Moxa EDS-518E-4GTXSFP Advanced Gigabit Managed Industrial Switch

The Moxa EDS-518E-4GTXSFP stands as a robust Gigabit managed industrial switch, engineered to deliver exceptional performance and reliability in demanding environments. This switch boasts an impressive array of features designed for high-throughput, secure, and stable industrial network operations. With 14 10/100/1000Base-T(X) ports and 4 Gigabit SFP/SFP ports, it offers extensive connectivity options for diverse industrial applications. Key technical specifications include a -40 to 75°C operating temperature range, ensuring functionality in extreme conditions, and dual 12/24/48 VDC redundant power inputs for uninterrupted operation. Its advanced management capabilities, including support for Modbus TCP and SNMP, enable seamless integration into existing industrial control systems and facilitate efficient network monitoring and diagnostics. The EDS-518E-4GTXSFP is designed for mission-critical applications where network uptime and data integrity are paramount.

Product Specifications

| Feature                 | Specification                                       |

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

| Ethernet Ports          | 14 x 10/100/1000Base-T(X)                           |

| SFP Ports               | 4 x Gigabit SFP/SFP slots                           |

| Power Input             | 12/24/48 VDC, redundant                             |

| Operating Temperature   | -40 to 75°C                                         |

| Management Protocols    | Modbus TCP, SNMPv1/v2c/v3, LLDP, IGMP Snooping, VLAN |

| Security Features       | Port Security, RADIUS, TACACS+, SSH, SSL, HTTPS     |

| Mounting                | DIN-Rail, Panel Mount                               |

| Dimensions              | 177.7 x 142.5 x 51 mm                               |

| Warranty                | 5 years                                             |

Core Features & Market Positioning

The Moxa EDS-518E-4GTXSFP differentiates itself in the industrial networking market through its high port density combined with advanced Gigabit Ethernet capabilities. Its 14 copper ports offer flexibility for connecting numerous devices, while the four SFP slots provide scalable, long-distance fiber optic connections, crucial for sprawling industrial sites or environments with electromagnetic interference. This combination addresses the growing need for high-bandwidth data transmission in Industry 4.0 applications. The switch's robust industrial design, including its wide operating temperature range and redundant power inputs, positions it as a reliable choice for harsh environments where consumer-grade networking equipment would fail. Furthermore, its comprehensive security features, such as SSH, SSL, and RADIUS authentication, are vital for protecting sensitive industrial control networks from cyber threats, a growing concern for plant operators. Moxa's reputation for industrial-grade hardware further solidifies its market standing, offering assurance of long-term performance and support.

Key Application Scenarios

The versatile nature of the Moxa EDS-518E-4GTXSFP makes it an ideal solution for a wide spectrum of industrial applications. In factory automation, it efficiently connects PLCs, HMIs, sensors, and robotic arms, enabling real-time data exchange and control crucial for smart manufacturing processes. For transportation systems, such as railway signaling, traffic management, and intelligent transportation systems (ITS), its rugged design and reliable connectivity ensure the continuous operation of surveillance cameras, communication devices, and control systems under demanding environmental conditions. In the energy sector, including power generation, transmission, and distribution, the switch supports SCADA systems and substation automation, facilitating secure and high-speed data aggregation and remote monitoring. Its suitability extends to critical infrastructure monitoring, oil and gas operations, and any scenario requiring resilient, high-performance networking in remote or challenging locations.

Practical System Integration Guidance

Integrating the Moxa EDS-518E-4GTXSFP into an industrial network is straightforward, leveraging its intuitive web-based interface and standard networking protocols. For installation, the switch can be mounted on a DIN-rail or using an optional panel-mount kit, allowing flexible deployment within control cabinets or enclosures. Connecting devices is as simple as plugging Ethernet cables into the RJ45 ports or fiber optic transceivers (SFP modules) into the SFP slots. The switch supports auto-negotiation for speed and duplex modes, simplifying initial setup. For advanced configuration, users can access the switch via its default IP address (often 192.168.1.1) using a web browser or through console port access using an RS-232 cable. Network segmentation using VLANs can be configured to improve performance and security by isolating traffic. Enabling features like IGMP snooping is beneficial for multicast traffic commonly found in video surveillance or streaming applications, optimizing bandwidth utilization.

Operation and Risk Mitigation

Operating the Moxa EDS-518E-4GTXSFP within its specified parameters ensures maximum reliability and longevity. Regular firmware updates, available from Moxa's support website, are crucial for patching security vulnerabilities and enhancing performance. Network administrators should proactively monitor switch health through its built-in diagnostic tools, such as SNMP traps and syslog messaging, which can alert to potential issues like port failures or power supply interruptions. Risk mitigation involves configuring robust security settings, including strong passwords, disabling unused services, and implementing access control lists (ACLs) to prevent unauthorized access. For troubleshooting, common issues like connectivity loss can often be resolved by checking cable integrity, verifying SFP module compatibility, and reviewing port status and statistics via the management interface. Overheating is a potential risk in confined, poorly ventilated enclosures; therefore, ensuring adequate airflow and operating within the specified temperature range is vital.

Scalability & Long-Term Value

The Moxa EDS-518E-4GTXSFP offers significant scalability and long-term value, particularly for evolving industrial networks. The inclusion of four Gigabit SFP ports is a key enabler of future-proofing, allowing for seamless upgrades to higher-speed fiber optics or longer transmission distances as network demands grow, without replacing the entire switch. Its support for standard protocols like VLANs and Link Aggregation Control Protocol (LACP) facilitates the creation of redundant and high-bandwidth pathways, crucial for integrating with future network architectures. Compatibility with Modbus TCP and other industrial communication protocols ensures smooth integration with existing SCADA and DCS systems, as well as newer IIoT platforms. This backward compatibility and forward-looking design mean the EDS-518E-4GTXSFP can remain a core component of an industrial network for many years, supporting the transition towards digital transformation and smart factory initiatives by providing a reliable and high-performance data backbone.

FAQs

What are the power requirements for the Moxa EDS-518E-4GTXSFP?

The switch supports dual redundant power inputs, accepting 12, 24, or 48 VDC. This allows for connection to various industrial power sources and provides failover protection.

How do I configure VLANs on the Moxa EDS-518E-4GTXSFP?

VLANs are configured via the web interface under the 'VLAN' settings. You can create VLAN IDs and assign ports to specific VLANs.

Can I use different types of SFP modules with this switch?

Yes, the four SFP slots are compatible with various Gigabit SFP modules, including multi-mode and single-mode fiber, as well as copper SFP transceivers.

What is the warranty period for the EDS-518E-4GTXSFP?

Moxa typically offers a comprehensive warranty for its industrial networking products. The EDS-518E-4GTXSFP comes with a 5-year warranty.

How does the switch handle redundancy?

It supports redundant power inputs for continuous operation. It also supports various ring redundancy protocols like Turbo Ring and ERPS for network resilience.

What security features are included in the EDS-518E-4GTXSFP?

The switch offers robust security including port security, IEEE 802.1X authentication, RADIUS, TACACS+, SSH, SSL, and HTTPS for secure remote management.

Is this switch suitable for outdoor deployments?

While designed for industrial environments, outdoor deployment depends on enclosure protection. Its wide operating temperature range (-40 to 75°C) is suitable for harsh conditions.

How do I access the management interface of the switch?

You can access the management interface via a web browser using its IP address, or through the console port using an RS-232 serial connection.

What are the main advantages of using Gigabit Ethernet ports?

Gigabit ports provide significantly higher data transfer speeds (up to 1000 Mbps), enabling faster communication for demanding applications like video surveillance and large data transfers.

Does the switch support industrial protocols like Modbus TCP?

Yes, the EDS-518E-4GTXSFP supports Modbus TCP, allowing seamless integration and management within existing industrial automation systems and SCADA networks.