SIXNET Managed Switch Tour

The Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol (RSTP) prevents unnecessary down-time by allowing managed switches to be connected in various network topologies that allow for redundant communication paths. The SIXNET managed switch supports the advanced Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol which allows for quick determination of network problems and fast switch-over to backup paths. The typical recovery time is less than 50 mS per "hop" or less than 500 mS for a typical ring network consisting of 10 managed switches. Also, RSTP is fully compatible with the original and slower Spanning Tree Protocol (STP). Get details on RSTP.

The most common of the redundant network topologies is the simple ring where the switches are connected in a loop configuration. In this scheme, each switch will determine the best primary and backup paths and block the backup path until when and if the primary path fails.

Advanced Network Redundancy for DCS
SIXNET DCS Controllers & I/O Gateways with dual Ethernet ports plus SIXNET Managed Switches with Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol equal superior relibility through advanced redundancy. Many different redundancy architectures are possible using SIXNET's truly open industrial components. The example below shows dual redundant rings, redundant DCS controllers and distributed I/O stations, all working together to ensure that your system stays running.