The Moxa EDS-408A DIN Rail Mount Industrial Network Switch is an eight-port, entry-level managed Ethernet switch engineered for robust performance in demanding industrial environments. It offers a range of essential management functions, including Turbo Ring and Turbo Chain for rapid network redundancy with recovery times under 20 ms. The switch supports IGMP snooping, IEEE 802.1Q VLAN, and port-based VLAN for efficient network segmentation and traffic management. For simplified network administration, it provides multiple management interfaces such as a web browser, CLI, Telnet/serial console, and a Windows utility. This industrial network switch is designed for DIN-rail or wall mounting and operates within a temperature range of -10°C to 60°C for standard models, with wide-temperature models extending this to -40°C to 75°C. Key technical parameters include 8 x 10/100BaseT(X) Ethernet ports, dual redundant power inputs (12/24/48 VDC), and an IP30 rating. The EDS-408A is also available in specific models with PROFINET or EtherNet/IP enabled by default, facilitating integration into industrial automation systems.
Product Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
| :----------------------- | :-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| Switch Type | Managed |
| No. of Ports | 8 x 10/100BaseT(X) RJ45 |
| Form Factor | DIN-Rail, Wall-Mount |
| Max. Speed | 100 Mbps |
| PoE | No |
| Power Input | 12/24/48 VDC, Redundant Dual Inputs |
| Operating Temperature| Standard Models: -10 to 60°C (14 to 140°F); Wide Temp. Models: -40 to 75°C (-40 to 167°F) |
| Housing | Metal |
| IP Rating | IP30 |
| Dimensions | 53.6 x 135 x 105 mm (2.11 x 5.31 x 4.13 in) |
| Weight | Approx. 650 g (1.44 lb) for standard models |
| Certifications | DNV, EN 50121-4, NEMA TS2, ATEX, Class 1 Division 2 |
| Industrial Protocols | Modbus TCP, EtherNet/IP, PROFINET (specific models) |
| Redundancy Protocols | Turbo Ring v1/v2, Turbo Chain, RSTP, STP |
| VLAN Support | IEEE 802.1Q VLAN, Port-based VLAN, GVRP |
| Management Features | Web browser, CLI, Telnet/serial console, Windows utility, ABC-01, MXstudio |
Core Features & Market Positioning
The Moxa EDS-408A distinguishes itself in the industrial Ethernet switch market through its robust feature set and focus on reliability and ease of management. Its primary advantage lies in its industrial-grade design, ensuring stable operation in harsh environments often characterized by temperature extremes, vibration, and electrical noise. The inclusion of advanced redundancy protocols like Turbo Ring and Turbo Chain provides rapid network failover, crucial for applications where downtime is unacceptable. This positions the EDS-408A as a dependable choice for mission-critical industrial networks, differentiating it from less resilient, standard office-grade switches. Furthermore, its compatibility with industrial protocols such as EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP, and PROFINET makes it a versatile component for diverse automation and control systems. The availability of both standard and wide-temperature models further enhances its market appeal, allowing deployment across a broader spectrum of operational conditions.
Key Application Scenarios
The Moxa EDS-408A finds its optimal application in environments demanding high network availability and robust connectivity. Its DIN-rail mounting capability and industrial certifications, including Class 1, Division 2, make it suitable for deployment in hazardous locations such as oil and gas facilities, chemical plants, and mining operations. In manufacturing and process automation, the EDS-408A facilitates reliable communication between PLCs, HMIs, sensors, and control systems, ensuring seamless data flow on the factory floor. It is also integral to the backbone of transportation systems, including intelligent traffic management and railway signaling, where network stability is paramount. Energy sectors, such as power generation and distribution, benefit from its resilience and support for protocols like IEC 61850 GOOSE messaging. Furthermore, its multi-port Ethernet configuration is ideal for building comprehensive surveillance and monitoring networks in challenging outdoor or industrial settings.
Practical System Integration Guidance
Integrating the Moxa EDS-408A into an industrial network is streamlined by its user-friendly management interfaces and versatile mounting options. For DIN-rail mounting, the integrated attachment plate slides securely onto standard DIN rails, with simple reverse steps for removal. Wall mounting is also supported with optional kits. Power is supplied via dual, redundant terminal block inputs, allowing for simultaneous connection to live DC power sources for uninterrupted operation if one source fails. Configuration can be initiated directly via DIP switches for basic settings or through a web browser, Windows utility, CLI, or serial console for more advanced management. For PROFINET or EtherNet/IP enabled models, integration into specific automation platforms like Siemens' Simatic Step 7 is simplified with provided GSDML or EDS files and AOIs. The ABC-01 Automatic Backup Configurator accessory can store and restore configurations, simplifying device replacement and system deployment.
Operation and Risk Mitigation
Operating the Moxa EDS-408A is designed for stability, with features aimed at mitigating common industrial network risks. Its robust metal housing provides protection against dust and physical impact (IP30 rating). The dual power inputs with overload and reverse polarity protection further enhance operational safety. In terms of troubleshooting, LED indicators on the front panel provide immediate status feedback for power, network link, and activity, aiding in rapid fault diagnosis. The relay output can be configured to trigger an alarm for critical events such as power failure or network link interruptions, enabling proactive responses to potential issues. For security, features like port locking, SSH, and SNMPv3 offer protection against unauthorized access and network intrusion. While specific error codes are not extensively documented in product overviews, the comprehensive management features, including port mirroring for online debugging, enable detailed analysis of network traffic to identify and resolve performance bottlenecks or issues.
Scalability & Long-Term Value
The Moxa EDS-408A offers significant scalability and long-term value through its advanced networking features and compatibility with evolving industrial communication standards. Its support for various VLAN configurations and extensive management functions allows for network expansion and adaptation as operational needs grow. The availability of models with different port configurations, including fiber optic options for extended reach and immunity to electromagnetic interference, provides flexibility for network design. Moxa's commitment to supporting industrial protocols, including PROFINET and EtherNet/IP, ensures the EDS-408A remains relevant in modern industrial automation, facilitating integration with Industry 4.0 and IIoT initiatives. Furthermore, the device's robust construction and high Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF), cited as up to 126 years for some models, indicate a long operational lifespan and reduced total cost of ownership. The option to manage multiple switches through Moxa's MXstudio software further enhances scalability for large deployments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What are the primary advantages of using the Moxa EDS-408A industrial switch?
The Moxa EDS-408A offers industrial-grade reliability for harsh environments. It provides advanced network redundancy features like Turbo Ring. Ease of management through multiple interfaces is another key benefit.
Q2: Can the Moxa EDS-408A be used in hazardous locations?
Yes, specific models are rated for hazardous locations. Certifications like Class 1, Division 2 and ATEX enable deployment in potentially explosive atmospheres.
Q3: How is the Moxa EDS-408A powered and what are its power input specifications?
It features dual, redundant DC power inputs. Supported voltages typically include 12/24/48 VDC, ensuring continuous operation.
Q4: What network management features does the Moxa EDS-408A provide?
It supports advanced features such as VLANs, QoS, and RMON. Management can be done via web, CLI, Telnet, or Windows utility.
Q5: What are the operating temperature ranges for the Moxa EDS-408A?
Standard models operate from -10°C to 60°C. Wide temperature models extend this range to -40°C to 75°C for extreme conditions.
Q6: Does the Moxa EDS-408A support industrial automation protocols?
Yes, it supports key protocols like EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP, and PROFINET on specific models. This ensures seamless integration with automation systems.
Q7: How does the Moxa EDS-408A ensure network redundancy?
It utilizes proprietary protocols like Turbo Ring and Turbo Chain for fast recovery. STP/RSTP are also supported for robust network resilience.
Q8: What are the physical mounting options for the Moxa EDS-408A?
The switch is designed for DIN-rail mounting, a standard in industrial control cabinets. Wall mounting kits are also available for alternative installations.
Q9: How can I configure or manage the Moxa EDS-408A?
Configuration can be done via DIP switches for basic setup or through comprehensive management tools like a web interface, CLI, or Moxa's MXstudio software.
Q10: What is the typical lifespan or reliability of the Moxa EDS-408A?
The EDS-408A series boasts high reliability with some models citing Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF) up to 126 years. This ensures long-term operational value.