Belden unveils HiOS – a new operating system generation for its Hirschmann brand of switches

Belden Inc., a global leader in signal transmission solutions for mission-critical applications, has introduced an entirely new operating system for the managed switches in its Hirschmann product program – HiOS. Specially developed to meet requirements in the automation sector, this operating system will be initially available in two Layer 2 versions, with a Layer 3 version due to be launched in the course of 2013.

With the new HiOS operating system, Belden has further extended the range of applications for the Industrial Ethernet switches in its Hirschmann product program: "The performance of this operating system will set a new benchmark for the automation sector", says product manager Jürgen Schmid. "It permits the use of intelligent infrastructures in time-critical applications, previously exclusively a 'hard-wired' domain, i.e. with point-to-point connections. In a transformer substation scenario, for example, this allows sensors and controllers to be securely connected to the network via Ethernet".

In addition to numerous management and diagnostic options, both the Standard and Advanced versions provide precise time synchronization compliant with IEEE 1588v2 plus a variety of redundancy protocols. With zero switchover times, the PRP (Parallel Redundancy Protocol) and HSR (High-Availability Seamless Redundancy) redundancy methods ensure smooth production processes. Comprehensive security mechanisms protect networks against attacks and operating errors, so also contributing to high network availability. On top of this, the Advanced version provides additional "Quality of Service" functions such as DiffServ, VLAN extensions, and security mechanisms such as Access Control List (ACL) and IEEE802.1x Multi Client Authentication.

Both operating system versions can currently be used with switches belonging to the RSP, EES and MSP series. Moving forward, they will be employed in all new managed switches developed for the Hirschmann brand.

Supported by both the Standard and Advanced versions, management protocols include Telnet, SSHv2, HTTP, HTTPS, TFTP, SFTP, and SNMP v1/v2/v3. In addition to PRP und HSR, redundancy protocols also include MRP (Media Redundancy Protocol), Fast MRP, and RSTP (Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol). Security mechanisms comprise MAC-based Port Security, Authentication (IEEE802.1x), Guest/unauthenticated VLAN, Radius Client, Restricted Management Access, Local User Accounts, various Privilege Levels, Management Authentication via Radius, Account Locking, configurable Password Policy and Login Attempts, Audit Trail, CLI/SNMP Logging, and HTTPS-certified Management.

Hirschmann, a Belden brand, manufactures Ethernet switches, WLAN systems, firewall/VPN routers and network management software for harsh industrial environments. As one of the pioneers in the development of Ethernet as an accepted standard for industrial data communications systems, the Hirschmann brand stands for experience and competence in the automation, transport, energy supply and distribution sectors. Thanks to their robust design, Hirschmann products guarantee smooth and secure data communication even under the toughest conditions. You will find further information about Hirschmann at www.hirschmann.com##www.hirschmann.com, or e‑mail us at for product inquiries.

St. Louis-based Belden Inc. designs, manufactures, and markets cable, connectivity, and networking products together with complete solutions in markets including industrial automation, enterprise, transportation, infrastructure, consumer electronics, education and healthcare. With approximately 7,600 employees, Belden has manufacturing facilities in North America, South America, Europe, and Asia, and sales offices in nearly every region of the world. Founded in 1902, its top-class products and strong brands have made Belden a world leader in the signal transmission industry. For more information, visit www.belden.com. Follow Belden on Twitter: @BeldenInc