What’s the Difference Between Industrial Switches and Ethernet Switches?

Industrial switches and Ethernet switches are essential network devices, each serving different environments and requirements. While they perform similar functions in managing and directing data within networks, industrial switches are specifically designed to withstand harsh environments and meet the unique demands of industrial settings. Let’s explore how industrial switches differ from traditional Ethernet switches and why they are crucial for industrial applications.

1. Environmental Resistance

• Industrial Switches: Built to withstand extreme conditions, industrial switches are housed in rugged enclosures that protect against dust, moisture, and extreme temperatures. They are often rated with IP (Ingress Protection) standards, ensuring durability and longevity in harsh environments. Industrial switches can handle temperatures ranging from -40°C to 85°C, making them suitable for outdoor applications or industrial sites with fluctuating environmental conditions.
• Ethernet Switches: Designed for controlled environments like offices or data centers, standard Ethernet switches are less resistant to extreme temperatures, dust, and moisture. They typically operate within a temperature range of 0°C to 40°C, making them ideal for indoor use but not suited for industrial or outdoor environments.

2. Reliability and Longevity

• Industrial Switches: Reliability is critical in industrial environments where equipment failure can lead to costly downtime. Industrial switches are designed with redundant power supplies and failover features, ensuring continuous operation even during power disruptions. These switches are often equipped with shock and vibration resistance, which is essential in factories with heavy machinery or transportation applications.
• Ethernet Switches: While reliable for office settings, Ethernet switches lack industrial switches' rugged build and failover features. They are typically not designed with redundant systems or shock-resistant materials, making them less ideal for environments where stability and uptime are critical.

3. Power Over Ethernet (PoE) Capabilities

• Industrial Switches: Many industrial switches come with PoE+ (Power over Ethernet Plus) support, allowing them to power devices like cameras, sensors, and IoT devices directly through the network cable. This capability is essential for industries where powering devices directly from a centralized source reduces cable clutter and enhances operational efficiency.
• Ethernet Switches: While Ethernet switches in office settings may also support PoE, the power requirements in industrial applications are often higher, making PoE+ or PoE++ support necessary. Ethernet switches with basic PoE support may fall short in environments requiring high-power applications.

Note: PoE delivers up to 15.4 watts of power, PoE+ provides up to 30 watts, and PoE++ provides up to 60 or 100 watts, depending on the type. Each PoE standard supports different devices

4. Network Redundancy and Security

• Industrial Switches: Industrial networks require robust security and redundancy protocols. Industrial switches often support advanced protocols like RSTP (Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol), ERPS (Ethernet Ring Protection Switching), and MRP (Media Redundancy Protocol). These protocols are crucial for maintaining uninterrupted communication across complex industrial networks, ensuring data reaches critical devices even if one path fails.
• Ethernet Switches: Standard Ethernet switches, designed primarily for less demanding networks, may not support these advanced redundancy protocols. While they offer security features suitable for office networks, they may lack the robust protection required in industrial settings, such as guarding against electromagnetic interference (EMI).

5. Cost Differences

• Industrial Switches: Due to their specialized features, rugged construction, and enhanced capabilities, industrial switches generally come at a higher price point. This cost is justified by their longevity and ability to perform reliably under harsh conditions, which ultimately reduces downtime and maintenance costs.
• Ethernet Switches: Standard Ethernet switches are cost-effective for typical office applications but lack industrial switches' durability and specialized features. They are economical for non-industrial settings with minimal environmental and operational demands.

 

Conclusion

Industrial switches offer durability, reliability, and specialized features for challenging environments. These characteristics set them apart from standard Ethernet switches, which are best suited for controlled indoor settings like offices. When selecting switches for industrial applications, consider the higher initial investment in industrial switches as a long-term benefit due to reduced maintenance, enhanced reliability, and extended equipment life.

For more information on industrial switches tailored for demanding applications, visit SOLTECH’s Singapore website to explore our range of high-performance networking solutions.

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