
Recently, I came across an interesting application, and I realized an indirect way of using a feature common to all of Transition Networks managed Industrial Ethernet switches. I am referring to the Fault Alarm Output.
The Fault Alarm Output
All of Transition Networks’ managed industrial Ethernet switches incorporate a Fault Relay Alarm Output. This provides a hardwired mechanism for warning when power or one/any of the Ethernet ports loses its link status. In a commercial or office-grade piece of equipment this function is typically not needed: a downed network connection will pretty quickly be communicated to the IT personnel by humans; but in an industrial environment this may not occur. The installation could be remote, say at a well-head, or pump house. If the network fails an operation may be interrupted or cease, resulting in equipment damage, underutilized resources, or loss of revenue. A signal from the equipment could be tied to a local alarm system, or even a device that could communicate the alarm remotely. This is the intended use of the Fault Alarm Output.
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