Ethernet for the factory

Cisco Systems announced a rugged switch designed for deployment in harsh environments.

Industry-standard ethernet for the factory floor is provided using fast ethernet or gigabit ethernet.

The Cisco Catalyst 2955 intelligent switching includes security for controlling access to automation networks, high availability with redundant power supplies, network performance monitoring and quality of service (QoS) for deterministic performance of critical control traffic.

It has industrial-grade components, passive cooling, DIN-rail mounting, wide operational temperatures (-40 to +1400F) and vibration and shock resistance.

The ARC Advisory Group says availability of a Cisco switch, which is specifically designed for the plant floor, will give even greater momentum to the adoption of ethernet throughout manufacturing and automation.

This combines the leading ethernet network infrastructure with a physical package meant for a true industrial environment. Now, plant floor equipment can have the benefits of both.