United States
Q
What are Cisco IE Switch Modules & Cards and how do they enhance industrial networks?
A
Cisco IE Switch Modules & Cards are modular interface and expansion components for Industrial Ethernet switches that provide flexible port configurations, increased bandwidth and enhanced resilience in harsh environments.
Q
Which Cisco IE switch series support modular expansion cards?
A
Modular expansion cards are supported on Cisco IE 2000, IE 3000, IE 4000 and IE 5000 series switches, enabling customized port densities and media types per application.
Q
How do I choose the right Cisco IE module for my industrial application?
A
Select a module based on required port count, speed (10/100/1G/10G), media type (RJ-45, SFP, fiber), PoE requirements, environmental rating and protocol support.
Q
What port speeds and media types are available on Cisco IE modules?
A
Cisco IE modules support 10/100/1000 Mbps RJ-45, SFP 1G fiber, SFP+ 10G fiber and multimode or single-mode optics to suit diverse network topologies.
Q
Are Cisco IE switch modules hot-swappable?
A
Yes, most Cisco IE modular switches allow hot-swapping of interface cards without powering down, minimizing maintenance windows and downtime.
Q
Can I mix different module types in a single Cisco IE switch?
A
Yes, as long as the switch chassis supports the module form factor and power budget, you can populate SFP, RJ-45 and PoE modules in the same unit.
Q
Do Cisco IE modules support Power over Ethernet (PoE/PoE+)?
A
Certain Cisco IE modules deliver PoE/PoE+ up to 30 W per port, ideal for powering IP cameras, wireless access points and industrial IoT devices.
Q
What industrial certifications do Cisco IE switch modules have?
A
Cisco IE modules carry IEC 61850-3, IEEE 1613, Class I Division 2, ATEX and EN 50155 certifications, ensuring compliance with rigorous industrial standards.
Q
How do I install or replace a Cisco IE switch module?
A
Align the module with the chassis slot, insert until it clicks, secure the captive screws and follow the CLI or GUI prompts to enable the new interfaces.
Q
How do I update firmware on Cisco IE modules & cards?
A
Use the Cisco IOS CLI to upload the firmware image via TFTP/SFTP, invoke the 'install' command, and reload the switch to activate the update.
Q
What security features are available on Cisco IE modules?
A
Cisco IE modules support MACsec encryption, 802.1X port-based access control, ACLs, Secure Boot, SNMPv3 and Cisco Trust Anchor for enhanced network security.
Q
How do I troubleshoot Cisco IE switch module connectivity issues?
A
Verify link LEDs, run 'show interfaces' for error counters, check SFP compatibility, swap test cables and use built-in diagnostics to isolate faults.
Q
Do Cisco IE modules support industrial protocols like PROFINET or EtherNet/IP?
A
Yes, Cisco IE modules are certified for PROFINET, EtherNet/IP and Modbus TCP, ensuring seamless integration with automation controllers and field devices.
Q
What is the warranty and support for Cisco IE switch modules?
A
Cisco IE modules include a five-year limited hardware warranty plus optional SMARTnet services for 24/7 technical support, accelerated hardware replacement and software updates.
Q
How do I verify module compatibility and ordering information?
A
Consult the Cisco Compatibility Matrix and Product Bulletins, reference module part numbers (beginning with 'IE-MOD'), or use Cisco’s online ordering tools.
Q
Can Cisco IE modules operate in extreme temperature environments?
A
Yes, Cisco IE modules are rated for industrial temperature ranges from –40 °C to +75 °C, maintaining performance in extreme heat, cold and vibration conditions.
