Phoenix Contact Ethernet Switches

More Information about Phoenix Contact Ethernet Switches

For even greater flexibility, Phoenix Contact also offers specialized switches, including Power over Ethernet (PoE) versions. These supply power and data to various sorts of devices—like cameras or network access points—that need to be placed in locations inaccessible to standard AC power outlets. Because PoE can reduce the number of wires needed to make a network work, it's often favored in "smart" installations that employ various sensors and other networked devices.

Ethernet switches made by Phoenix Contact are created for sturdy industrial reliability. They come in robust enclosures and can withstand a wide range of temperatures to satisfy the most stringent conditions. They also offer models with fiber optic connections to handle the long-haul, high-speed demands of a truly big network. Their switches are focused on scalability and future-proofing. They support a variety of IT standards and automation protocols and do so with seamless integration into existing systems and setups guaranteed.

FAQs

What are the main differences between an unmanaged switch and a managed switch?

An unmanaged switch is essentially plug-and-play with minimal configuration and usually fewer advanced functions. A managed switch provides features like advanced configuration, diagnostics, monitoring, security functions, and redundancy mechanisms.

Are Phoenix Contact switches built for harsh environments?

Yes. They are designed for industrial applications, with models that support wide temperature ranges, robust mounting and design considerations for reliability in difficult settings.

What kind of ports and speeds are available on Phoenix Contact Ethernet switches?

They offer models supporting 10/100 Mbps, 10/100/1000 Mbps, PoE (power over Ethernet) versions, RJ45 copper ports, fibre ports (SFP), and high-port density models to connect many network devices.

Can Phoenix Contact unmanaged switches support protocols like PROFINET or EtherNet/IP?

Yes. Some unmanaged models support automation protocols such as PROFINET and EtherNet/IP.

When should I choose a managed Phoenix Contact switch rather than an unmanaged one?

You should choose a managed switch when you have a complex network with many network devices, require traffic prioritization (QoS), need segmentation (such as VLANs) or need security and redundancy features; for simpler networks an unmanaged switch will do.

4 things to consider when selecting Ethernet switches

Should the switch be managed or unmanaged? 

Unmanaged switches receive data from connected devices and route it to the desired destination. Managed switches perform the same functions as unmanaged switches, with the added benefit of being able to configure, manage and monitor the Local Area Network (LAN).

What types of devices will be connected to the switch and do they require power? 

If the devices require power, a Power Over Ethernet (POE) switch will be needed. This type of switch provides power to the devices that are connected to it, as long as those devices are designed for the same type of power. This is very common in IP cameras and surveillance equipment.

How many devices will connect to the switch? 

Ensure that the switch has enough available ports to accommodate all devices, with spare ports available for future expansion. 

How much data will the switch transfer? 

If the switch is going to handle large amounts of data, it is going to need to operate at high enough speeds to accommodate it. The most common options are Fast and Gigabit. Fast allows up to 100 megabytes per second to be transferred, while Gigabit allows up to one Gigabit per second.