Swisson XES-8G - 8-Port Rackmount Gigabit Ethernet Switch with Art-Net, sACN and Dante Optimization in Black Finish

The Swisson XES-8G is an 8-port Gigabit Ethernet switch optimized for Art-Net, sACN, and Dante protocols, designed to meet the needs of smaller and midrange productions with demanding networking requirements. As the use of TCP/IP and Ethernet-based protocols for lighting, audio, and video systems continues to grow, the XES-8G offers the performance and flexibility needed to handle high data rates for modern production environments. This rack-mountable, non-blocking Layer 2 Ethernet switch delivers reliable, real-time data transmission without delays, making it an ideal choice for live events, stage lighting, and complex audio-visual installations.

One of the standout features of the XES-8G is its ability to handle high bandwidth requirements, supporting a wide range of Ethernet-based protocols. Whether you're controlling lighting fixtures, transmitting high-resolution video to LED walls, or managing large-scale audio networks, the XES-8G provides the capacity to ensure smooth data flow across all systems. It supports 1000BASE-T (Gigabit), 100BASE-TX, and 10BASE-T Ethernet standards across all eight ports, with auto-negotiating and auto MDI-X capabilities that make setup and configuration fast and easy.

The XES-8G has been specifically optimized for use with Art-Net, sACN, and Dante protocols, which are commonly used in lighting and sound applications. Unlike typical switches that may enter sleep mode during periods of inactivity, the XES-8G remains ready to forward data at all times, ensuring there are no delays when updates or changes are sent through the network. This real-time readiness is crucial for performance environments where even a small delay in data transmission can have significant consequences.

The switch includes four queue DiffServ (differentiated services) for optimal Quality of Service (QoS) with Dante protocol, ensuring that audio data is prioritized and transmitted without interruptions. It supports up to 128 Dante channels per direction at 48 kHz, making it an excellent choice for audio professionals who require seamless, high-quality audio transmission in live settings. For lighting, the XES-8G can handle more than 1000 simultaneous Art-Net or sACN universes, providing the scalability needed for even the most complex lighting designs.

The XES-8G is designed with reliability in mind, offering two independent power supplies (PSUs) for redundancy. These switch-mode PSUs can be powered from two different mains supplies, ensuring that the network remains operational even if one power source fails. This dual-power setup is essential for live events and critical installations where continuous uptime is required. The unit is fitted with Neutrik powerCON inputs and outputs for secure and reliable connections to both the primary and backup power supplies, further enhancing its reliability.

For network connections, the XES-8G features rugged Neutrik etherCON sockets on all ports, providing professional-grade connectors that are built to withstand the demands of live productions and touring. These etherCON connections ensure a secure and reliable link between the switch and other network devices, reducing the risk of accidental disconnections or network failure during critical moments.

With a non-blocking Layer 2 switch design, the XES-8G ensures that all data is processed and forwarded as quickly as possible, without any bottlenecks or limitations on bandwidth. The switch features an address lookup engine with 4000 entries, allowing it to efficiently manage network traffic and ensure that data reaches its intended destination without delays or interruptions. This makes the XES-8G ideal for use in environments where large volumes of data are transmitted simultaneously, such as concerts, theater productions, and corporate events.

The XES-8G is easy to integrate into any professional AV setup, with a rack-mountable 1U design that fits seamlessly into standard equipment racks. It measures 19 x 5.35 x 1.75 inches and weighs just 3.75 lbs, making it a compact yet powerful addition to any network infrastructure. With a typical power consumption of only 6.5W, the XES-8G is energy-efficient, reducing overall power requirements while still delivering exceptional performance.

The Swisson XES-8G is a powerful and reliable Ethernet switch that is specifically designed to meet the demands of professional lighting and sound networks. Its combination of high data throughput, real-time data readiness, Dante optimization, and robust construction makes it a valuable tool for any production environment where reliable, high-performance networking is critical.

Features

• 8-port Gigabit Ethernet switch optimized for Art-Net, sACN, and Dante protocols, ideal for smaller and midrange productions with demanding networking requirements.
• Supports 1000BASE-T, 100BASE-TX, and 10BASE-T Ethernet standards across all ports, with auto-negotiating and auto MDI-X for fast and easy setup.
• Handles more than 1000 simultaneous Art-Net/sACN universes and supports up to 128 Dante channels per direction at 48 kHz, ensuring high-quality performance for lighting and audio applications.
• Four queue DiffServ (differentiated services) for optimal Quality of Service (QoS) with Dante protocol, ensuring smooth and uninterrupted audio data transmission.
• Remains ready to forward data in real-time without entering sleep mode, ensuring zero delays in Art-Net and sACN networks.
• Non-blocking Layer 2 switch design with an address lookup engine (4000 entries) for efficient data management and forwarding.
• Two independent switch-mode power supplies (PSUs) with Neutrik powerCON inputs and outputs for secure primary and backup power connections, ensuring network redundancy and reliability.
• Rugged Neutrik etherCON sockets for professional-grade network connections that are built to withstand the demands of live events and touring.
• Rack-mountable 1U design, measuring 19 x 5.35 x 1.75 inches and weighing 3.75 lbs, making it compact and easy to integrate into professional AV setups.
• Energy-efficient design with typical power consumption of ~6.5W, providing high performance with minimal power usage.
• Operating temperature range of -22 to +122°F, ensuring reliable performance in a wide variety of environmental conditions.

Specifications

• Ambient Temperature: -22 to +122F
• Typical Power Consumption: ~6.5W
• AC Power Input: 100-240 VAC
• Ethernet (all ports): 1000BASE-T (IEEE 802.3ab) and 100BASETX/10BASE-T, auto negotiating, auto MDI-X
• Ethernet Ports: 8
• Ethernet Switch Type: Non-blocking layer 2 Ethernet switch
• Address Look-up Engine: 4000 entries
• Art-Net/sACN Capacity: >1000 simultaneous universes
• Dante Capacity: up to 128 channels per direction at 48 kHz
• Dimensions: 19 x 5.35 x 1.75 inches
• Weight: 3.75 lbs