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HMS Networks has launched the N-Tron NT7000 Series, an industrial Ethernet switch platform designed for applications that require high network availability, precise timing and rugged operation.

For eeNews Europe readers involved in factory automation and industrial networking, the announcement highlights ongoing demand for deterministic communications and reduced network downtime in increasingly connected production environments.

Focus on timing and network recovery

The NT7000 Series is designed for industrial environments where network availability is critical. According to HMS Networks, the managed switches can begin forwarding traffic in less than seven seconds after startup and support N-Ring redundancy with network healing times of around 20 ms following a fault.

The platform also supports hardware-based IEEE 1588 Precision Time Protocol (PTP), enabling sub-microsecond synchronization across connected devices. HMS says moving timestamping functions into hardware can reduce timing variation compared with software-based implementations.

Simplified deployment and maintenance

The platform includes N-View 3 software for topology discovery, network monitoring, firmware management and centralized IP address administration.

A built-in microSD card supports configuration backup and restoration, potentially reducing downtime when replacing failed hardware. For EtherNet/IP deployments, the switches also support CIP messaging integration.

“Industrial teams keep telling us they need performance they can trust—without added complexity. The N-Tron NT7000 is built for that reality: fast startup, rapid recovery, hardware-based precision timing, and tools that make it easier to deploy, maintain, and restore. It’s designed to keep critical operations running in the environments where uptime matters most,” said Barry Turner, N-Tron Product Manager.

Industrial Ethernet switch targets rugged applications

The NT7000 industrial Ethernet switch platform is available in configurations ranging from six to eighteen Gigabit Ethernet ports, with fixed fibre and SFP options.

The switches are housed in DIN-rail mount metal enclosures and are specified for operating temperatures from -40°C to 85°C. Certifications include UL approvals for ordinary and hazardous locations, ATEX, IECEx, marine and railway applications.

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