General
unmanaged switch

The Advantech EKI-3525-AE is an industrial network switch with five ports, designed for use in demanding environments. It enables the connection of devices within a local area network (LAN) and supports a data transfer rate of 10/100 Mbps. The switch is unmanaged, meaning it does not require a graphical user interface or configuration software and is ready to operate out of the box. It is particularly suitable for industrial applications where a reliable and stable network connection is required, such as in production facilities, automation systems, or building automation.

Applications

The EKI-3525-AE is used in industrial environments where robust network components are needed. It is suitable for use in factories, power supply facilities, transportation systems, or process automation. The loop detection feature protects the network from disturbances caused by unintended loops, which could lead to broadcast storms. The support for a redundant power supply input of 12 to 48 VDC increases reliability, as a second power path maintains supply in case of a power failure. The integrated P-Fail relay signals a fault condition, such as a power failure, to inform external systems.

Functions and Features in Detail

The switch supports QoS functionality according to IEEE 802.1p, enabling prioritization of data traffic. A VIP port can be configured to assign high priority to time-sensitive data, such as video or audio streams. This ensures that critical data is reliably transmitted even under high network load. Energy efficiency is achieved through support for the IEEE 802.3az standard (Energy Efficient Ethernet): ports without active connections are automatically deactivated to save power. Additionally, the switch regulates power output to the ports based on the length of the Ethernet cable, improving connection efficiency and reliability.

Technical Explanation

Loop detection prevents the network from entering an unstable state due to an unintended loop (e.g., from incorrectly routed cables). The redundant power supply of 12 to 48 VDC ensures the switch continues to function even if one power source fails, which is crucial for critical applications. The P-Fail relay serves as a status indicator and can be integrated into monitoring systems to trigger a response in case of a fault. The QoS function according to IEEE 802.1p allows specific data streams, such as video, to be separated from other data streams and assigned higher priority to minimize latency.

Compatibility and Accessories

The EKI-3525-AE is designed for use with standard Ethernet cables (Cat. 5e or higher). It is compatible with devices supporting 10/100 Mbps Ethernet. PoE (Power over Ethernet) is not supported, as this is an unmanaged switch that does not provide power over the network cable. The mentioned features such as loop detection, redundant power input, and QoS are specific to this model type and enable integration into existing industrial networks without additional configuration.

Mounting and Installation

The switch can be mounted in standard 19-inch racks, with mounting brackets included in the delivery. Installation is performed by connecting Ethernet cables to the ports and connecting the power supply. Configuration is not required via a user interface, as it is an unmanaged switch. Operational readiness is immediate upon connection.

Operational Advantages

The EKI-3525-AE provides a reliable network connection in industrial environments. Loop detection and redundant power supply enhance stability. The QoS function ensures prioritized data transmission, which is particularly beneficial for real-time applications. Energy efficiency via the IEEE 802.3az standard reduces power consumption, especially on inactive ports. The simple installation without configuration makes it suitable even for users without in-depth networking knowledge.