Control Network Newsletter

New Skorpion 8-Port Gigabit Switch Provides the Necessary Performance

May 2012 – IP cameras and modern workstations require Gigabit Ethernet (GigE) speed in order to achieve the highest possible performance in an automation system. Although 10 Mbps and 100 Mbps automation systems are usually acceptable today, they are not ready to accommodate the latest equipment. Contemporary Controls has introduced an eight-port EISK8-GT Skorpion Gigabit Switch which can operate at 10, 100 or 1000 Mbps by having its speed set automatically through auto-negotiation with its link partner.  Therefore, it is compatible with existing 10 and 100 Mbps systems and ready to accommodate the newer 1000 Mbps devices. Physically, it is identical to its 10/100 Mbps predecessor the EISK8-100T with is compact metal enclosure size and DIN-rail mounting.  As a drop-in replacement, there is no requirement to change control panel design. Like other products in the Skorpion series, it can be powered from a common 24 VAC/VDC supply and operate over the industrial temperature range of 0-60° C.

With the advent of Gigabit speed, there is a demand for larger Ethernet frames.  The EISK8-GT can support Jumbo Frames up to 9216 bytes.  Even 10/100 Mbps systems would benefit from this new switch because cascaded switches will automatically negotiate to gigabit speed over the backbone connection. Gigabit speed utilizes all four pairs of the Ethernet cable for communication – with CAT6 as the preferred cable.  The EISK8-GT supports auto-MDIX so switches can be cascaded without the need of Gigabit crossover cables which are different from 10/100 crossover cables.  With the proper cabling and the EISK8-GT, you are built for speed. Even if you do not need the speed today, your automation system is ready for any eventuality.

To learn more go to the EISK product page.