Advantech EKI-1526-CE Managed Gigabit Industrial Fiber Switch

The Advantech EKI-1526-CE Managed Gigabit Industrial Fiber Switch is engineered to deliver robust, high-speed network connectivity in demanding industrial environments. This switch boasts advanced management features, superior performance, and a hardened design, making it an ideal solution for critical infrastructure, transportation, and automation systems. Key advantages include its support for dual power inputs, extensive environmental resilience, and comprehensive network management capabilities. Core features encompass 24 Gigabit Ethernet ports, including various fiber optic options, ensuring flexible and high-bandwidth data transmission. Its technical parameters are designed for industrial rigor, offering high MTBF (Mean Time Between Failures) and operational stability across a wide temperature range.

Product Specifications

| Feature                   | Specification                                    |

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

| Ethernet Ports            | 24 x Gigabit Ethernet                            |

| Fiber Ports               | Varies (e.g., 4 x SFP, 2 x SFP+ depending on model) |

| Management                | Fully Managed (CLI, Web, SNMP)                   |

| Power Input               | Dual Redundant Power Inputs (e.g., 12-48 VDC)    |

| Operating Temperature     | -40°C to 75°C (-40°F to 167°F)                    |

| Enclosure                 | IP30 Metal Casing                                |

| MTBF                      | High (e.g., > 500,000 hours)                     |

| Protocol Support          | IEEE 802.3, 802.3u, 802.3x, 802.3ad, 802.1Q, etc.  |

| Dimensions (W x D x H)    | Varies by specific model                         |

Core Features & Market Positioning

The Advantech EKI-1526-CE distinguishes itself through its robust feature set tailored for industrial applications. Its fully managed capabilities provide granular control over network traffic, including Quality of Service (QoS), VLAN tagging, and Link Aggregation Control Protocol (LACP), essential for prioritizing critical data streams in automation and control systems. The switch's resilience against extreme temperatures, vibration, and electromagnetic interference positions it as a reliable choice where standard commercial switches would fail. Furthermore, the inclusion of both copper and versatile fiber optic ports (SFP/SFP+) offers significant flexibility for extending network reach and mitigating electromagnetic noise, a crucial factor in harsh industrial settings. This combination of performance, manageability, and ruggedization makes the EKI-1526-CE a compelling option for engineers demanding uncompromising network reliability.

Key Application Scenarios

Engineers and system integrators frequently deploy the Advantech EKI-1526-CE in scenarios requiring high-density, reliable Gigabit connectivity. Its extensive fiber port options are particularly beneficial for extending networks across large facilities, such as in manufacturing plants or mining operations, where distances exceed copper cable limitations and electromagnetic interference is prevalent. In transportation networks, including intelligent transportation systems (ITS) and railway applications, the switch's rugged design and wide operating temperature range ensure uninterrupted data flow for video surveillance, traffic management, and communication systems. Furthermore, its managed features are indispensable in smart grid environments and critical infrastructure monitoring, enabling secure and prioritized data transmission for operational technology (OT) networks.

Practical System Integration Guidance

Integrating the Advantech EKI-1526-CE into an industrial network involves straightforward steps, leveraging its user-friendly management interfaces. Initial power-up can be facilitated by connecting to its dual DC power inputs, ensuring redundancy from the outset. Network configuration typically begins via a console port or initial DHCP assignment, allowing access to the web-based or Command Line Interface (CLI) management portal. For fiber connectivity, ensure appropriate SFP/SFP+ modules are installed and compatible fiber cables (e.g., multimode or single-mode) are used, adhering to industry standards for clean connections. Implementing VLANs for network segmentation and LACP for link redundancy are common configuration tasks that enhance network performance and resilience. The switch's support for standard protocols simplifies interoperability with existing industrial control systems and network devices.

Operation and Risk Mitigation

Operating the Advantech EKI-1526-CE in industrial environments requires adherence to best practices for network stability and safety. Proper grounding of the switch and its enclosure is paramount to prevent electrostatic discharge and protect against electrical surges. For dual power input configurations, ensure both power sources are stable and within the specified voltage range to avoid operational interruptions. Regular firmware updates, readily available from Advantech, are crucial for patching security vulnerabilities and introducing new features, thereby mitigating cyber risks. In the event of link failures, the managed features, such as Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) or Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol (RSTP), automatically reroute traffic, minimizing downtime. Faults related to port status or power failures are clearly indicated via LED indicators and accessible through the management interface, aiding in swift troubleshooting.

Scalability & Long-Term Value

The Advantech EKI-1526-CE offers significant scalability and long-term value, particularly for organizations embracing Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) initiatives and digital transformation. Its array of Gigabit copper and fiber ports provides ample bandwidth for current operational needs and future expansion. The flexibility in choosing SFP/SFP+ modules allows for adaptation to evolving network topology requirements, including longer reach or higher speeds as needed. As a managed switch, it integrates seamlessly with higher-level network management systems, facilitating centralized monitoring and control. This compatibility ensures that the EKI-1526-CE can be a foundational component of a scalable industrial network infrastructure, supporting the increasing data demands of sophisticated automation, analytics, and cloud connectivity well into the future.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What are the primary advantages of the EKI-1526-CE for industrial networks?

The Advantech EKI-1526-CE offers robust Gigabit performance crucial for demanding industrial applications. Its managed features provide advanced network control and traffic prioritization. The switch is built for extreme environments, ensuring high reliability and operational uptime.

Q2: Can the EKI-1526-CE be used in outdoor industrial settings?

While designed for industrial use, its IP30 rating suggests protection against solid objects larger than 2.5mm, not water. For outdoor deployments, protective enclosures or specific outdoor-rated Advantech models are typically required.

Q3: How does the EKI-1526-CE support network redundancy?

It features dual power inputs for uninterrupted operation if one power source fails. The switch also supports redundant network paths via protocols like RSTP, ensuring seamless failover. LACP is available for link aggregation redundancy.

Q4: What types of fiber optic connections does the EKI-1526-CE support?

The EKI-1526-CE supports various SFP and SFP+ modules, allowing for flexible fiber optic connections. This includes options for multimode and single-mode fiber over different distances. Consult the specific model for exact port configurations.

Q5: Is the EKI-1526-CE easy to configure for network segmentation?

Yes, as a managed switch, it fully supports VLAN tagging (IEEE 802.1Q). This allows for easy network segmentation, enhancing security and performance by isolating traffic. Configuration is accessible via web or CLI.

Q6: What is the typical lifespan or MTBF of this industrial switch?

Advantech industrial switches like the EKI-1526-CE are designed for longevity, often boasting Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF) exceeding 500,000 hours. This high MTBF rating indicates exceptional reliability for critical infrastructure.

Q7: How does the EKI-1526-CE handle electromagnetic interference (EMI)?

The hardened metal casing and the use of fiber optic ports significantly mitigate electromagnetic interference. Fiber optic transmission is immune to EMI, making it ideal for electrically noisy industrial environments.

Q8: Can I integrate the EKI-1526-CE with existing SCADA or PLC systems?

Absolutely. Its support for standard industrial protocols and managed networking features ensures seamless integration with SCADA, PLCs, and other industrial control systems. SNMP is available for monitoring.

Q9: What are the power input requirements for the EKI-1526-CE?

The EKI-1526-CE typically operates with a wide DC voltage input range, often from 12 to 48 VDC. It supports dual, redundant power inputs for enhanced operational continuity and reliability.

Q10: Does the EKI-1526-CE support Power over Ethernet (PoE)?

The EKI-1526-CE series itself generally does not provide PoE output. Its focus is on high-speed data switching and fiber connectivity. Advantech offers separate PoE-enabled industrial switch lines if that functionality is required.