Overview
The GE IS420ESWBH3AE, also cataloged as the IS420ESWB 16-port Ethernet IONet switch, provides physical Ethernet switching for controller, I/O pack, monitoring, and safety-system data traffic within GE Mark VIe and Mark VIeS platforms. It uses 10/100BASE-TX copper ports and 100 Mbps FX uplink interfaces.
Hardware Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | IS420ESWBH3AE |
| Base Model | IS420ESWB |
| Brand | General Electric (GE) |
| Product Series | Mark VIe / Mark VIeS |
| Product Type | 16-port 10/100 Base Ethernet IONet Switch |
| Origin | USA |
| Operating System | QNX Neutrino |
| Software Compatibility | ControlST V04.03.18C or later |
| Memory | 256 MB DDR SDRAM |
| Ethernet Ports | 16 total; 10/100BASE-TX copper and 100 Mbps FX uplink ports |
| Network Standards | IEEE 802.3, IEEE 802.3u, IEEE 802.x compatibility |
| Power Input | +18 VDC to +32 VDC |
| Power Configuration | Redundant power supply inputs |
| MAC Address Table | 4K MAC addresses |
| Buffer Memory | Minimum 256 KB |
| Diagnostic Indicators | Multi-color LEDs for power, link, activity, duplex, and speed |
| Mounting | DIN rail |
| Dimensions | 138 mm x 86 mm x 56 mm |
| Weight | Approx. 0.9 kg |
| Operating Humidity | 5% to 95% relative humidity, non-condensing |
| MTBF | More than 4 million hours |
| Associated Manual | GEH-6855 |
Industrial Ethernet and IONet Characteristics
The IS420ESWBH3AE uses Ethernet switching to transfer IONet traffic between connected Mark VIe system components. The 16-port configuration supports both copper Ethernet connections and 100 Mbps FX uplink connections, while auto-negotiation manages compatible link parameters.
The 4K MAC address table allows the switch to maintain learned Ethernet endpoint information. In addition, the minimum 256 KB packet buffer supports temporary traffic queuing during network activity.
For industrial installation, the redundant DC inputs provide two available power connections. Therefore, wiring should maintain correct polarity and separation between the redundant supply paths. The front-panel diagnostic LEDs provide local indication of power state, link status, activity, duplex condition, and port speed.
As a GE industrial control component, the unit operates under QNX Neutrino and supports ControlST V04.03.18C or later according to the supplied specifications. Firmware and software compatibility should therefore be verified against the installed Mark VIe or Mark VIeS system revision before replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What Ethernet interfaces are provided by the IS420ESWBH3AE?
A: The supplied specification identifies 16 Ethernet ports, including 10/100BASE-TX copper interfaces and 100 Mbps FX uplink interfaces with auto-negotiation.
Q: What DC input range does the switch accept?
A: The specified input range is +18 VDC to +32 VDC. The unit also provides redundant power supply inputs.
Q: Is the operating temperature specified for this model?
A: The supplied data does not state an operating temperature range. The applicable GE installation documentation should be checked before defining the environmental limit.
Field Installation Guidelines
- Mount the IS420ESWBH3AE securely on the specified DIN rail and verify mechanical engagement before connecting cables.
- Confirm that the available DC supply remains within the specified +18 VDC to +32 VDC input range.
- Observe DC polarity during power wiring and verify both redundant supply connections independently.
- Route Ethernet communication cables separately from high-voltage, high-current, and high-noise power conductors where practical.
- Maintain appropriate cable bend radius and avoid excessive mechanical loading at Ethernet connectors.
- Verify link and activity LEDs after commissioning to confirm physical-layer communication.
- Confirm duplex and speed indications against the expected network configuration.
- Use shield termination and grounding practices consistent with the installed GE control-system cabinet and site EMC requirements.
- Verify ControlST and system firmware compatibility before replacing an installed ESWB unit.
- Do not assign an operating-temperature limit from this datasheet because the supplied technical data does not specify one.
