New low-power switches ease industrial network migration to Ethernet

Microsemi has unveiled its new Ocelot product family, a low-power, feature-rich Ethernet switch series optimized for communications networking in the industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) market. Designed for the specific needs of industrial Ethernet switch applications, such as factory automation, process control, smart grid/smart energy and physical security, Microsemi’s new devices simplify IIoT network migration to an Ethernet backbone with flexible interfaces, TCAM based classifications, 1588 timing and ring protection in a small package. “Ethernet’s use in industrial communications is increasingly widespread as the industry looks to modernize their networks onto this ubiquitous standard,” said Larry O’Connell, director of product marketing, Microsemi. “As a leading integrated circuit, systems and software provider with a power-optimized and flexible Ethernet networking portfolio, we are expanding our offering to support a wide range of industrial Ethernet applications. The addition of our new Ocelot devices expands our portfolio and provides IIoT customers with a cost-effective solution that does not compromise on features, unlike competitive offerings.” The family includes these devices: VSC7511, a four-port, layer 2 gigabit Ethernet switch with four fully integrated copper PHYs VSC7512, a 10-port, layer 2 gigabit Ethernet switch with four fully integrated copper PHYs VSC7513, an eight-port, layer 2/3 gigabit Ethernet switch VCS7514, a 10-port layer 2/3 gigabit Ethernet switch In addition to leveraging Microsemi’s technology to offer low-power, small package sizes, 1588 timing and ring protection, the Ocelot switches feature optimized port configurations, unmanaged and managed options, and IStaX software optimized for the industrial market, says the company.