8-Port Gigabit Ethernet Switch - XES-8G

• Optimized for Art-Net, sACN and Dante
• Four queue DiffServ (differentiated services) for optimal quality of service (QoS) with the Dante protocol
• No broadcast bandwidth limitation
• Two universal power supplies (redundant PSU)
• Neutrik powerCON inputs and outputs for primary and backup power supply unit
• Neutrik etherCON sockets for network connection
• Rack mountable, 1 height unit

Its ease of use makes the XES-8G a perfect fit for smaller and midrange productions with demanding requirements. With the growing popularity of TCP/IP and Ethernet based protocols for lighting and sound, it is expected that more and more network capacity will be required for those applications in the upcoming years. The XES-8G provides enough bandwidth for controlling the light of almost any show and it can handle the data rates required for transmitting many audio channels or even those needed for displaying high resolution motion pictures on LED walls.

As a layer 2 switch, the XES-8G is generally unaware of the application and therefore it works well with any protocol that operates on top of TCP/IP and with many Ethernet1) based protocols. However, special precautions have been taken to ensure that the XES-8G works perfectly with Art-Net, sACN and Dante. The Art-Net specification for example expects the controller to only send data every few seconds or when an update is available. A typical switch might put itself into sleep mode when no traffic is observed, not so the XES-8G; it stays ready to forward data anytime without delay.

With the increased acceptance of TCP/IP and Ethernet based protocols, the proper operation of the network and its equipment has become critical for many shows. In stage lighting for example, more often than not, all of the control data transmitted from a light controller will be passed through at least one switch, before it reaches any actual fixture. Therefore, it is crucial to professionally plan, configure and install the network for any show or venue. As a measure to further lower the chances of network outages, the XES-8G comes equipped with two separate switch mode PSUs that can be powered from two different mains supplies.