Description

GigaBlox Rugged is a layer 2 unmanaged and managed ethernet switch that fits four 10/100/1000Mbps copper ethernet ports in an ultra-compact 50mm x 50mm form factor. GigaBlox Rugged is designed to be a more rugged and more capable upgrade to our GigaBlox product and is designed for space, weight and price-sensitive (SWaP) industrial, mobile and military applications.

GigaBlox Rugged has an input voltage range from 10V to 60V with transient, overvoltage and reverse polarity protection onboard, meaning it can be dropped directly into a system and powered from unregulated system voltage. This wide input voltage range is particularly advantageous in motor control systems where additional voltage headroom is required due to motor voltage transients. The -40°C to +85°C ambient operation range is achieved by using components whose operation is rated for -40°C to +105°C (or better).

Tolerance to vibration is achieved using Molex Pico-Clasp locking connectors, and the included cable sets consists of 4 x Pico-Clasp to RJ45 shielded cables (300mm) and 1 x Pico-Clasp Power cable. All parts on GigaBlox Rugged are sourced from USA distributors, and the board is manufactured in the USA for supply chain traceability

GigaBlox Rugged does not require any configuration and works “out-the-box” as an unmanaged layer 2 switch. More advanced management features are also possible thanks to the powerful embedded VSC7512 ethernet switch IC from Microsemi. Such features can be enabled by customizing the boot image using reference software from Microchip.

GigaBlox Rugged initial performance tests are here.

Block Diagram

Specifications