Industrial Ethernet Solutions

How to Select Industrial Ethernet Networking Solutions

Selecting components for an industrial Ethernet network depends on the automation architecture, connected devices and operating conditions. Beyond the number of ports, consider communication speeds, network topology, availability requirements and maintenance needs.

Industrial switches, PoE solutions and devices with specialised connectivity serve different purposes. Choosing the right components helps build a network suited to the application and supports future expansion.

Industrial Ethernet Switches: Key Differences

Key Criteria for Selecting an Industrial Ethernet Switch

Before selecting a switch, assess the communication requirements and installation conditions.

• Number and type of ports: RJ45, fibre-optic or other interfaces, depending on connected devices and distances.
• Communication speed: Fast Ethernet, Gigabit Ethernet or other speeds supported by the installation.
• Topology and redundancy: network structure, alternative paths and recovery mechanisms where required.
• Traffic management: VLANs, prioritisation, multicast handling and network monitoring requirements.
• Power supply: input voltage, power consumption, possible redundant supplies and PoE requirements.
• Environmental conditions: temperature, vibration, mounting and required protection rating.
• Security and maintenance: management functions, access control and available diagnostic capabilities.

Industrial Ethernet, PROFINET and EtherNet/IP

Although PROFINET and EtherNet/IP use Ethernet technology, each protocol has specific communication requirements and characteristics. A switch should not be considered suitable for every industrial protocol application simply because it has Ethernet ports.

In installations requiring high availability, synchronisation, diagnostics or traffic management, it is important to verify the switch capabilities and the recommendations applicable to the network architecture and communication protocol.

Industrial Ethernet Solutions from N-Tron and Helmholz

N-Tron: Ethernet Connectivity for Industrial Applications

The N-Tron range from HMS Networks includes industrial Ethernet switches for different network architectures. Depending on the product family, available options include managed and unmanaged switches, as well as devices designed for demanding industrial applications.

Helmholz: Switches for Automation Networks

Helmholz provides industrial Ethernet solutions for connecting automation equipment and expanding communication infrastructures. Selection depends on port count, management functions, interfaces and installation requirements.

Industrial Ethernet Applications

• Machine builders: communication between PLCs, HMIs, drives and automation devices.
• Manufacturing: network expansion and maintenance of production lines.
• Energy and infrastructure: connectivity for distributed systems with specific availability and environmental requirements.
• Logistics and automation: communication between control equipment and distributed devices.
• Engineering companies and system integrators: design and modernisation of industrial Ethernet network architectures.

Preparing Your Network for Future Expansion

An industrial network should meet current requirements while allowing for future development. New machinery, higher traffic volumes and additional monitoring functions may require changes to the infrastructure.

It is therefore worth considering expansion capacity, diagnostic capabilities, network management and OT cybersecurity requirements from the early stages of a project.