Switches provide a secure on-machine Ethernet connection

Accepting standard threaded M12 connectors, the Brad Direct-Link harsh-duty unmanaged Ethernet switches are available in five and eight port versions with patented Ultra-Lock technology to ensure fast and secure network connections. NEMA 6 and IP67-ratings enable the switches to withstand dusty environments, low pressure washes and submersion.

Easily mounted for optimal flexibility in space-constrained applications, the Direct-Link switches feature LED indicators for quick diagnostics and auto-learning features for industrial network installers. The switches operate over a temperature range from -40 to +75°C and a voltage range of 9-36VDC. This makes the devices suitable for mobile applications with severe environmental conditions including oil drilling rigs, mining equipment, agricultural machinery and process skids.

George Kairys, Product Manager, Molex, comments: “Production downtime causes significant revenue loss, which is a major concern for plant operators. Unexpected downtimes can occur from poor network connections, high vibration environments and extreme temperature variations. Rugged Brad solutions solve this problem for our customers by helping to streamline plant floor Ethernet network connections in the most robust hardware design. Brad industrial Ethernet solutions are designed to seamlessly exchange and extract real-time data from the manufacturing floor. Cost-effective unmanaged Direct-Link switches give our industrial customers greater design freedom, simple installation, and the reliable network performance they deserve."

Available in 30 and 60mm width versions with standard hole patterns, the low-profile Brad Direct-Link harsh-duty unmanaged Ethernet switches are available now.