Allen-Bradley Stratix 5700 managed industrial ethernet switch with NAT feature

The Allen-Bradley Stratix 5700 managed industrial ethernet switch now includes an optional integrated network address translation (NAT) feature. The switches are currently available with six, 10 and 20 fixed-port configurations.

The hardware-based NAT feature allows for high performance and simplified integration of IP-address mapping from a set of local, machine-level IP addresses to the end user’s broader plant-process network.

The feature is said to greatly benefit manufacturers that are integrating identical machines into a production line, especially when multiple equipment builders are being integrated into a common production line. The NAT feature allows OEMs to deliver their standard machines to customers without having to program unique IP addresses into them. The end user can then use the NAT feature to more simply integrate the machines into the larger network. Because the machines are identical to their standards, they are easier to maintain.

The switch also allows users to have the flexibility to segment or isolate network traffic by determining which devices are exposed to the larger network. The product includes features, such as IEEE-1588 time synchronisation, QoS (prioritisation) and Resilient Ethernet Protocol (REP). Each Stratix 5700 switch includes: dual-power inputs, input and output alarms, console port, fibre-ready SFP slots, DIN rail mount, and operating temperature range of - 40 to 60°C. Model options include: NAT, two gig ports, SD flash card, conformal coating, and two different software configurations for a total of 20 different models to best match machine and end-user applications.