Pepperl+Fuchs FieldConnex Ethernet-APL rail field switch

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Pepperl+Fuchs has announced the FieldConnex Ethernet-APL Rail Field Switch for DIN rail mounting that enables direct and barrier-free access to and from the field devices of process plants via Ethernet-APL.

The Ethernet-APL field switch has been designed with intrinsic safety explosion protection, Ex ic IIC, which allows Ethernet in hazardous areas of Zone 2 and Division 2. In addition, the company says it is the only switch in the world that supports the Manchester Bus-powered Physical Layer (MBP) alongside Ethernet-APL and can therefore be easily added to the existing base of Profibus PA devices.

The Ethernet-APL rail field switch makes it possible to operate existing and new field devices at the same time via a common infrastructure. Old and new technologies are used in parallel, which not only protects the investment in existing equipment technology, but individual measuring points can be equipped with new functions or quick communication in a targeted manner, if required.

The Ethernet-APL rail field switch features integrated diagnostics for the physical layer and is designed for star topologies typically used in compact or indoor installations. It has the following features and meets the requirements of cable lengths of up to 200 m to the field device, indoor installations such as in the chemical and pharmaceutical industry, installation of the switches in switch cabinets or junction boxes, Ethernet redundancy at the plant level and explosion protection for all hazardous areas.

For more information: https://www.pepperl-fuchs.com/australia/en/advanced_physical_layer.htm.