RuggedCom is the first company to introduce IEC 61850-compliant Ethernet switches and is also the first to qualify as an IEEE 1613 Class 2 device capable of error-free performance under electromagnetic interference (EMI) stress.
Many existing substations are not designed to have environmentally controlled spaces and as a result, the equipment used in these environments should be able to withstand wide temperature variations. This is a huge challenge, as internal fans are not allowed in industrial grade equipment because they lower the overall reliability of the device. In addition, these devices must also deal with high levels of humidity and vibration not commonly found in office environments.
"RuggedCom's Ethernet product line, RuggedSwitch, consists of fiberoptic-based switches that fully comply with IEC 61850 EMI and environmental requirements," says
Some unique features of the RuggedCom product line include widest specifications for harsh environments as well as dual redundant and integrated power supplies for higher reliability, availability, and uptime. It offers fastest network fault recovery with enhanced Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol (eRSTP) which requires less than 5 ms recovery for fault tolerant and mission-critical systems.
The company also provides routers, serial servers, and media converters for the substation automation industry.
"Many utilities are exploring options to implement data loss- and error-free communication technologies so that they can have better control of the information they receive from many devices within substations," notes Krishnan. "RuggedCom’s Ethernet switches have not only excelled in surviving the harsh environments but have also demonstrated their performance in delivering the information without any data loss."
In recognition of its performance in harsh environments and its technological potential in offering ‘zero data loss’ communication, RuggedCom, Inc. is considered a deserving recipient of the
Frost & Sullivan has selected RuggedCom, Inc. for its 2006 Excellence in Technology Award in the field of Ethernet switches for substation automation. The company has shown technological dominance by designing and manufacturing ruggedized communication equipment for harsh electrical and climatic environments. Frost & Sullivan Industry Analyst Viswanathan Krishnan. "These switches incorporate a technology called zero packet loss (ZPL) technology, which ensures minimal or no data loss, errors, or delays when exposed to EMI stress." Frost & Sullivan 2006 Excellence in Technology Award. Frost & Sullivan presents this award to a company that has pioneered the development and introduction of an innovative technology into the market; a technology that has either affected or has the potential to impact several market sectors. The award recognizes a company’s successful technology development that is expected to bring significant contributions to the industry in terms of adoption, change, and competitive posture. It also recognizes the company’s overall technical excellence and its commitment toward technology innovation.
