Moxa EDS-208A-M-ST-T 8-Port Multi-mode ST Turbo Ring Fiber Switch

The Moxa EDS-208A-M-ST-T is an industrial-grade, 8-port multi-mode fiber switch engineered for robust network connectivity in demanding environments. It boasts the Turbo Ring redundancy protocol, ensuring network uptime with recovery times under 20ms, crucial for applications where downtime is not an option. This switch supports a wide operating temperature range of -40 to 75°C, making it ideal for deployment in harsh industrial settings. Its dual power inputs enhance reliability, providing a critical safeguard against power failures. The unit features 8 x 10/100BaseT(X) Ethernet ports and 2 x 100BaseFX multi-mode SC ports, offering flexible connectivity options for diverse industrial networks.

Product Specifications

| Feature                   | Specification                                  |

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

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

| Fiber Ports               | 2 x 100BaseFX Multi-mode SC                    |

| Ring Protocols            | Turbo Ring (recovery < 20ms)                   |

| Power Input               | Dual 12/24/48 VDC                              |

| Operating Temperature     | -40 to 75°C                                    |

| Enclosure                 | IP30 metal housing                             |

| Mounting                  | DIN-rail                                       |

| Dimensions                | 43.5 x 140 x 105 mm                            |

| Warranty                  | 5 years                                        |

Core Features & Market Positioning

The Moxa EDS-208A-M-ST-T distinguishes itself through its superior Turbo Ring technology, providing a highly resilient and fault-tolerant network foundation essential for industrial automation. Unlike standard Ethernet switches, its industrial design, including a rugged metal enclosure and wide operating temperature range, ensures consistent performance in environments susceptible to vibration, dust, and extreme temperatures. The multi-mode fiber optic ports offer extended transmission distances compared to copper, mitigating electromagnetic interference and enhancing data integrity over longer runs. This positioning makes the EDS-208A-M-ST-T a cost-effective yet high-performance solution for building reliable industrial networks where uptime and data security are paramount.

Key Application Scenarios

This industrial Ethernet switch excels in critical infrastructure and manufacturing environments. Its robust construction and rapid ring recovery make it a prime choice for SCADA systems, programmable logic controller (PLC) networks, and machine-to-machine (M2M) communication in factories. Deployments in intelligent transportation systems (ITS), such as traffic control and surveillance, benefit from its extended temperature range and reliable fiber connectivity. Furthermore, the Moxa EDS-208A-M-ST-T is well-suited for energy sector applications, including oil and gas, power generation, and substations, where network stability and resilience are non-negotiable.

Practical System Integration Guidance

Integrating the Moxa EDS-208A-M-ST-T into an industrial network is straightforward. The DIN-rail mounting system simplifies installation onto standard control panel rails. For ring topology, connect the fiber ports between switches to form a redundant loop. Configuration, including IP addressing and Turbo Ring settings, can be accessed via the web console, Telnet, or serial console port. Ensure proper grounding for the metal enclosure to prevent static discharge and electrical noise. The use of industrial-grade fiber optic cables (e.g., multi-mode OM3 or OM4) with SC connectors is recommended for optimal performance and longevity.

Operation and Risk Mitigation

Operating the Moxa EDS-208A-M-ST-T requires adherence to industrial networking best practices. To mitigate risks, ensure the unit is installed within its specified temperature and humidity limits, and that adequate ventilation is provided. Power supply fluctuations should be managed using redundant power sources or industrial power conditioners. Regular firmware updates from Moxa are crucial for addressing potential security vulnerabilities and enhancing performance. In case of network disruptions, the Turbo Ring protocol automatically reroutes traffic, minimizing downtime. Common troubleshooting steps involve checking LED indicators for port status and power, verifying cable integrity, and reviewing the switch's event log for diagnostic information.

Scalability & Long-Term Value

The Moxa EDS-208A-M-ST-T offers significant long-term value through its inherent scalability and compatibility. Its modular design and support for standard industrial protocols allow for seamless integration into expanding automation systems. The fiber optic ports provide a future-proof pathway for higher bandwidth demands as industrial networks evolve. Compatibility with other Moxa industrial networking products ensures a cohesive and integrated solution. The switch’s robust build quality and Moxa's reputation for reliability contribute to a lower total cost of ownership by reducing maintenance and replacement cycles, supporting long-term digital transformation initiatives within industrial environments.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary advantage of the Moxa EDS-208A-M-ST-T?

Its primary advantage lies in its robust Turbo Ring technology, offering sub-20ms network recovery. This ensures exceptional uptime for critical industrial operations.

The wide operating temperature range of -40 to 75°C makes it suitable for the harshest environments. Its industrial-grade construction guarantees reliability and longevity.

Dual power inputs provide crucial redundancy against power supply failures. This feature significantly enhances operational continuity and system stability.

How does the Turbo Ring feature benefit an industrial network?

Turbo Ring creates a self-healing network, automatically rerouting data if a link fails. This prevents network outages and maintains continuous communication.

It achieves rapid fault recovery, typically under 20 milliseconds. This speed is vital for real-time control systems where even brief interruptions are unacceptable.

Unlike standard Spanning Tree protocols, Turbo Ring is optimized for industrial switches, offering predictable and consistent performance. It simplifies network design for redundancy.

What are the typical environments where the Moxa EDS-208A-M-ST-T is deployed?

This switch is ideal for manufacturing floors, including factories with high levels of automation and machine-to-machine communication. Its resilience to industrial interference is key.

It is commonly used in critical infrastructure sectors like power generation, oil and gas facilities, and intelligent transportation systems. These demand high reliability and extended operational life.

The ability to withstand extreme temperatures and electrical noise makes it suitable for outdoor enclosures or mobile applications within industrial settings.

Can I use standard Ethernet cables with the fiber ports on this switch?

No, the fiber ports require specialized multi-mode fiber optic cables with SC connectors. Standard copper Ethernet cables are not compatible with fiber ports.

Ensure you use the correct type of multi-mode fiber (e.g., OM1, OM2, OM3, OM4) as specified for the 100BaseFX standard to achieve optimal performance. Cable length limitations for multi-mode fiber should also be considered.

Using the appropriate fiber optic patch cords and connectors is essential for establishing a stable and reliable connection between the switch and other fiber network devices.

What is the maximum distance achievable with the multi-mode fiber ports?

Multi-mode fiber ports, like those on the EDS-208A-M-ST-T, typically support distances up to 2 kilometers (approximately 1.2 miles) at 100 Mbps. This is ample for most factory floor or campus-wide industrial networks.

The exact distance can depend on the grade of multi-mode fiber used (e.g., OM2, OM3, OM4) and the quality of the fiber optic cable and connectors. Always refer to the fiber cable specifications.

For longer distances exceeding 2 km, single-mode fiber optics would be necessary, but multi-mode is standard for its cost-effectiveness over moderate industrial ranges.

How do I configure the Turbo Ring on the Moxa EDS-208A-M-ST-T?

Configuration is typically done through the switch's web-based management interface or its command-line interface (CLI). You will need to enable Turbo Ring and define the master/slave relationships.

When setting up a ring, ensure all switches in the ring are connected via their fiber ports and that the ring topology is correctly established in the configuration. The software guides you through defining the ring members.

Proper planning of the ring topology, including identifying the ring master and ensuring all switches have unique IP addresses, is crucial for successful implementation and reliable operation.

What type of power supply is required for this switch?

The Moxa EDS-208A-M-ST-T supports dual power inputs, accepting voltages from 12 to 48 VDC. This flexibility allows it to integrate into various existing industrial power systems.

Using two separate power sources connected to the dual inputs provides power redundancy. If one power source fails, the switch will continue to operate on the other, enhancing reliability.

It is recommended to use industrial-grade power supplies designed for consistent voltage output and protection against surges and brownouts to ensure optimal switch performance.

Is this switch suitable for outdoor industrial applications?

Yes, the EDS-208A-M-ST-T is designed for harsh industrial environments, including those with wide temperature fluctuations. Its operating temperature range of -40 to 75°C is key for outdoor or unconditioned spaces.

While it has a metal enclosure (IP30), it is not inherently waterproof or dustproof for direct outdoor exposure. It should be installed in a suitable protective enclosure if exposed to elements like rain, snow, or heavy dust.

Proper installation within an industrial cabinet or enclosure that provides adequate environmental protection will ensure its long-term operational integrity in demanding outdoor or semi-outdoor industrial settings.

How does the Moxa EDS-208A-M-ST-T handle network security?

While primarily focused on industrial connectivity and redundancy, the switch supports basic security features such as password protection for management access and user authentication protocols.

For enhanced security, it's often deployed behind firewalls and integrated into a broader network security strategy. Network segmentation and access control lists (ACLs) can be configured on more advanced managed switches within the same network.

Regular firmware updates are essential to patch any known vulnerabilities. Secure management practices, like changing default passwords and disabling unused services, further bolster its security posture.

What is the warranty period for the Moxa EDS-208A-M-ST-T?

The Moxa EDS-208A-M-ST-T comes with an extended 5-year warranty. This reflects Moxa's confidence in the product's durability and long-term reliability.

This comprehensive warranty period provides peace of mind for industrial users, covering potential manufacturing defects and ensuring support for a significant portion of the product's lifecycle.

It's advisable to register the product with Moxa upon purchase to facilitate any potential warranty claims and to stay informed about product support and updates.