Extending Ethernet
Extend your network far beyond the normal limits of Ethernet
The Wolverine series consists of five units with one thing in common – the ability to allow you to ignore the conventional Ethernet boundaries for copper cable. By design, a standard Ethernet network has a transmission limit of 100 metres (328 ft) over UTP copper cables, the Wolverine allows you to go much further and on many other kinds of cable.
The Wolverine series utilises SHDSL technology on twisted pair cables to establish a high-speed remote connection between two Ethernet Networks. Instead of needing to install fibre or radio links, the SHDSL technology can provide a cost-effective solution by using existing cables. Data rates up to 15.3 Mbit/s and an operating distance of up to 15 kilometres (9.3 miles) at lower data rates can be achieved.
WeOS can deliver unique IP security functionality for this class of product e.g. a multiport DMZ can be constructed by utilizing the internal port based firewall function. Remote secure access to a network can be provided using encrypted VPNs. For resilience, a ring of Wolverines can be created using the FRNT protocol, or by using OSPF, the Wolverine can form part of an enterprise network.
Extending Ethernet with reused cables
In most industrial data communication applications it is not unusual for the cost of cable and the installation to massively outweigh the cost of the equipment at either end of the link. There is not only this cost but the length of time it may take to lay the cable and inconvenience this may cause in the process. A simple solution that can provide good bandwidth and long transmission distances for Industrial Ethernet network is the Westermo Wolverine products.
Simple point to point
With a single twisted pair 15.7Mbit/s is possible. Using the DDW-142 two twisted pairs can be “bonded” to provide a channel with 30.4Mbit/s. Enough for most industrial systems.
It is not always about high data-rate if the lines are noisy data-rates as low as 32Kbit/s allow connections to be made in the harshest environments.
Multidrop solutions
Multidrop architectures were popular in network solutions for standards like FSK modems or RS485. The Ethernet extender can make use of these cables with different data rates on the various segments.
Ring solutions
With so many devices now having Ethernet connections more and more devices are attached to networks making them critical to operation – Network failure therefore is not an option. The Wolverine family allow ring structures to be built.
Built in diagnostics and management also allow analysis of line quality. Degradation of one of the lines can be flagged up and preventative maintenance carried out therefore ensuring 100% network operation.
Legacy serial connection
If you are upgrading a network then it may be that you will want to carry on running some of the old serial systems. The DDW-142 and DDW-226 provide an RS232 port for legacy connection.