Patton (News - Alert) has begun to take orders for the Model 2172R 50-Mbps Ruggedized Ethernet Extender for industrial Ethernet applications.

 

Leveraging the previously-installed twisted-pair infrastructure for long-reach Ethernet connections, the new release eliminates the expense and disruption of installing fiber or CAT5e cable when linking Ethernet-based PLCs and other shop-floor equipment to the office LAN.

 

Designed for industrial-automation and device-networking environments, Patton’s 2172R can achieve a maximum full-duplex line rate of 50 Mbps extending the reach of Ethernet segments up to 3,000 feet or more over existing TTL, RS-232 or RS-422/485 serial circuits. The 2172R is enclosed in a ruggedized metal case that is wall and DIN-rail mountable. The new release has extended operating temperatures ranging from -10 to +70°C. An optional conformal coating offers additional protection from condensation for high-humidity installations.

 

Product Manger, Johnnie Grant, explained that today’s shop-floor equipment is all Ethernet. However, re-cabling is often the show stopper for the factory-automation, and sometimes cost more than the communications equipment. He said that Patton technology can preserve capital investment by extending the useful life of existing circuits. Their solution lets customers keep using what they already have.

 

Grant further explained that as they created the Ethernet Extender market in the 1990’s Patton innovation has been driving Ethernet reach and rate ever farther and faster. Today, with their industrial Ethernet solutions, Patton continues pushing Ethernet technology into an ever-expanding range of applications.

 

Patton’s Model 2172R 50-Mbps Ruggedized Ethernet Extender features six user-selectable symmetrical and asymmetrical line rates that allow each connection to be tuned for optimum reach, rate, and noise resistance. The 50 Mbps symmetrical rate extends Ethernet connection up to 800 feet (245 meters) for high-bandwidth applications. According to Patton, for noisy environments, the 10 Mbps symmetrical rate extends Ethernet connection up to 4,000 feet (1,200 meters).

 

The Extender builds on the proven reliability of Patton’s CopperLink network extension technology, and complements Patton’s industrial-networking solutions including EtherBITS device servers and EnviroNET hardened networking products.