Ethernet switches

It differs from a standard office switch mainly due to:

• its rugged construction (for example, a metal housing)
• a wider operating temperature range
• improved resistance to vibration and electrical interference

Industrial switches often support network redundancy, which helps ensure reliable data transmission even in case of failures.

They are used to connect industrial devices such as PLCs, sensors, and cameras, enabling stable and reliable communication in harsh conditions.

Typical application areas include, for example:

• factory and process automation
• electrical and water utility systems
• energy and power plant networks
• transportation technology and intelligent transportation systems (ITS)
• security and surveillance systems
• solar power plants and other outdoor installations

In these environments, the network must operate reliably even under demanding conditions such as temperature fluctuations, vibration, humidity, and electromagnetic interference.

Industrial switches are also used in mobile equipment such as trains and vehicles. In these applications, M12 connectors are often used, as they are specifically designed to withstand vibration, shock, and harsh environmental conditions.

Industrial switches typically support an extended operating temperature range, for example –40 to +75 °C, and are built to withstand both mechanical stress and electrical disturbances.

Their construction typically includes:

• a reinforced metal enclosure
• at least an IP30 protection rating
• higher protection options, such as IP67, for more demanding applications

Switches equipped with M12 connectors are particularly well suited for environments with heavy vibration, dust, or moisture.

Unmanaged switches, on the other hand, are simple plug-and-play devices that operate without any configuration and provide only basic connectivity between devices. They are easy to use, reliable, and cost-effective, making them the ideal choice for smaller and simpler network setups.

Most industrial switches support IEEE 802.3af and 802.3at standards, enabling power to be delivered directly to connected network devices. Under the PoE+ standard, a switch can provide up to 30 W of power per port, which is sufficient for devices such as IP cameras, wireless access points, and other network equipment.

Antaira’s PoE+ switches typically operate at 48–55 VDC, in line with industry standards, ensuring compatibility with most PoE-enabled devices. In addition, low-voltage PoE solutions (12–36 V DC) are also available, making them particularly suitable for industrial applications where the available supply voltage is limited or non-standard.

Installation flexibility is essential in industrial environments. Many Antaira switches are equipped with DIN-rail mounting as well as options for wall mounting, enabling fast and versatile installation in different applications.

For more demanding environments, higher protection ratings are available. For example, switches equipped with M12 connectors can achieve up to IP67 protection, making them completely dust-tight and resistant to water. These models are ideal for outdoor installations, mobile equipment, and other harsh environments.

In addition, many models support a wide input voltage range, typically for example 12–48 V DC, which increases flexibility across different industrial applications. Power management is designed so that the switch automatically detects a failure in the primary power source and seamlessly switches to the backup supply. This so-called Redundant Power Input architecture minimizes the risk of a single point of failure and ensures continuous operation.

This feature is particularly critical in applications such as production lines, energy infrastructure, and transportation systems, where network downtime can lead to significant disruptions or costs.