Aitech’s rugged 48-port managed gigabit Ethernet switch. Photo: Aitech

[Via Satellite 05-13-2015] Aitech Defense Systems has released a new standalone, fully managed layer 2/3 IPv6 48-port gigabit Ethernet switch, the A661, for interconnecting several subsystems to pass data across a rugged broadband network. The radiation tested and qualified device is robust enough for use in several military, aerospace and Low Earth Orbit (LEO) environments, requires no additional user code, and functions and operates as a stand-alone unit.

The A661’s compact 2×24 GbE switch unit is comprised of two of Aitech’s series-400 conduction-cooled C660 24-port Ethernet switches encased in a durable, lightweight, cold plate-cooled enclosure. It is Electromagnetic Interference (EMI)/Radio-Frequency Interference (RFI)-protected and housed in a chassis designed to withstand severe shock and vibration as well as exposure to environmental elements, such as altitude, humidity and temperature extremes.

The managed switch can provide control and data pathways to LEO platforms including the International Space Station (ISS). System power and I/O connections are provided through rugged, military-grade MIL-STD-38999 connectors on the front panel.