B&R Automation adds machine switch for OPC UA over TSN communication

B&R Automation has added a real-time Ethernet switch to its portfolio, which can be used to set up networks using the vendor-agnostic communication solution OPC UA over TSN.

The TSN machine switch allows cycle times under 50 µs. It offers four real-time capable TSN ports and one standard Ethernet port – to connect a display, for example. The switch also opens up the possibility of star, tree or ring topologies in addition to daisy-chaining.

Multiple switches can be cascaded in order to reach remote cabinets or implement large, complex real-time networks. Non-TSN nodes can also be incorporated in the network via the switch. Implementing modular machine concepts is now faster and easier than ever.

The switch is completely integrated in B&R’s Automation Studio engineering environment. Configuration occurs automatically. The device supports a centralized approach to hardware and software management. Application development and machine-specific configurations can be performed either offline or online. The TSN switch can also be used as a conventional unmanaged switch for non-real-time networks. No special configuration is required.

Since the TSN machine switch is designed in the X20 form factor, it takes up minimal space in the control cabinet, mounted right alongside the X20 control and I/O system.

The switch can be mounted in two different positions, depending on the cable outlet. This allows it to be installed in tight spaces.