Advantech introduces two PoE switches

　　June 24, 2009 – The Industrial Automation Group of Advantech introduces two PoE switches, the 5-port 24 VDC powered EKI-2525PA and 6-port wide temperature EKI-2526PI, which combine a compact and rugged unmanaged Ethernet switch with Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) technology to connect and power Ethernet devices over a single Ethernet cable.

　　PoE, which is relatively new to industrial and plant-floor applications, is a technology to transmit power plus data to remote Ethernet devices over standard Cat5e/Cat6 cables. More formally known as IEEE 802.3af internationally, this standard specifies a supply of 48VDC at up to 15.4W per port.

　　Because of the telecommunications heritage of PoE, and the requirements that PoE compliant switches supply 48VDC power, products from existing switch vendors require a 48 VDC power source. With the EKI-2525PA, there is no need for a separate 48 VDC power source, since it includes a DC-to-DC converter to boost the 24 VDC input to the 48 VDC required for powering attached PoE devices.

　　For compatibility with non-PoE compliant devices, each port can automatically detect when PoE compliant devices are attached, before supplying power. Each Ethernet port is also equipped with front-facing LED indicators that provide link, transmission speed, activity and PoE output status to aid in diagnosing issues with cables and attached devices.

　　Packaged in a compact and thin DIN-rail mount metal chassis, both the EKI-2525PA and EKI-2526PI are ideal where panel space is limited. They are also ruggedized for demanding industrial applications, with redundant power inputs, 4,000 VDC Ethernet ESD protection, power line surge (EFT) protection of 3,000 VDC, and feature an operating temperature range of -10 to 60° C or -40 to 75° C to ensure system uptime. Plus, these switches are CUL (UL/CSA), CE, FCC, and RoHS/WEE certified.

　　“Listening to our customers, we knew there was a better way to meet their needs.” said Paul Wacker, Advantech’s Product Manager for Industrial Communication products. “With the new 24 VDC powered EKI-2525PA, our customers can save the expense and panel space required for a separate 48 VDC power supply.”

　　Advantech Corporation, Industrial Automation Group - Founded in 1983, the Industrial Automation Group of Advantech Corporation is a pioneer in eAutomation technology; combining connectivity, flexibility and ruggedness with today's most reliable PC-based automation technologies. Product offerings include: Open HMI platforms, Industrial Ethernet, Automation Controllers, Automation Software, Embedded Automation Computers, Distributed I/O Modules, Plug-in I/O, and Industrial Communication solutions for a wide array of industries. With more than 20 years experience in providing a full range of products to different vertical markets, the Industrial Automation Group is proving to be a globally leading Automation Product and Services provider. US operations for the Industrial Automation Group are based in Cincinnati, OH.