Moxa EDS-208A 8-Port Enhanced Wide-Temperature Industrial Switch

The Moxa EDS-208A is an 8-port enhanced wide-temperature industrial Ethernet switch designed for robust performance in demanding environments. It offers essential networking capabilities with key advantages like a wide operating temperature range, enhanced reliability, and plug-and-play functionality. Crucial technical parameters include 8 x 10/100BaseT(X) Ethernet ports, a 12/24/48 VDC (9.6 to 60 VDC) power input, and an operating temperature range of -40 to 75°C.

Product Specifications

| Feature                   | Specification                                      |

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

| Ethernet Ports            | 8 x 10/100BaseT(X)                                 |

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

| Operating Temperature     | -40 to 75°C                                        |

| Dimensions                | 30 x 135 x 95 mm                                   |

| Mounting                  | DIN-Rail, Wall-mount, Panel-mount                  |

| Protocols                 | IEEE 802.3 for 10BaseT, IEEE 802.3u for 100BaseT(X) |

| MAC Table Size            | 1K                                                 |

| Isolation Voltage         | N/A (for standard model)                           |

| Protection Class          | IP30                                               |

| Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF) | 1,000,000+ hours                                   |

| Certifications            | UL, CE, FCC                                        |

Core Features & Market Positioning

The Moxa EDS-208A distinguishes itself through its exceptional wide-temperature operation, ensuring reliable network connectivity in extreme industrial conditions where standard commercial switches would fail. Its robust design, featuring an IP30-rated metal housing, provides superior durability and electromagnetic interference (EMI) resistance, crucial for factory floors and outdoor enclosures. The switch's plug-and-play nature simplifies deployment, reducing installation time and complexity, which is a significant advantage in cost-sensitive industrial automation projects. Compared to similar unmanaged switches, the EDS-208A’s extended temperature range and industrial-grade components position it as a premium, yet cost-effective, solution for mission-critical applications demanding high availability.

Key Application Scenarios

This industrial switch excels in environments requiring a dependable network backbone for multiple devices. It is ideally suited for factory automation, connecting PLCs, sensors, and vision systems, ensuring seamless data flow on the production line. In intelligent transportation systems (ITS), the EDS-208A can manage traffic cameras, sensors, and variable message signs, even under fluctuating weather conditions due to its wide-temperature capability. Furthermore, it is a robust choice for energy sector applications, such as connecting SCADA systems, remote monitoring equipment, and substations, where network uptime is paramount. Its compact size and multiple mounting options also facilitate integration into confined spaces within substations or control cabinets.

Practical System Integration Guidance

Integrating the Moxa EDS-208A into an industrial network is straightforward due to its unmanaged, plug-and-play design. For power, connect a compatible DC power supply (12/24/48 VDC) to the terminal block, observing polarity. Network connections are made using standard industrial Ethernet cables (e.g., Cat5e or higher) to the RJ45 ports. For DIN-rail mounting, slide the switch onto the rail until it clicks securely; wall or panel mounting requires the use of optional mounting kits. Since it's an unmanaged switch, no complex configuration is necessary—simply connect devices, and the switch will automatically establish network links. Redundant power inputs enhance reliability, allowing a backup power source to maintain operation if the primary fails.

Operation and Risk Mitigation

Operating the Moxa EDS-208A requires ensuring proper power supply voltage within the specified range to prevent damage. Its wide-temperature design mitigates the risk of hardware failure due to extreme ambient temperatures, a common issue with commercial-grade equipment. While the EDS-208A is an unmanaged switch and thus lacks advanced diagnostic features, basic troubleshooting involves checking LED indicators for link status and power. If a port is not communicating, verify cable integrity and the status of the connected device. Ensure the unit is properly grounded to prevent static discharge and EMI interference, which could disrupt network performance.

Scalability & Long-Term Value

The Moxa EDS-208A provides a foundational element for scalable industrial networks. While it is an unmanaged switch, its reliability and industrial-grade construction contribute to the long-term stability of the network infrastructure. For larger deployments or networks requiring managed features like VLANs or QoS, the EDS-208A can serve as a cost-effective edge switch, feeding data to a higher-level managed switch or router. Its compatibility with standard Ethernet protocols ensures it integrates seamlessly with a wide range of industrial devices and control systems. As industries move towards IIoT and digital transformation, the robust connectivity offered by switches like the EDS-208A remains critical for collecting and transmitting essential operational data.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum cable length supported by the Moxa EDS-208A?

The Moxa EDS-208A supports standard Ethernet cable lengths. For 100 Mbps connections, this typically means up to 100 meters using Cat5e or better shielded twisted-pair cables. Longer distances would require media converters or fiber optic links.

Proper cable termination and shielding are vital to maintain signal integrity over these distances, especially in electrically noisy industrial environments. Always use industrial-grade Ethernet cables designed for these conditions to ensure reliability and prevent data loss.

Ensuring the connected devices also adhere to these cable length specifications is important for overall network performance. Exceeding the limit can lead to intermittent connectivity or complete communication failure.

How does the wide-temperature feature benefit industrial applications?

The wide-temperature capability allows the EDS-208A to operate reliably in extreme heat or cold. This is crucial for outdoor installations or unconditioned factory spaces where temperatures fluctuate significantly.

Without this feature, standard switches would likely fail, leading to costly downtime and network outages in critical industrial processes. The switch ensures continuous operation regardless of ambient conditions.

This robustness enhances the overall uptime and reduces maintenance requirements, making it an ideal choice for sectors like oil and gas, mining, and utilities. It simplifies deployment by removing the need for climate-controlled enclosures in many cases.

Can the Moxa EDS-208A be used in hazardous locations?

The standard Moxa EDS-208A is not designed for hazardous locations classified under ATEX or similar certifications. It is typically IP30 rated, offering protection against solid objects but not against flammable gases or dust.

For environments with explosion risks, specific intrinsically safe or explosion-proof industrial switches from Moxa or other manufacturers are required. These specialized devices undergo rigorous testing to meet safety standards for hazardous areas.

Always consult the product datasheet and relevant safety regulations before deploying any network equipment in potentially hazardous industrial zones to ensure compliance and prevent safety incidents.