PoE applications that require simple hardware.
The new PoE switches. Image used courtesy of Transtector
The new range of switches comes in multiple configurations for various applications (commercial and industrial), including DIN rails, desktop mountable, and compact. While the number of Ethernet ports available on each variation differs, all switches utilize the same protection technology.
All switches provide all three standard speeds of 10, 100, and 1000 TX. PoE is provided on all Ethernet ports (conforming to IEEE 802.3 af/at), while additional standard ports are also available. An optional power supply can be used for providing PoE and LED indicators to display current network activity. A gauge on the switch indicates the current power consumption from PoE devices ranging from 0W to 120W, and the switches can be used in all Ethernet applications.
The new Ethernet switches have a unique Transtector surge protection. PoE means that devices down the line are both susceptible to surges and inflict surge damage to other devices on the network. Protection is guaranteed up to 4KV DC for ESD and 6KV DC for surges.
Ethernet-based Systems on an Upward Trend
The TT-WM8-4G-4GP+ switch may be most applicable to industrial environments. Many industrial systems are switching to Ethernet-based systems as it allows for high-speed, low-latency communication while supporting many simultaneously connected devices. The development of PoE (Power Over Ethernet) means that devices no longer require power connections to supplies resulting in less complex installations.
The TT-WM8-4G-4GP+ switch. Image used courtesy of Transtector
The integration of PoE (and the removal of dedicated power controllers and supplies) means that devices connected to PoE are both susceptible to surges and inflict surges onto the line. For example, a servo controller that uses PoE could malfunction while connected to a motor, and a current spike from the motor could find its way over the PoE. A power surge from the main supply could easily travel through the Ethernet cable (via PoE) and damage the servo controller.
Industrial systems utilizing PoE may consider surge control from both ends of Ethernet cables. The use of the TT-WM8-4G-4GP+ enables designers to mount switches into cabinets via commonly used DIN rails while also providing surge protection to any connected PoE devices.
The TT-WM8-4G-4GP+ also integrates LED indicators for both data and PoE power usage, which can help diagnose. The use of IP30 protection may improve reliability when used in industrial environments.
