Switches

The Ethernet-APL rail field switch from FieldConnex is the first switch in process automation to combine common communication technology with Ethernet-APL. The rail field switch simultaneously transmits power and data on an Ethernet wire into hazardous areas of the process plant.

Ethernet-APL rail field switch for DIN rail mounting makes migration from fieldbus to Ethernet not only easy for users, but also cost-effective. In addition to Ethernet-APL, the switch is the only product worldwide which can optionally handle the Manchester bus-powered physical layer (MBP), and it can be flexibly configured to connect to an existing PROFIBUS PA instrument base. 

The Ethernet-APL rail field switch is perfectly suited for compact plant layouts. In addition to the performance features for IIot applications, it provides everything that is typical for FieldConnex and the simple mounting of fieldbus installations:

• Robustness
• Wide temperature range
• Use in hazardous areas
• Explosion protection with intrinsic safety / Ex ic IIC or Ex ia IIC

The first generation of Ethernet-APL-capable switches marks the first step of FieldConnex products towards IIoT and thus makes an important contribution to the digital transformation in the process industry - further innovative components will follow.

For easy and quick setup at the customer site, the FieldConnex® Ethernet-APL switches are available with enclosure solutions. Pre-configured and fully certified for Zone 2/22 environments, the solutions can be selected as GRP-housing as well as stainless steel versions. Both enclosure types guarantee reliable operation even in very harsh environments. The high-quality materials are robust, durable, and resistant against high temperatures. Based on pre-engineered templates, users can easily customize many internally installed components such as splice trays, cable entries according to their needs.