Moxa EDS-205A-S-SC 5-Port SC Single-mode Fiber Industrial Switch

The Moxa EDS-205A-S-SC stands as a robust 5-port, SC single-mode fiber industrial Ethernet switch engineered for demanding environments. Its compact design, DIN-rail mounting capability, and fanless operation make it ideal for a wide array of industrial applications. This switch boasts essential features like automatic MDI/MDIX, extensive temperature range support (-40 to 75°C), and dual redundant power inputs, ensuring reliable network connectivity and minimal downtime in critical infrastructure, factory automation, and transportation systems. The single-mode SC fiber port provides long-distance communication capabilities, extending network reach significantly beyond the limitations of copper cabling.

Product Specifications

| Feature               | Specification                                         |

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

| Ethernet Ports        | 5 x 10/100BaseT(X) RJ45                                 |

| Fiber Ports           | 1 x 100BaseFX SC Single-mode                          |

| Fiber Wavelength      | 1310 nm                                               |

| Fiber Distance        | Up to 30 km                                           |

| Switching Capacity    | 1 Gbps                                                |

| Packet Forwarding Rate | 740,904 pps                                           |

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

| Power Consumption     | Max. 2.2 W @ 24 VDC                                   |

| Operating Temperature | -40 to 75°C                                           |

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

| Dimensions            | 31.5 x 106 x 80 mm (1.24 x 4.17 x 3.15 in)              |

| IP Rating             | IP30                                                  |

| MTBF                  | 470,000+ hours                                        |

Core Features & Market Positioning

The Moxa EDS-205A-S-SC distinguishes itself through its unwavering reliability in harsh industrial settings, a hallmark of Moxa's product line. The inclusion of a single-mode SC fiber port is a significant differentiator, enabling cost-effective long-range network extensions in environments where traditional copper Ethernet is impractical. Its wide operating temperature range ensures consistent performance from frigid outdoor installations to hot factory floors. Furthermore, the dual redundant power inputs offer critical failover protection, a feature highly valued in mission-critical applications where network availability is paramount. This combination of ruggedness, extended reach, and power redundancy positions the EDS-205A-S-SC as a superior choice for industrial network backbones requiring dependable, long-distance connectivity.

Key Application Scenarios

The EDS-205A-S-SC is ideally suited for extending industrial networks over significant distances, making it a prime candidate for Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems where remote sensors and controllers need to be integrated. Its robust design and temperature tolerance also make it a strong performer in outdoor applications, such as pipeline monitoring, traffic management systems, and intelligent transportation infrastructure. In manufacturing environments, it facilitates reliable communication between shop floor equipment and control rooms, even across large plant facilities, supporting factory automation and data collection initiatives. The single-mode fiber capability is particularly beneficial for connecting distributed substations in the power utility sector, ensuring robust data transfer over kilometers.

Practical System Integration Guidance

Integrating the Moxa EDS-205A-S-SC into an industrial network is straightforward. For initial setup, connect the power supply to one of the dual power input terminals, ensuring polarity is correct. The network connection is established by plugging standard Ethernet cables into the RJ45 ports for short distances or by connecting the single-mode SC fiber optic cable to the designated port for long-haul communication. Ensure the fiber optic transceivers at both ends of the link are compatible and configured for 100 Mbps operation. For DIN-rail mounting, slide the switch onto the rail until it clicks securely. For wall-mounting, use the optional wall-mount bracket, ensuring it is firmly attached to a suitable surface. The switch operates plug-and-play for basic connectivity; no complex configuration is required for essential network traffic forwarding.

Operation and Risk Mitigation

Operating the Moxa EDS-205A-S-SC involves ensuring it receives a stable power supply within its specified voltage range (9.6 to 60 VDC). The dual power inputs should ideally be connected to separate power sources for redundancy; if one source fails, the other will maintain operation. Regularly inspect fiber optic connections for dirt or damage, as contaminants can degrade signal quality and lead to intermittent connectivity. The switch's fanless design reduces the risk of fan failure, a common point of failure in many industrial electronics. In the unlikely event of a fault, check the status LEDs on the front panel; solid green lights typically indicate normal operation, while blinking or red lights may signal a port issue or power problem. Refer to the Moxa documentation for specific LED interpretations and troubleshooting steps.

Scalability & Long-Term Value

The Moxa EDS-205A-S-SC offers significant long-term value through its inherent reliability and the inherent scalability provided by industrial Ethernet. While this specific model is unmanaged, it integrates seamlessly into larger managed industrial networks. The inclusion of a fiber port allows for future network expansion over greater distances without requiring media converters, laying the groundwork for growth. Its compatibility with standard industrial protocols and hardware ensures it can be part of evolving IIoT (Industrial Internet of Things) architectures, supporting the increasing demand for data acquisition and communication in smart factories and connected infrastructure. The robust build quality and extensive MTBF rating suggest a long operational lifespan, minimizing the total cost of ownership.

FAQs

What is the maximum distance the Moxa EDS-205A-S-SC can support with its fiber port?

The single-mode SC fiber port on the Moxa EDS-205A-S-SC supports communication up to 30 kilometers. This extended range is crucial for connecting geographically dispersed industrial assets.

This long-distance capability makes it ideal for applications like pipeline monitoring or linking remote substations in the energy sector. The use of single-mode fiber ensures a clean, high-bandwidth signal over these considerable distances, minimizing signal degradation.

The 30 km reach is achieved using standard 1310 nm wavelength transmission, common in industrial single-mode fiber deployments. Proper fiber optic cable selection and termination are key to achieving this maximum distance reliably.

Can the Moxa EDS-205A-S-SC operate in extreme temperature environments?

Yes, the Moxa EDS-205A-S-SC is designed to operate reliably in extreme temperatures ranging from -40°C to 75°C. This wide operating temperature range is critical for industrial deployments.

This capability ensures consistent performance whether installed in frigid outdoor conditions or hot factory environments without the need for climate control. The robust hardware design withstands thermal stress.

Devices operating outside of their specified temperature ranges can experience component failure, reduced lifespan, or erratic behavior. The EDS-205A-S-SC mitigates these risks with its hardened specifications.

What are the power requirements and redundancy features of the Moxa EDS-205A-S-SC?

The Moxa EDS-205A-S-SC accepts a wide DC power input voltage range, from 9.6 VDC up to 60 VDC, making it flexible for various power sources. It features dual power inputs for redundancy.

Connecting two separate power supplies to the dual input terminals provides a critical failover mechanism. If one power source fails, the switch will automatically continue operating from the second source, ensuring network uptime.

This redundant power design is essential for industrial applications where uninterrupted network connectivity is paramount, preventing costly downtime and operational disruptions. The maximum power consumption is low, around 2.2W at 24VDC.

How does the SC connector type benefit industrial fiber optic installations?

The SC connector is a popular, robust, and easy-to-use connector for industrial fiber optic applications. Its push-pull coupling mechanism ensures secure connections and simplifies installation.

SC connectors are known for their reliability and low insertion loss, which is important for maintaining signal integrity over long distances, especially with single-mode fiber. They are also color-coded for easy identification.

Compared to older connector types, SC connectors are more resistant to vibration and environmental contaminants, contributing to the overall stability and longevity of the industrial network connection.

What is the significance of a fanless design for this industrial switch?

A fanless design eliminates a common point of mechanical failure in electronic equipment. This significantly enhances the reliability and lifespan of the Moxa EDS-205A-S-SC.

Without moving parts like fans, the switch is less susceptible to dust, moisture, and vibration ingress, making it more suitable for harsh industrial environments where airflow might be restricted or contaminants prevalent.

Fanless operation also contributes to silent operation and reduced maintenance requirements, as there are no fans to clean, replace, or fail over time, leading to lower total cost of ownership.

What is the primary advantage of using single-mode fiber with the EDS-205A-S-SC?

The primary advantage of using single-mode fiber with the EDS-205A-S-SC is its capability for significantly extended transmission distances compared to multimode fiber or copper. It allows data to travel many kilometers without signal degradation.

This extended reach is vital for connecting geographically separated industrial sites, remote monitoring stations, or large plant facilities where the distances exceed the limits of other cabling types. It reduces the need for intermediate repeaters.

Single-mode fiber also offers higher bandwidth potential and is less susceptible to modal dispersion, ensuring a cleaner signal over long distances, which is crucial for high-speed data transmission in demanding industrial networks.

How does the Moxa EDS-205A-S-SC support network reliability?

Network reliability is supported through several features: dual redundant power inputs for failover, a wide operating temperature range for consistent performance, and a rugged, fanless design that minimizes mechanical failures.

The inclusion of industrial-grade components and extensive MTBF ratings (over 470,000 hours) further underscore its design for high availability in demanding operational contexts.

Its plug-and-play nature for basic connectivity also reduces the risk of misconfiguration, a common source of network instability in industrial settings.

What are the key industrial sectors that benefit from the EDS-205A-S-SC?

Key industrial sectors include energy (power generation and distribution), transportation (railways, intelligent traffic systems), manufacturing (factory automation), and critical infrastructure management (water treatment, oil and gas).

These sectors often require long-distance communication, rugged hardware, and high network reliability to connect distributed assets and ensure continuous operation in challenging environments.

The switch's ability to handle extreme temperatures and provide robust connectivity over single-mode fiber makes it perfectly suited for the unique demands of these heavy industries.

Is the Moxa EDS-205A-S-SC managed or unmanaged?

The Moxa EDS-205A-S-SC is an unmanaged industrial Ethernet switch. This means it is designed for simple plug-and-play operation without the need for complex network configuration or management software.

Unmanaged switches are ideal for straightforward network expansions or for segmenting networks where advanced traffic control features are not required. They offer basic connectivity and data forwarding.

This simplicity reduces setup time and eliminates the possibility of misconfiguration, making it an excellent choice for basic industrial network connectivity and reliable data transmission.

What is the physical form factor and mounting options for this industrial switch?

The Moxa EDS-205A-S-SC features a compact, rugged industrial housing with dimensions of 31.5 x 106 x 80 mm. It is designed for easy installation in industrial control cabinets and enclosures.

The primary mounting method is DIN-rail mounting, a standard in industrial automation for secure and efficient installation. It can also be wall-mounted using an optional mounting bracket for alternative deployment scenarios.

Its IP30 rating indicates protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 mm, suitable for indoor or protected environments, and its robust construction ensures it can withstand typical industrial physical stresses.