A family of switches developed by Rockwell Automation in collaboration with Cisco supports integration and promotes collaboration between operational technology (OT) and information technology (IT) professionals.
Stratix 5200, a family of fully managed Ethernet switches, offers increased functionality, is easy to set up and configure and offers enhanced security features. These switches can be fully integrated with Rockwell Automation’s Studio 5000 Automation Engineering & Design Environment software.
Machine builders will appreciate that the various hardware configurations and features in this line of switches provide options and flexibility, including:
- Expansion of higher port speed options with all gig SKUs
- Redundant and resilient architecture options that support fully managed and high-performance switch tiers
- Simplified portfolio and switch selection that is streamlined for fully managed and high performance Stratix 5200 switches offer Layer 2 access switching, base or full firmware, and 6, 10, or 20 port options.
Rockwell Automation noted that a new web-based graphical user interface (GUI) opens the range of applications and possibilities to improve productivity.
The line of managed switches is based on the Cisco IOS XE platform that includes a new graphical web user interface. This translates to improved performance, enhanced troubleshooting, fundamental disaster recovery features and customizable dashboards.
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Rockwell Automation noted that Stratix 5200 switches align with Cisco Cyber Vision Sensor options and “tie into Cisco TrustSec software for a defined segmentation approach.”
Another feature that machine builders bank on when selecting switches is protection against counterfeit hardware and software risks and additional encryption options. The Stratix 5200 switch complies with international standards, such as IEC 62443-4-2 for cybersecurity.
Rockwell Automation’s press release noted that the Stratix 5200 switches were purposely designed so professionals could leverage tools and technology that are familiar to them.
Reproduced below is Rockwell Automation’s list of features and benefits:
- Features all gigabit port options
- Supports high speed redundant and resilient architecture options
- Includes various copper and fiber choices to support a diverse set of applications
- Supports layer 2 access switching
- Supports both IT and OT configuration and management tools allowing users to leverage the expertise of both teams
- Includes default configurations for industrial applications providing easy setup and optimized performance
- Incorporates robust set of switching and security features to meet a broad spectrum of application needs
- Includes Studio 5000 Add-on Profiles (AOPs) which enable premier integration into the Rockwell Automation Integrated Architecture system
- Features predefined named Logix tags for monitoring and port control
- Supports compatibility with FactoryTalk View faceplates helping enable status monitoring and alarming
- Features Embedded Cisco technology, including the IOS-XE operating system, helping enable integration with the enterprise network
