Advantech EKI-2525I – 5-Port Unmanaged Industrial Ethernet Switch

Key Specifications & Features

1. Unmanaged & Simple:

   • True Plug-and-Play: No configuration, IP addresses, or software required. Connects devices and forwards Ethernet frames based on MAC addresses.

   • Auto-Negotiation & Auto-MDI/MDIX: All ports automatically detect speed (10/100 Mbps) and cable type (straight-through or crossover), simplifying installation.

2. Industrial Ruggedness:

   • Operating Temperature: -40°C to 75°C — a wide range suitable for most industrial environments.

   • Power Input: 12 to 48 VDC wide-range input, with redundant power inputs (2 terminals). This is a key industrial feature for reliability.

   • Protection: 6.3KV Ethernet surge protection, high immunity to EMI/EMS.

   • Mounting: DIN-rail or panel mounting.

   • Housing: Sturdy metal casing.

3. Port Configuration & Performance:

   • 5 x 10/100BASE-TX RJ45 ports.

   • Fast Ethernet (100 Mbps): Sufficient for most industrial control traffic (PLC comms, I/O data, HMI).

   • Store-and-Forward switching architecture with a 1K MAC address table.

4. LED Indicators: Simple status LEDs for Power, Link/Activity, and Speed per port.

Typical Use Cases (Where It Fits Perfectly)

This switch is designed for simple, reliable network expansion at the edge:

1. Machine-Level Networking: Adding Ethernet connectivity to a machine with multiple devices (e.g., a PLC, an HMI, a variable frequency drive, and a sensor block) where only one network drop is available.

2. Control Cabinet Consolidation: Replacing multiple direct cables with a structured network inside a cabinet.

3. Harsh Environment Connectivity: Deploying in locations like factory floors, outdoor kiosks, or transportation systems where a commercial switch would fail.

4. Cost-Sensitive Projects: Providing industrial-grade reliability without the cost and complexity of a managed switch.

5. Temporary or Retrofit Installations: Quickly adding network capacity to existing systems.

Comparison with Managed Switches & Other Brands

Advantages

• Extremely Simple & Reliable: No software to fail. "Set it and forget it."

• Low Cost: One of the most affordable entry points into bona fide industrial switching.

• Excellent Industrial Specs: The wide temperature range and surge protection are standout features for the price.

• Small Footprint: Compact design fits in tight spaces.

• Wide Voltage Input (12-48VDC): Offers great flexibility in power sourcing.

  
  

  The EKI-2525I is a rugged, industrial-grade, unmanaged Ethernet switch by Advantech, designed for reliable and simple network connectivity in harsh or industrial environments. It’s part of the EKI-2000 series of compact switches, ideal for small-to-medium sized industrial networks, automation systems, SCADA setups, or machine-level networking where managed functionality isn’t needed