Fully managed switches provide more functionality on the plant floor

The new AllenBradley Stratix 5200 fully managed switches offer various hardware configurations and features. These options give machine builders more value and flexibility.

Stratix 5200 switches offer Layer 2 access switching, base or full firmware, and 6, 10, or 20 port options, said Doug Weber, business manager at Rockwell Automation. Customers can use these switches for a wide range of industrial applications and can improve productivity through a new web-based graphical user interface (GUI).

Stratix 5200 managed switches are based on the Cisco IOS XE platform that includes a new graphical web user interface for improved performance, enhanced troubleshooting tools, fundamental disaster recovery features and customisable dashboards. They also align with Cisco Cyber Vision Sensor options and tie into Cisco TrustSec software for a defined segmentation approach. In addition, they offer fundamental protection against counterfeit hardware and software risks and additional encryption options.

The Stratix 5200 switch includes a robust set of switching features to support a wide range of architectures and complies with international standards, such as IEC 62443-4-2 for cybersecurity, offers port security, and access control lists.

Choosing a switch co-developed by Rockwell Automation and Cisco allows operational technology (OT) and information technology (IT) professionals to leverage tools and technology that is familiar to them. Optimised integration means easier commissioning and actionable diagnostics.