SCALANCE XM408-8C – Modular Layer 3 Switch for Scalable Industrial Networks
Product Introduction
The 6GK5408-8GR00-2AM2 belongs to the SCALANCE XM-400 product family, a series of modular and fully managed industrial Ethernet switches from Siemens. This particular model, the XM408-8C, combines high port density with advanced Layer 3 routing functionality. It serves as a core switch for factory automation, process control, and critical infrastructure networks.
Furthermore, this switch supports extensive Layer 2 and Layer 3 features, including VLANs, RSTP, MRP, OSPF, and VRRP. These capabilities ensure high network availability, efficient traffic management, and inter-network routing. Additionally, the device carries a wide range of approvals, including ATEX, IECEx, and maritime classifications. Its modular design and hot-swappable interface modules allow flexible expansion as network demands grow.
Key Technical Specifications
Port Configuration and Connectivity
The SCALANCE XM408-8C provides 8 combo ports, each featuring both an RJ45 connector and an SFP slot. You can use either the copper or the fiber interface per port, but only one at a time. The base unit offers a total of 8 usable ports initially. For expansion, it supports up to 2 extension modules, allowing a maximum of 24 ports total. These can be electrical (RJ45) or optical (SFP or LC) ports. All RJ45 ports include securing collars for robust cable retention. A dedicated console port (RJ11) and a management port (RJ45) enable local and remote configuration.
Power Supply and Power Consumption
This switch features a redundant power supply input for increased reliability. It accepts a DC voltage range from 19.2 V to 28.8 V, with a nominal rating of 24 V DC. Typical power consumption reaches 48 W, and maximum current draw goes up to 2 A. The built-in fuse (15 A / 125 V) protects the device against overcurrent conditions. A 4-pole terminal block simplifies wiring for both power inputs. For PoE-enabled extension modules, the system can deliver up to 30 W per port and 360 W total.
Layer 3 Routing Capabilities
A standout feature of this switch is its integrated Layer 3 routing functionality. It supports static IP routing for both IPv4 and IPv6. Additionally, it handles dynamic routing protocols, including RIPv2, RIPnG for IPv6, OSPFv2, and OSPFv3 for IPv6. VRRP and VRRP for IPv6 provide gateway redundancy. These routing capabilities allow the switch to route traffic between different subnets and VLANs, reducing the need for external routers in industrial networks.
Switching Performance and Protocols
The 6GK5408-8GR00-2AM2 supports a maximum telegram length of 9216 bytes (jumbo frames). For network management, it offers CLI, web-based management, and SNMP v1/v2/v3. It also supports RMON, port mirroring, and multiport mirroring for traffic analysis. PROFINET Conformance Class B ensures seamless integration with Siemens automation environments. Protocol support includes Telnet, HTTP, HTTPS, TFTP, FTP, BOOTP, GMRP, DCP, LLDP, EtherNet/IP, and IGMP snooping/querier.
Redundancy Features
Network reliability stands as a core strength of this switch. It supports multiple redundancy protocols, including High Speed Redundancy Protocol (HRP) with redundancy manager and standby redundancy. Media Redundancy Protocol (MRP) and MRP Interconnection (MRP-I) are also available. Additionally, it supports STP, RSTP, RSTP+, MSTP, and passive listening. LACP enables link aggregation for increased bandwidth and redundancy. Reconfiguration time for ring redundancy falls below 0.3 seconds, minimizing downtime in critical applications.
Security Functions
Security features include MAC-based ACLs, port/MAC-based ACLs, and IEEE 802.1x (RADIUS) for port-based authentication. The device also incorporates broadcast/multicast/unicast limiting and broadcast blocking to prevent network storms. For encrypted management access, it supports SSH and SSL protocols. These functions help protect your network from unauthorized access and cyber threats.
Time Synchronization
The switch supports NTP client, SNTP client, and SICLOCK for precise time synchronization across the network. Accurate time stamping facilitates troubleshooting and event correlation in distributed automation systems.
Mechanical and Environmental Ratings
Physical Dimensions and Mounting
The switch measures 140 mm in width, 147 mm in height, and 125 mm in depth. It weighs 1.15 kg. The modular design allows easy replacement of interface modules. You can mount it on a 35 mm DIN rail, an S7-300 rail, or an S7-1500 rail. This versatility simplifies installation in various cabinet configurations.
Extended Temperature Range
The SCALANCE XM408-8C operates reliably from -40 °C to +70 °C. Storage and transport temperatures range from -40 °C to +85 °C. This wide temperature tolerance makes it suitable for outdoor cabinets, cold storage facilities, and desert installations. Relative humidity can reach 95% at 25 °C without condensation, ensuring performance in damp environments.
Protection Class and Approvals
The device carries an IP20 protection rating, suitable for installation in control cabinets. It holds numerous international approvals, including CE, UL 508, UL 60950-1, ATEX, IECEx, FM, and CCC for hazardous locations. Maritime approvals from ABS, BV, DNV GL, LRS, NK, PRS, and RINA further extend its application scope to shipboard and offshore installations. The MTBF rating of 28 years reflects high reliability.
Installation and Configuration Guidance
Mounting the Switch
First, select an appropriate mounting method based on your cabinet layout. For DIN rail mounting, snap the switch onto a 35 mm rail. For S7 rail mounting, use the compatible rails as specified. Ensure adequate clearance for cable connections and airflow. The modular design allows you to add or replace interface modules without powering down the entire unit.
Power Supply Wiring
Connect the DC power supply to the 4-pole terminal block. For redundant operation, connect both power inputs to separate sources. Observe correct polarity to avoid damage. The integrated fuse provides protection, but we recommend using an external circuit breaker for added safety.
Connecting Network Cables
Plug RJ45 cables into the 8 combo ports. Use shielded cables for industrial environments to minimize electromagnetic interference. For fiber connections, insert compatible SFP transceivers into the combo slots. The switch automatically negotiates speed and duplex for each port. For expansion, install extension modules and connect additional cables accordingly. The console port (RJ11) and management port (RJ45) allow local and remote access for initial setup and troubleshooting.
Initial Configuration
Access the switch via the console port, management port, or through the Ethernet network using a web browser. The web-based management interface provides an intuitive way to configure VLANs, routing protocols, redundancy settings, and security features. Alternatively, use the CLI for advanced configurations. For PROFINET environments, STEP 7 integration simplifies device setup and diagnostics.
Packaging List
1 x SCALANCE XM408-8C managed switch (6GK5408-8GR00-2AM2)
1 x C-PLUG memory card (pre-installed)
1 x 4-pole power supply terminal block (pre-installed)
1 x 2-pole signaling contact terminal block (pre-installed)
1 x Quick installation guide
Note: SFP transceivers, extension modules, and mounting accessories are sold separately.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What does "combo port" mean on this switch?
A combo port provides both an RJ45 copper interface and an SFP fiber interface in the same physical location. You can use either connection, but not both simultaneously.
2. Can I expand the port count beyond 8 ports?
Yes. The base unit supports up to 2 extension modules, allowing a maximum of 24 ports total. These can be electrical RJ45 ports, optical SFP ports, or LC fiber ports.
3. Does this switch support Layer 3 routing?
Yes. The XM408-8C includes integrated Layer 3 routing. It supports static routing, RIPv2, OSPFv2, OSPFv3, VRRP, and VRRP for IPv6, enabling inter-VLAN and inter-subnet routing.
4. What redundancy protocols does this switch support?
It supports MRP, HRP, STP, RSTP, RSTP+, MSTP, passive listening, and LACP. Ring reconfiguration time stays below 0.3 seconds for minimal downtime.
5. Is this switch suitable for outdoor or extreme temperature applications?
Yes. The -40 °C to +70 °C operating temperature range and IP20 rating with rugged construction make it suitable for outdoor cabinets and extreme industrial environments.
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