Often, networking hardware is the unsung hero of the automation system. The physical and electrical configuration is often overlooked as a simple task, yet it can consume much of the setup and troubleshooting time. Wago has developed two new products to simplify the process of integrating operational technology (OT) across platforms, hardware connections, and protocols.
Wago’s two new networking products are geared towards the industrial and manufacturing markets. The company’s new industrial switch provides 16 ports of unmanaged Ethernet switching, and the new industrial media converter converts signals between multiple hardware protocols for easing the tasks of upgrading or expanding automation systems.
Wago’s new 16-Port ECO unmanaged switch brings 1 Gb/s speeds per port to small and medium-sized networks. Image used courtesy of Wago
16-Port ECO Unmanaged Switch
Wago’s new industrial ECO switch is designed for small to medium-sized networks and provides 16 ports of unmanaged Ethernet switching. The switch is designed to handle speeds of up to 1 Gb/s per port, with an automatic transmission rate detection feature that makes it versatile for connecting to multiple devices of different capabilities. The automatic transmission rate detection also makes the switch more “plug-and-play” capable so technicians can spend less time configuring the switch and more time handling other tasks.
The new switch features a rugged build with vibration dampening and shock resistance, making it suitable for use in harsh manufacturing environments. Its slim design and DIN rail mounting adaptor simplify installation and physical integration with other control hardware. Alarm conditions can be set using a set of DIP switches, and the switch has built-in overvoltage and reverse-voltage protection.
Wago’s SPE media converter serves as a budget-friendly “plug-and-play” solution for long-range Ethernet connections. Image used courtesy of Wago
Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) Media Converter
Besides its Ethernet switch, Wago has also released a new industrial media converter. This device acts as an intermediate step between hardware cabling to convert between SPE and 10Base-T Ethernet connections. Data transfer through and along the SPE can be performed at 10 Mbit/s.
Besides data conversion, a pair of these converters can be used to convert data to transmit over SPE, and then convert it back at the end of the line. This is useful for long-distance data transfer, where SPE can support data transmission for up to 1000 m. This is particularly valuable for large facilities, especially those whose electrical noise does not support wireless communication or require the extra security provided by wired connections.
Like Wago’s new unmanaged switch, the new SPE media converter is built to withstand vibrations, mechanical shock, and high heat. The converter is also DIN-rail mountable and provides the same electrical protections.
Wago’s newest solutions aim to bring cost-effective connection and communication to automation systems. Image used courtesy of Adobe Stock
Cost-Effective Connection and Communication
While it might seem like a good idea to replace all hardware in an automation system, it is often cost-prohibitive to do so. Upgrading and expanding production lines often means mixing hardware components and sometimes that includes mixing communications protocols. Wago’s newest automation products, like the industrial media converter, serve as a more cost-effective approach to integrating hardware systems. The new solutions enable users to extend the lifetime and utility of legacy hardware or minimize downtime during system upgrades.
