IMS-4S and IMS-4T 4-Port SFP Switch Modules for the IMS-6325-5

Mapping and maintaining a corporate network can be a thankless job. User demands can change overnight, and many business owners don’t consider the variety of connectivity options a network may need to support or understand the numerous ports required to connect the hundreds of devices. 

Regardless of network size, IT departments should consider implementing an industrial modular switch with SFP (Small Form Factor Pluggable) capabilities to streamline network maintenance and ensure reliability. A flexible solution can optimize your business network now and in  the future.

With its advanced layer 3 features, the PlanetechUSA IMS-6325-5 L3 DIN-rail industrial Ethernet switch supports up to 5 interchangeable modules. These combine to provide connectivity for networking options like 10/100/1000BASE-T and Gigabit SFP fiber. Additionally, the switch has two fixed modules providing 4 Gigabit copper ports and 4 10G SFP+ ports, while the other offers digital input and output for control and a power terminal block for 12- 48V power redundancy.

IMS-6325-5

The modular design of this industrial switch lets network administrators plan for the future while meeting the demands of today. Adaptability minimizes the need for additional switches, simplifying installation and reducing costs. By using a modular switch, IT can reconfigure a network on the fly and with minimal disruption. 

IMS-6325-5 Application Diagram

IMS-4S and IMS-4T 4-Port SFP Switch Modules

The IMS-4S and IMS-4T are swappable switch modules for the IMS-6325-5. Both products support 100/1000 Mbps speeds, allowing administrators to adjust speeds to fit distance and demand. When placed in the industrial chassis, the switch can operate in temperatures ranging from -40 to 75 °C.

Why Use A Plug-and-Play Switch?

Plug-and-play devices simplify installation, improve efficiency, and reduce complexity. They allow users with limited technical skills to add printers, screens, and access points in minutes.

Simplified Installation 

Without plug-and-play, users may need to download and install drivers, which takes time. Add in connecting and configuring the device, and a process that could have taken minutes, now may take hours.

Plug-and-play relies on the controlling software to identify and configure the device for the operating environment. When an IMS-4S or IMS-4T module is placed in the IMS-6325-5 chassis, the software recognizes the module and its four SFP ports. 

Reduced Complexity 

Large networks use lots of switches, switches with lots of ports, or both. These configurations can complicate network management. Every switch on a network represents another device that needs to be monitored and maintained. Every port must be mapped and labeled so that a critical connection is not accidentally broken.

Deploying a swappable switch, with five potential modules, can streamline existing network configurations. In an example scenario, imagine a local area network (LAN) has been operating successfully for years using a switch with 24 Ethernet ports. Modern demand for high-speed data transmission and fiber connections eventually necessitates an upgrade. Because the 24-port switch does not support fiber, network engineers are faced with two options:

  • Replace the switch with one that can support copper and fiber cables.
  • Purchase a switch with one copper and several fiber connections to act as a bridge between the existing 24-port switch and the fiber cables.

Replacing the 24-port switch can be expensive and disruptive. The LAN-connected devices will need to be unplugged and reconnected to the new switch. While the second option is less disruptive, it adds another switch that will need to be managed.

With an IMS 6325-5, an IMS-4S or IMS-4T module could be added or swapped with another module to provide the fiber-capable ports. Plug-and-play capabilities means no disruption to existing connections and no additional hardware.

IMS-6325-5 Application Expansion Cards

IMS 6325-5 Advanced Connectivity 

The IMS-6325-5 also has a fixed module that includes four 10G SFP slots, supporting 10GBASE-SR/LR, 2500BASE-X, and 1000BASE SX/LX  transceivers. This provides support for a wide array of distances and speeds for larger bandwidth and high performance applications like AI, streaming and other high-performance networking needs.

Resilient Design for Extreme Environments 

The ruggedized IMS 6325-5 chassis supports wall mounting and DIN-rail installation, allowing secure positioning in tight spaces. The capability of this switch to withstand temperature extremes (-40 to 75 degrees Celsius), makes expanded placement options throughout a campus, lab or manufacturing facility simple.

Layer 2 Features

Layer 2 features are designed to enhance network efficiency and control. The switch allows secure and segmented traffic within the network, tunneling, and MAC-based virtual LANs. Traffic management uses link aggregation for increased bandwidth and reliability. It supports traffic prioritization and rate limiting on every port. 

L2/L4 Features

Layer 3 Routing 

Comprehensive Layer 3 features support dynamic routing protocols, enabling efficient traffic management and flexible network routing across various environments. The switch module provides seamless inter-network communication and optimized data flow. Advanced routing capabilities ensure long-term scalability and adaptability. 

Secure  Network Access 

Cybersecurity is critical in industrial settings.  To ensure comprehensive network security and secured management, the IMS 6325-5 umbrella features advanced Access Control Lists (ACLs) that support Layers 2, 3, and 4 for precise traffic filtering based on MAC addresses, IP addresses, and protocols. The switch also supports IEEE 802.1X port-based authentication, IP-MAC port binding, and MAC filtering for enhanced access control.

Centralized Remote Management 

The IMS-6325-5 offers centralized, remote management of network devices through a universal network management system. IT teams can monitor operational statuses and manage networks from a unified platform. No need for on-site visits to troubleshoot a problem, which eliminates time-consuming, in-person travel. With a centralized solution, network management is more efficient, allowing companies to address issues and maintain network performance across diverse landscapes and remote deployments. 

For more information on the IMS-6325-5, contact Planet Technology.