Comprehensive Guide to Hirschmann Network Products

Introduction

Hirschmann, a renowned brand under Belden, stands at the forefront of industrial data communication and networking solutions. With a rich history of innovation and reliability, Hirschmann specializes in providing robust automation systems and networking products designed to perform in the most demanding environments. Their comprehensive suite includes industrial Ethernet and connectors, fiber optic components, and mobile machine control systems, all tailored to meet diverse industrial requirements.

Hirschmann’s extensive catalog features industrial Ethernet switches, known for their energy efficiency and durability, branded as GreenChoice™ products. These switches are engineered to reduce waste and energy consumption while maintaining high performance under extreme conditions. Additionally, Hirschmann offers a wide range of electrical control systems for precise positioning, load control, and protection in challenging environments.

Serving industries such as automotive manufacturing, oil and gas, transportation, and telecommunications, Hirschmann’s solutions are integral to maintaining operational efficiency and safety. By addressing the unique needs of these sectors, Hirschmann ensures that their products not only meet but exceed industry standards, providing reliable and innovative solutions for critical industrial applications.

Product Categories

Cybersecurity

In today’s digital landscape, cybersecurity is a critical concern, especially within industrial environments where network breaches can lead to severe operational disruptions, safety hazards, and significant financial losses. Hirschmann, a leading brand under Belden, offers a robust suite of cybersecurity solutions designed to safeguard critical infrastructure from both internal and external threats, ensuring the safety and reliability of network operations.

Importance of Cybersecurity in Industrial Environments

Industrial settings are particularly vulnerable to cyber threats due to the potential impact on critical infrastructure. A successful cyber attack can halt production, compromise safety systems, and result in substantial financial damage. Therefore, implementing strong cybersecurity measures is essential to maintain the integrity and availability of critical systems.

How Hirschmann’s Products Address Cybersecurity Needs Hirschmann’s cybersecurity solutions are tailored to meet the unique challenges of industrial networks. Key products include:

- Rail Data Diode: This unidirectional network appliance ensures one-way data traffic, preventing unauthorized access while allowing secure data transfer out of the protected network. It is designed to secure mission-critical Ethernet networks through guaranteed one-way data traffic, providing a highly controlled and deterministic manner of data transfer. The Rail Data Diode is protected by a metal housing, conformal coating, and vibration-proof M12 ports, ensuring durability in harsh environments.

- Industrial Firewalls: Hirschmann’s industrial firewalls offer robust defense mechanisms against both internal and external threats. These firewalls support best practices such as Defense in Depth and network segmentation, which are crucial for preventing the spread of cyber threats by isolating different parts of the network. This ensures that a breach in one area does not compromise the entire system. Hirschmann’s firewalls are designed to operate in harsh industrial conditions, providing reliable protection for critical infrastructure.

Industrial Network Switches

Industrial network switches are the backbone of any industrial communication system, providing the robust, reliable, and high-performance connectivity solutions essential for harsh industrial conditions. Hirschmann, a leading brand under Belden, offers a comprehensive range of managed and unmanaged switches designed to support various network topologies and ensure seamless data transmission across your network.

Managed vs. Unmanaged Switches

Managed Switches: These switches offer advanced features such as VLANs, Quality of Service (QoS), and network monitoring, making them ideal for complex networks that require high levels of control and flexibility. Managed switches are suitable for environments where network performance and security are critical, such as large-scale industrial automation systems, data centers, and environments requiring detailed network management and monitoring.

Unmanaged Switches: Providing basic connectivity with plug-and-play simplicity, unmanaged switches are suitable for smaller networks or less critical applications where ease of use and cost-effectiveness are priorities. These switches do not offer the advanced features found in managed switches but are robust and reliable for straightforward network setups. They are typically used in simple, small-scale networks, temporary setups, or applications where advanced network management is not necessary.

Hirschmann Managed Switches

Hirschmann’s managed Ethernet switches are recognized for their exceptional performance and reliability in demanding industrial environments. The extensive portfolio includes both Layer 2 and Layer 3 switches, ensuring suitable solutions for various network requirements. These ruggedized switches are designed to withstand extreme conditions, providing robust connectivity and advanced network management features essential for complex automation systems.

- Managed DIN Rail & Compact Switch Families: These switches are engineered for reliable performance in harsh industrial environments, offering Layer 2 and Layer 3 options or built-in Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) technology. They support high availability and network monitoring, making them ideal for automotive manufacturing and industrial automation. 

- Managed Rack-Mount Switches: Designed for industrial applications, these switches can handle extreme conditions such as high temperature, shock, vibration, or EMC. They are scalable, allowing for easy expansion as network demands grow, and are suitable for data centers and smart city infrastructure.

- Managed OCTOPUS Ethernet IP67/IP65 Switches: These switches provide IP65/67 waterproof and dust-tight protection, making them suitable for rail, ship, and road vehicle applications. They support full Gigabit Ethernet and Power over Ethernet (PoE), ensuring reliable data transmission in harsh conditions.

- IT MAMMUTHUS Enterprise Managed Switches: These high-performance enterprise Ethernet switches offer a reliable, secure, and powerful solution for IT/OT convergence applications across multiple industries. They improve data flow and operational efficiency, making them ideal for large-scale industrial facilities.

Hirschmann Unmanaged Switches

In many industrial settings, simplicity and reliability are key. Hirschmann’s unmanaged Ethernet switches offer straightforward, plug-and-play connectivity for devices, even in harsh environments. The portfolio includes Fast and Gigabit Ethernet switches, available in various robust and compact designs, providing flexible and cost-effective solutions for diverse network needs.

- Hirschmann SPIDER III Unmanaged Switches: These switches simplify networks by providing basic Ethernet switch functions at an advantageous price point. They are ideal for small manufacturing facilities and basic network setups.

- Unmanaged Rack-Mount Switches: These rugged solutions are designed for hardened industrial applications, guaranteeing high network availability and environmental adaptability. They are suitable for telecommunications and remote data centers.

- Hirschmann Unmanaged OCTOPUS Ethernet IP67/IP65 Switches: These switches can be used to set up cost-effective connections to Ethernet terminal devices under demanding conditions. PoE versions can power terminal devices operating in challenging environments, making them beneficial for transportation and public safety industries.

Industrial Wireless Communication

Wireless communication is essential for modern industrial applications, offering flexibility and mobility. Hirschmann’s industrial wireless communication products deliver secure, high-speed wireless connectivity, enabling efficient data exchange and remote monitoring in challenging environments.

Advancements in Wireless Technology: Wireless technology has evolved to support higher speeds, greater reliability, and enhanced security, making it suitable for modern industrial applications. Hirschmann’s wireless products leverage these advancements to provide robust and secure wireless communication solutions.

How Hirschmann’s Products Support Modern Applications:

- Wireless LAN: Offers high security and maximum availability, ensuring reliable connectivity for critical industrial applications.

- Dragonfly Wi-Fi 6 Enterprise Wireless Access Point: Supports high data rates and efficient airtime allocation, making it ideal for data-intensive applications like video surveillance and streaming.

Software

Effective network management and security require powerful software solutions. Hirschmann’s software offerings include network access control, secure defined perimeter suites, and other tools that provide comprehensive visibility, control, and protection for your industrial networks.

 Role of Software in Network Management and Security: Software solutions are essential for managing and securing industrial networks. They provide visibility, control, and automation, enabling efficient network operation and protection against cyber threats.

How Hirschmann’s Solutions Integrate with Hardware Products:

- Secure Defined Perimeter Suite: Ensures secure access to resources, implementing Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) to minimize threat vectors.

- Network Access Control (NAC) Software: Provides transparency, secure authentication, and granular access control, integrating seamlessly with Hirschmann’s hardware to enhance network security and management.