SCALANCE
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about SCALANCE from 3G Electric.
What is the difference between managed and unmanaged SCALANCE DIN rail-mount Ethernet switches?
Managed SCALANCE switches support configuration and network management functions such as redundancy, diagnostics, and error signaling. They typically include features like an integrated redundancy manager or a select/set button for local adjustments. Unmanaged SCALANCE switches operate without configuration; they simply forward Ethernet frames between connected devices. Unmanaged models are suitable for basic connectivity where network segmentation or monitoring is not required. Managed models are used when network resilience, remote diagnostics, or controlled data paths are needed. Both types are available in DIN rail-mount form factors with RJ45 ports and LED diagnostics.
What IP ratings are available for SCALANCE industrial Ethernet switches?
SCALANCE DIN rail-mount Ethernet switches are available with IP20 and IP30 ratings. IP20 indicates protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm, such as fingers, and no protection against water. IP30 indicates protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 mm, such as tools and wires, and also no water protection. These ratings are typical for equipment installed inside control cabinets or protected enclosures. The specific rating depends on the model; for example, some unmanaged switches with 4 or 8 ports are IP20, while certain managed and unmanaged models with 5, 7, 8, or 10 ports are IP30.
What network speeds do SCALANCE DIN rail-mount Ethernet switches support?
SCALANCE DIN rail-mount Ethernet switches in the 3G Electric catalog support 10/100 Mbit/s or 10/100/1000 Mbit/s network interfaces. The 10/100 Mbit/s models are suitable for legacy devices, low-bandwidth control traffic, and applications where gigabit speeds are not required. The 10/100/1000 Mbit/s models support higher throughput for data-intensive devices, larger network segments, or future capacity needs. Both speed classes use standard RJ45 ports. The appropriate speed depends on the connected devices and the overall network design. Managed and unmanaged variants exist in both speed ranges.
How many ports are available on SCALANCE DIN rail-mount Ethernet switches?
SCALANCE DIN rail-mount Ethernet switches are available with port counts ranging from 4 to 16 RJ45 ports. Unmanaged models include 4, 5, and 8 port versions. Managed models include 7, 8, 10, and 16 port versions. The port count determines how many Ethernet devices can be connected directly to the switch. For small cells with a few devices, a 4 or 5 port unmanaged switch may be sufficient. For larger network segments requiring management and redundancy, higher port count managed switches are used. All ports are RJ45 and support standard Ethernet cabling.
What is the Integrated Redundancy Manager on SCALANCE managed switches?
The Integrated Redundancy Manager is a feature found on certain managed SCALANCE DIN rail-mount Ethernet switches. It enables the switch to participate in a redundant ring topology, where network traffic can be rerouted if a cable or segment fails. This helps maintain network availability in industrial applications where downtime is costly. The redundancy manager typically works in conjunction with other switches that support the same redundancy protocol. Models with this feature include managed switches with 7, 8, or 10 RJ45 ports at 10/100/1000 Mbit/s. Configuration is done through the switch management interface.
What input voltage do SCALANCE DIN rail-mount Ethernet switches require?
SCALANCE DIN rail-mount Ethernet switches in the 3G Electric catalog operate on 24 V DC input. This is a common control voltage in industrial automation panels, allowing the switches to be powered from the same supply as other control components. The 24 V DC input is specified for unmanaged models with 4, 5, and 8 ports, and is typical for the managed models as well. Users should verify the exact voltage range and power consumption for the specific model from the technical datasheet. Proper polarity and fusing should be observed during installation.
