IoT solutions
The rapid evolution of industrial automation, driven by trends such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), is placing increasing demands on network infrastructure. Gigabit Ethernet (also known as GigE) has become a key component to future-proof networks. At ACTE, we have solutions that can help you.
Build future-proof networks with Gigabit Ethernet
The rapid evolution of industrial automation, driven by trends such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), is placing increasing demands on network infrastructure. Gigabit Ethernet (also known as GigE) has become a key component to future-proof networks and enable greater data traffic and efficient management of new industrial applications.
Industrial networks and Ethernet technologies
Two major shifts in industrial networks
Industrial networks are undergoing two major shifts to keep up with modern technologies:
- From fieldbus technologies to Fast Ethernet
Fast Ethernet (also known as 100Base) has replaced many of the traditional fieldbus solutions due to its simplicity and compatibility. Popular protocols such as EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP/IP and PROFINET are based on the Ethernet standard, facilitating integration and connectivity. - Increase bandwidth and reduce latency with Gigabit Ethernet
Gigabit Ethernet (1000Base) offers between 10 and 100 times the bandwidth of 10/100Base networks. With GigE, you get more data capacity, better handling of high-resolution video streams and shorter latency - which is crucial for industrial applications that place high demands on performance.
When should you choose Gigabit Ethernet?
- Fast Ethernet is often sufficient for simple industrial control and monitoring applications.
- Gigabit Ethernet is necessary for applications with high data rate requirements, such as high-resolution video streaming or real-time monitoring. Fixed Ethernet can often be perceived as insufficient for these requirements, as it can result in choppy video and lack of delay control.
- By combining Fast Ethernet and Gigabit Ethernet, you get a flexible solution that meets both existing and future requirements.
Gigabit Ethernet applications
Video surveillance and image analysis
Gigabit Ethernet plays an important role in supporting surveillance and image analysis in industrial environments. Video streaming and inspection often require high resolution and large bandwidth to fulfil quality requirements. Gigabit Ethernet can handle multiple cameras at the same time without affecting network performance, which is crucial for applications such as quality control and production monitoring.
One example of an application is camera surveillance on wind turbines, where technicians can remotely carry out inspections to detect any problems and thus minimise the need for physical inspections, saving time and money.
Large industrial networks and M2M communications
As more and more devices are connected to industrial networks - such as sensors and machine-to-machine (M2M) communication systems - more network capacity is needed. Gigabit Ethernet is ideal for handling the growing volume of data, making it possible to connect dozens of sensors to centralised workstations and report their status in real time.
Interconnection of facilities
In industrial environments where networks span multiple buildings or facilities, Gigabit Ethernet can be used to achieve reliable and fast connectivity. For example, data from sensors and surveillance cameras on a remote oil rig can continuously report status to central systems, enabling enterprise-wide real-time monitoring.
Gigabit Ethernet offers not only higher bandwidth but also reduced latency and high resilience to interference, which is critical for businesses that require stable and fast connections.
Build a secure industrial network
Zoning and separation between IT and OT
To secure the network infrastructure, it is important to divide the network into separate zones. For example, each zone may contain specific devices or functions, such as pumping stations, filtration and sedimentation. Separating OT (Operational Technology) and IT (Information Systems) using a security zone - often called Demilitarised Zone (DMZ) - prevents direct access and protects business-critical assets.
Protected connections and firewalls
Ducts (protected connections) are used to control traffic between zones. Firewalls are installed between these zones to prevent unauthorised access and protect against external threats. The firewalls not only prevent threats but also allow specific traffic to be filtered based on set rules, ensuring that only necessary communications are allowed.
Logging and monitoring
Logging and monitoring network events is crucial to detect anomalies and prevent security incidents. By implementing tools for Syslog and log management, businesses can analyse all traffic and quickly identify potential threats. Real-time monitoring of traffic in conduits and zones helps detect anomalies that could indicate an attack.
Security standards for industrial networks
ISA/IEC 62443 standard is a globally recognised standard for safety in industrial automation systems. It includes guidelines for design, risk management and continuous improvement of safety measures, which are essential to protect both zones and conduits.
Our products and solutions
At ACTE, we offer industrial Ethernet switches that combine high performance with ruggedisation for extreme environments. Our solutions are suitable for applications in renewable energy, substations, oil and gas, and transport. We have both GigE and Fast Ethernet that can be customised for different protocols and network architectures, giving you the flexibility to meet the challenges of the future.
