Do you have an understanding of different types of Ethernet switches? This knowledge of different networking switches can make all the difference to your business management. Similarly, which switch you choose can also determine your network speed as well as the configuration.
A basic and straightforward Ethernet switch generates a LAN (local area network), but if you were to try other switches, it could change almost everything. It will allow you to control your routers, access points, devices, and data. This article will help you understand different types of industrial Ethernet switches to choose the best one for your needs. So, let’s get started!
Different Types of Industrial Ethernet Switches
Following are some of the most common types of switches:
Industrial PoE Ethernet switch
The abbreviation PoE stands for ‘power over Ethernet. This industrial poe ethernet switch transmits electrical power via the same cable that transfers the data. Commercial Ethernet switches are made by keeping in mind a business-related office, as they come with a temperature-controlled wiring closet. These switches do not emit vibrations or shocks within a temperature range of zero degrees to 40 degrees Celsius. When devices with other networks are connected to it, the switch automatically detects the devices compatible with Poe and starts to transmit power to those devices.
Managed Industrial Ethernet Switch
A managed industrial Ethernet switch can perform above and beyond the basic functions of other kinds of switches. This switch is designed with characteristics like ingress protection, extended operating temperature, and, last but not the least ruggedized enclosure. This switch lets the admin have more control over the industrial LAN by permitting them to configure, manage and monitor your LAN settings however you want.
This switch is also commonly known as a hardened managed Ethernet switch. This means that you have full control over your industrial LAN traffic.
Unmanaged Industrial Ethernet Switch
An unmanaged Ethernet switch is also called a ruggedized Ethernet switch, hardened Ethernet switch, ruggedized network switch, or industrial-grade switch. It connects devices on the industrial network by using the Ethernet for receiving and transmitting packeted data amid endpoints. These switches are sometimes equipped with typical ingress protection codes, also commonly known as IP codes IP67 or IP30.
This switch possesses the power to determine the rate of data to use. According to the situation, it can switch to the half-duplex mode or full-duplex mode.
KVM Switch
The KVM switch stands for keyboard, video, and mouse switch. This switch permits the user to simultaneously interconnect a monitor, keyboard, or mouse to numerous computers. This allows the user to manage many server groups while eliminating cables to save the desktop space.
Smart Switch
This is another type of switch, also popularly known as an intelligent switch. This switch is pretty much like the managed switch, with the difference that the smart switch comes with only a particular number of management selections.
Conclusion
These were some of the common types of industrial switches. Each of them has its advantages and disadvantages. Before choosing any option for your business use, make sure it fits all your needs and gives you the convenience you want.