Ethernet Switch

What is an Ethernet Switch?

An Ethernet Switch is a connection device optimized for Ethernet technology. The device transmits signals from a central control unit to a device such as a sensor or an actuator. A switch simplifies the set-up and additionally increases the data rate. Ethernet switches are active devices. In detail this means they read the arriving data packages ("frames") and only forward them to the devices that have to be addressed. Safety and reliability of the communication within the set up are increased. The transmission is basically tap-proof. Even for application in a small home set-up, Ethernet switches with just four ports are available. Mucht bigger switches are used for industrial application.

How does an Ethernet Switch work?

As mentioned before, an Ethernet Switch is an active device. Current pulses are not simply transmitted but read, validated and the addressee is checked. To fulfil this task, an Ethernet switch has its own adaptive control unit. Before the first start of the switch up, this control unit has to be trained. The data stream can be transmitted with precision after the switch has become familiar with all connected devices and linked them to the corresponding addresses. Therefore, the speed of a central control unit is much higher and expansion is easier than when using direct wiring. Thanks to Ethernet switches the processing power of a central control unit is used perfectly.

Gigabit Switches

ProfiNet Switches