Kontron ESC1600/ESC2404 10G/1G ethernet switch modules

For the accelerated development of custom-made, high-availability switches, Kontron has introduced its 10G/1G Ethernet Switch Core Modules, providing all essential interfaces on a standardised footprint.

The ESC1600/ESC2404 Modules are the first in a series of application-ready ethernet switching building blocks. The physical footprint is standardised, the number of interfaces and their layout is scalable and everything is pre-integrated and application-ready, including the management system for the configuration of the switch.

The robust 10G/1G high-speed modules are suitable for deployment in avionic and military switches with individual mechanical system designs and physical network interfaces. They are a suitable springboard for customised systems; on the basis of the core modules, high-quality 1/10Gb managed ethernet switching systems with long-term availability can be realised quickly and efficiently.

The footprint of the modules is based on the COM Express compact form factor, using comprehensive design rules for module-based rugged systems. This ensures a high standard of re-use and a high degree of design quality and investment security.

The management interface of the modules, which are designed for the temperature range of -40 to 85°C, is software compliant to the Kontron CompactPCI, AdvancedTCA and MicroTCA Managed Switches, so users can profit from switching building blocks in scalable series product quality.

Due to SNMP support, configuration and administration of the switches is a quick and efficient matter. Either via command line or web interface, the switch can be configured for specific network switching and routing requirements. Physical management access can either take place via the serial interface or via the network.

The robustly designed modules are shock- and vibration-proof and shielded against electromagnetic interference fields. They offer a range of functions including L2 and L3 management for IPv4 and IPv6 like IP forwarding, L2 and L3 multicast, quality of service (QoS) and VLANs. Additional macro capabilities for frequent administration and configuration also alleviate system management. To facilitate software updates and configurations, the ESC provides a USB interface and an I²C bus for various IOs, which can also reflect network errors and status information.