Moxa EDS-205A 5-Port Compact Unmanaged Industrial Ethernet Switch

The Moxa EDS-205A 5-Port Compact Unmanaged Industrial Ethernet Switch is a robust and reliable networking solution designed for demanding industrial environments. This unmanaged switch boasts essential advantages such as rugged construction, wide operating temperature range, and plug-and-play simplicity. Key features include its compact form factor for space-constrained applications, DIN-rail mounting for easy integration, and essential network status indicators. Technical parameters such as its 10/100BaseTX Ethernet speed, DC power input options, and IP30 protection class underscore its suitability for critical industrial automation tasks.

Product Specifications

| Feature               | Specification                                         |

| :-------------------- | :---------------------------------------------------- |

| Ethernet Ports        | 5 x 10/100BaseTX (RJ45)                               |

| Port Auto-Negotiation | Yes                                                   |

| Auto MDI/MDI-X        | Yes                                                   |

| MAC Address Table     | 1K entries                                            |

| Switching Capacity    | 1 Gbps                                                |

| Packet Forwarding Rate | 0.744 Mpps                                            |

| Input Voltage         | 12/24/48 VDC (9.6 to 60 VDC)                          |

| Power Consumption     | Max. 2.2 W                                            |

| Operating Temperature | -10 to 60 °C (14 to 140 °F)                           |

| Storage Temperature   | -40 to 70 °C (-40 to 158 °F)                          |

| Operating Humidity    | 5 to 95% RH (non-condensing)                          |

| Enclosure             | IP30                                                  |

| Mounting              | DIN-rail, Wall-mount (optional)                       |

| Dimensions            | 30 x 101 x 86 mm (1.18 x 3.98 x 3.39 in)                |

| Weight                | 300 g (0.66 lb)                                       |

| MTBF                  | Typically > 500,000 hours                             |

Core Features & Market Positioning

The Moxa EDS-205A distinguishes itself in the crowded industrial Ethernet switch market through its inherent reliability and straightforward operation. As an unmanaged switch, it eliminates the complexities of configuration, making it an ideal choice for applications where ease of deployment and maintenance are paramount. Its rugged design, capable of withstanding harsh environmental conditions including wide temperature fluctuations and vibration, positions it as a dependable component in critical infrastructure and factory automation systems. Unlike more complex managed switches, the EDS-205A focuses on delivering essential connectivity with robust performance, ensuring consistent data flow for operational technology (OT) networks. This focus on simplicity and resilience makes it a cost-effective and highly reliable solution for upgrading or establishing basic industrial network segments.

Key Application Scenarios

The compact and robust nature of the Moxa EDS-205A 5-Port Industrial Ethernet Switch makes it exceptionally well-suited for a variety of demanding industrial applications. It excels in connecting local devices in machine control cabinets, where space is often limited and environmental conditions can be challenging. Common use cases include deploying it in PLC networks, HMI systems, and sensor data acquisition points within manufacturing facilities, providing a stable backbone for data exchange. Furthermore, its wide DC voltage input range allows for seamless integration into existing power infrastructure across different global regions, making it a versatile choice for applications in the oil and gas sector, transportation systems, and building automation where reliable network connectivity is non-negotiable. Its plug-and-play functionality simplifies deployment in remote or distributed industrial settings.

Practical System Integration Guidance

Integrating the Moxa EDS-205A into an industrial network is designed for maximum simplicity, eliminating the need for specialized IT knowledge. Installation typically involves securely mounting the switch onto a standard DIN-rail within an enclosure or control panel. Power connection is straightforward, requiring a DC power source within the specified voltage range (9.6 to 60 VDC) connected to the designated power terminals. Network connections are made using standard industrial Ethernet cables (e.g., Cat5e or Cat6) plugged into the RJ45 ports. The switch automatically negotiates speed and duplex settings with connected devices, requiring no manual configuration. For robust system integration, ensure proper grounding and consider electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding for cabling in highly noisy environments. Its LED indicators provide immediate visual feedback on power status and port activity, aiding in initial setup and ongoing monitoring.

Operation and Risk Mitigation

Operating the Moxa EDS-205A industrial Ethernet switch is characterized by its "set it and forget it" philosophy, as it requires no configuration. Its primary function is to enable seamless, high-speed data communication between connected devices. Critical for risk mitigation in industrial settings is its inherent reliability and robust design. The switch's wide operating temperature range (-10 to 60 °C) and IP30 protection ensure it functions correctly even in environments with significant temperature fluctuations or dust ingress. While unmanaged, basic troubleshooting involves verifying power supply integrity and checking Ethernet cable connections. Abnormal LED behavior, such as a consistently unlit port LED, typically indicates a faulty cable or a non-functional device on that port. Ensuring stable power input and protecting the unit from direct water ingress are the most critical steps to prevent operational failures and extend its service life.

Scalability & Long-Term Value

The Moxa EDS-205A 5-Port Compact Unmanaged Industrial Ethernet Switch offers a strategic foundation for industrial network growth, even within its unmanaged framework. Its value is amplified by its compatibility with a vast array of industrial devices and protocols, ensuring seamless integration with existing automation equipment and future expansions. While it doesn't offer advanced managed features like VLANs or QoS, its role as a reliable connectivity provider makes it an excellent building block for larger networks. Systems can be scaled by adding more EDS-205A units or integrating them with Moxa's managed switches for more sophisticated network control and monitoring. This approach allows organizations to start with a cost-effective, plug-and-play solution and evolve their network infrastructure incrementally, aligning with the principles of Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and Industry 4.0 adoption by providing a stable and dependable data conduit.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is the primary function of the Moxa EDS-205A switch?

The Moxa EDS-205A is an industrial Ethernet switch. It connects multiple Ethernet devices together, enabling them to communicate with each other.

This unmanaged switch offers plug-and-play simplicity. It automatically handles network traffic without user configuration.

Its core purpose is to provide reliable, high-speed data transfer in industrial settings.

Q2: Can the Moxa EDS-205A be used in extreme temperature environments?

Yes, the EDS-205A is designed for industrial environments. It operates reliably between -10 and 60 degrees Celsius.

This wide operating temperature range makes it suitable for many factory floors and outdoor enclosures. Proper ventilation is always recommended.

This ensures consistent network performance even when ambient temperatures fluctuate significantly.

Q3: Does the Moxa EDS-205A require any software configuration?

No, the Moxa EDS-205A is an unmanaged switch. It requires no software or manual configuration.

Simply connect power and Ethernet cables, and it begins operating immediately. This simplifies deployment and maintenance.

Its plug-and-play nature makes it ideal for straightforward network setups.

Q4: What type of power input does the Moxa EDS-205A use?

The EDS-205A accepts a wide DC power input range. It supports voltages from 9.6 to 60 VDC.

This flexibility allows it to be powered by various DC sources commonly found in industrial control panels. It often uses terminal blocks for connection.

Check the specific power supply to ensure it falls within the supported range for optimal operation.

Q5: How do I mount the Moxa EDS-205A switch?

The Moxa EDS-205A is designed for easy industrial mounting. It features integrated DIN-rail mounting.

It can also be wall-mounted using an optional mounting bracket. Ensure a secure and stable installation.

Proper mounting is crucial for maintaining connection integrity and preventing damage.

Q6: What are the physical dimensions of the Moxa EDS-205A?

The Moxa EDS-205A is a compact device. Its dimensions are 30 x 101 x 86 mm.

This compact size is advantageous for installations in space-constrained control cabinets or panels. It minimizes the footprint.

Its small form factor does not compromise its industrial-grade performance and durability.

Q7: What is the network speed supported by the Moxa EDS-205A?

The Moxa EDS-205A supports Fast Ethernet speeds. It offers 10/100 Mbps per port.

All five ports automatically negotiate speed and duplex settings for optimal performance. It is ideal for most factory automation needs.

This speed is sufficient for many industrial data acquisition and control tasks.

Q8: Can the Moxa EDS-205A withstand dust and moisture?

The Moxa EDS-205A has an IP30 protection rating. This means it is protected against solid objects larger than 2.5mm.

While it offers some protection, it is not waterproof. It should be installed in a protected enclosure to prevent dust and moisture ingress.

For environments with higher ingress protection needs, consider more robust Moxa models.

Q9: What does "unmanaged" mean for the Moxa EDS-205A?

"Unmanaged" signifies that the switch requires no configuration. It operates straight out of the box.

You cannot access or modify network settings like VLANs or QoS on this device. It is a simple plug-and-play solution.

This simplicity reduces complexity and potential for misconfiguration in industrial networks.

Q10: What is the Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF) for this switch?

The Moxa EDS-205A boasts a high Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF). It is typically rated for over 500,000 hours.

This metric indicates a high level of reliability and durability for long-term operation. It is designed for demanding industrial uptime requirements.

This long MTBF translates to reduced maintenance costs and increased operational availability.