GE IS420ESWBH2A Ethernet Switch Module

1. Product Overview

The GE IS420ESWBH2A is an industrial-grade managed Ethernet switch developed for the GE Mark VIe control system. It provides reliable, high-speed networking for controllers, I/O modules, and operator stations within turbine and process control environments. Engineered for durability, redundancy, and real-time communication, the IS420ESWBH2A ensures robust data exchange in mission-critical industrial networks.

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2. Technical Specifications

Parameter	Description
Manufacturer	GE (General Electric)
Model	IS420ESWBH2A
Type	Managed Ethernet Switch Module
Number of Ports	8 × 10/100Base-TX (RJ45) + 2 × 100Base-FX (Fiber, Multimode)
Switching Capacity	3.2 Gbps
MAC Address Table	8,000 entries
Power Supply	24 V DC nominal
Power Consumption	Approximately 10 W
Network Standards	IEEE 802.3, 802.3u, 802.3x
Protocols Supported	RSTP, SNMP, IGMP Snooping, VLAN, QoS
Redundancy Support	Dual Ethernet ring (IONet redundancy)
Operating Temperature Range	–40°C to +70°C
Mounting Type	DIN-rail / Panel mounting
Diagnostics	LED indicators for port link, activity, and power status
Compatibility	GE Mark VIe and EX2100e control systems

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3. Structure and Design

The IS420ESWBH2A features a compact, rugged metal housing designed for harsh industrial environments. It includes eight RJ45 ports for copper Ethernet connections and two fiber ports for long-distance communication or network redundancy. LED indicators on the front panel display port activity, link status, and power conditions for quick diagnostics.

The module is convection-cooled (no fan required) and built to operate reliably under high vibration, humidity, and temperature variations. Its DIN-rail mounting enables fast installation in control cabinets and turbine enclosures.

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4. Key Features

• 10-port managed Ethernet switch (8 copper + 2 fiber ports)

• Supports full-duplex and auto-negotiation on all ports

• VLAN segmentation and Quality of Service (QoS) for optimized data flow

• Redundant ring topology with automatic recovery (RSTP/IONet)

• SNMP support for remote monitoring and network management

• Fanless, industrial-grade design for continuous operation

• Built-in diagnostic LEDs for quick status assessment

• Seamless integration with GE Mark VIe control networks

  
  

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5. Application Fields

The GE IS420ESWBH2A is used in a wide range of industrial and energy control systems, including:

• Gas and steam turbine control systems

• Power generation and substation automation

• Oil and gas production and refining facilities

• Industrial process control networks

• Manufacturing and material handling systems

• Renewable energy and smart grid infrastructures

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6. Installation and Maintenance

• Mount securely on a DIN rail or panel backplate in a well-ventilated cabinet.

• Connect Ethernet cables to the RJ45 and fiber ports according to system topology.

• Ensure redundant network configuration (dual-ring setup) for critical systems.

• Connect a 24 V DC power source with proper polarity and grounding.

• Check front-panel LEDs for link and power indicators during startup.

• Use GE’s ToolboxST or compatible network management software for configuration and monitoring.

• Perform routine inspection of cables, connectors, and ventilation openings to ensure stable operation.

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7. Advantages in Industrial Networking

The GE IS420ESWBH2A enhances network resilience and performance through its redundant Ethernet architecture, fast recovery times, and industrial-grade reliability. Designed for continuous operation in harsh conditions, it ensures stable communication between control system components, minimizing downtime and maximizing efficiency. Its managed features provide visibility, control, and scalability essential for modern automation networks.