Industrial Managed Network Switch Hirschmann MS20-1600SAAEHC 16Port DIN Rail

　　The Hirschmann MS20-1600SAAEHC stands as a definitive solution for building resilient and high-performance industrial infrastructure.This device is a modular Industrial Managed Switch that delivers a critical blend of connectivity,intelligent management,and rugged reliability.As a core component of the Hirschmann OpenRail series,this Industrial Network Switch is engineered to provide comprehensive Layer 2 management capabilities in a compact,DIN-rail-mountable form factor.It is specifically built to withstand the electrical noise,temperature variations,and mechanical stresses found in harsh industrial settings,making it an ideal networking backbone for applications in factory automation,process control,and other demanding operational technology(OT)environments.Its design philosophy centers on maximizing network availability and simplifying administration,ensuring that critical data flows uninterrupted.

　　1.Product Overview and System Integration Philosophy

　　The MS20-1600SAAEHC belongs to a family of products designed with modularity and future-proofing in mind.As part of the OpenRail series,it features a modular backbone that allows for flexibility in a constantly evolving technological landscape.This specific model comes pre-configured with 16 Fast Ethernet(10/100 Mbps)ports,providing ample connectivity for a wide array of field devices,sensors,and controllers.A key differentiator of this Industrial Network Switch is its"Enhanced"software version,which includes a robust set of features for remote access,advanced diagnostics,traffic filtering,and network redundancy right out of the box.The switch operates on the store-and-forward switching method and features a fanless design,enhancing its reliability by eliminating a common point of mechanical failure.

　　2.Technical Specifications and Physical Design

　　The technical profile of the MS20-1600SAAEHC underscores its suitability for industrial applications.It requires a 24VDC operating power source(with a range of 18-32VDC)and consumes a maximum of 500mA at 24VDC,contributing to its energy-efficient operation.The unit is compact,with dimensions of 202 x 133 x 100 mm,and weighs 880 grams,allowing for high-density installations on standard DIN rails within a control cabinet.Its IP20 protection rating ensures it is protected against contact with solid objects larger than 12.5 millimeters,making it suitable for enclosed panels.The switch is designed to operate reliably in temperatures from 0°C to+60°C and can withstand storage and transport temperatures from-40°C to+70°C,with an operating humidity range of 10%to 95%non-condensing.An impressive testament to its built-quality is its high Mean Time Between Failures(MTBF)of 36.5 years.

　　3.Core Features and Functional Capabilities

　　Advanced Network Redundancy and Reliability

　　This Industrial Managed Switch is engineered for maximum network uptime.It supports Hirschmann's proprietary HIPER-Ring protocol,which can achieve a ring network recovery time of less than 0.3 seconds,ensuring that a single link failure does not bring down the entire network.It also supports standard protocols like RSTP(Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol)and MRP(Media Redundancy Protocol)for interoperability in multi-vendor environments.Furthermore,the switch supports redundant 24VDC power inputs,providing an additional layer of resilience against power supply failures.

　　Comprehensive Management and Security Suite

　　The"Enhanced"software on the MS20-1600SAAEHC provides a wide array of management interfaces,including a serial console,a web interface(HTTP/HTTPS),SNMP(v1,v2c,and v3),and Telnet.For initial setup and diagnostics,it features a USB interface for use with an automatic configuration adapter.Security features are robust for an industrial device,including port security based on MAC and IP addresses,and SNMPv3 for secure network management.It also supports IEEE 802.1Q VLANs for segmenting network traffic and enhancing security.

　　Quality of Service(QoS)and Traffic Management

　　To ensure that critical real-time data is prioritized,this Industrial Network Switch offers sophisticated QoS mechanisms.It supports four priority queues and allows for traffic prioritization based on IEEE 802.1D/p standards.Features like IGMP Snooping and Querier efficiently manage multicast traffic,preventing it from flooding the network,while a broadcast storm limiter protects the network from malfunctioning devices.

　　Robust Environmental and Electromagnetic Compatibility

　　Built to industrial standards,the switch exhibits strong EMC immunity.It is tested against electrostatic discharge(ESD)at 6kV contact and 8kV air discharge,electromagnetic fields of 10 V/m,and electrical fast transients(burst)and surge as per relevant IEC/EN standards.This ensures stable operation in electrically noisy industrial environments.It also meets various industrial certifications,including cULus for industrial control equipment and Class 1 Division 2 for hazardous locations.

　　4.Primary Application Areas and Industry Solutions

　　The Hirschmann MS20-1600SAAEHC is deployed across a diverse range of sectors where network reliability is non-negotiable.In industrial automation and control systems,it forms the communication backbone for PLCs,HMIs,motor drives,and I/O modules on the factory floor.Its compatibility with protocols like EtherNet/IP and PROFINET ensures seamless integration into these environments.In the transportation sector,its rugged design makes it suitable for railway and trackside applications.It is also an ideal fit for power utility substations and other critical infrastructure projects where its robust construction and advanced management capabilities ensure long-term,dependable operation.

　　5.Operational Advantages and Economic Value

　　The primary value of this Industrial Managed Switch lies in its ability to maximize production uptime.By implementing rapid redundancy protocols like HIPER-Ring,it minimizes the risk of costly production stoppages caused by network failures.The comprehensive diagnostic tools,including LEDs,signal contacts,syslog,and RMON,enable proactive maintenance and faster troubleshooting,reducing both mean time to repair(MTTR)and total cost of ownership.The fanless,rugged design translates to lower maintenance needs and a longer operational lifespan compared to commercial-grade switches,providing a superior return on investment over the lifecycle of the industrial asset.

　　Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)

　　What is the significance of the"Enhanced"software version on this switch?

　　The"Enhanced"software version provides a comprehensive set of features that are essential for a modern Industrial Managed Switch.This includes advanced redundancy protocols like HIPER-Ring and RSTP,sophisticated management options via SNMP and web interface,and critical security features such as port security and VLANs.It essentially provides the necessary toolkit to build,manage,and secure a robust industrial network without requiring an upgrade to the more advanced"Professional"software version.

　　How does the HIPER-Ring redundancy feature enhance network reliability?

　　HIPER-Ring is a proprietary Hirschmann protocol that configures connected switches in a physical ring topology but operates it logically as a line.If a cable break or switch failure occurs anywhere in the ring,the network can reconfigure itself within 300 milliseconds to maintain connectivity for all remaining devices.This ultra-fast recovery time is crucial for industrial applications where even brief network interruptions can lead to significant production downtime or process disruptions.

　　Can this switch operate in extreme temperature conditions?

　　The MS20-1600SAAEHC is designed for standard industrial environments with an operating temperature range of 0°C to+60°C.While this covers a wide range of factory and indoor industrial settings,it is not rated for extended operation in extreme cold or heat without climate control.For more severe ambient conditions,other variants in the Hirschmann portfolio with a"T"or"E"temperature rating(e.g.,-40°C to+70°C)would be more appropriate.

　　What certifications does this switch hold for use in industrial and hazardous environments?

　　This specific model carries the cUL 508 listing for industrial control equipment and cUL 1604 Class 1 Division 2 for hazardous locations,making it suitable for a wide array of industrial applications in North America.Other certifications for substations(IEC 61850)and railways are available as optional variants,indicated by a different letter in the product part number.

　　What are the key physical installation characteristics of this device?

　　The switch is designed for easy and secure mounting on a standard DIN rail,which is the norm inside industrial control panels.Its compact dimensions of 202 x 133 x 100 mm and lightweight design(880g)allow for efficient use of cabinet space.The power is connected via a 4-pin plug-in terminal block,ensuring a secure and vibration-resistant connection.