Curtiss-Wright Defense Solutions has released the newest addition to its family of Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA)-based network switches with the introduction of the VPX3-655.
The VPX3-655 is the industry’s first 3U OpenVPX Ethernet switch module to provide up to 20 high-speed Ethernet ports.
Designed for today’s highly connected, size, weight, and power (SWaP)-constrained systems, this versatile open standards-based switch module provides system designers with the flexibility to architect Ethernet connectivity both within the chassis and externally to other destinations on the platform.
Its versatility also includes support for a wide range of Ethernet data rates, including 100Mbps, 1Gbps, 10Gbps and 40Gbps Ethernet connections.
The switch delivers backplane connectivity at high speeds of 1/10/40GbE while also supporting external 10GBASE-T connectivity via low-cost twisted pair Ethernet cable.
The VPX3-655 is designed for use in converged processing systems that provide high-speed 10G or 40G network links between processors and also require flexible high-speed connectivity to external sensors, datalinks, and other systems. The module also provides Multicast support to ensure efficient data distribution.
“The VPX3-655, our first Ethernet switch module to combine high-speed internal connectivity with a large number of external 10GbE ports using low-cost twisted pair cabling, represents our commitment to bringing the highest performance, most flexible, cost effective network solutions to deployed platforms,” said Chris Wiltsey, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Curtiss-Wright Defense Solutions.
“Every day we see increasing demand for more computing performance, with requirements for faster sensor and network interfaces along with higher levels of security. The VPX3-655 meets these needs with a cost-effective MOSA design while enabling the 10 and 40 gigabit network speeds required by next generation applications such as sensor fusion and situational awareness.”
The VPX3-655 is intended for C5ISR system designers that require external BASE-T interfaces to support Ethernet connectivity in systems aligned with The Open Group’s Sensor Open Systems Architecture (SOSA) Technical Standard.
Because it is pin-compatible with earlier 1G/100Mbps Ethernet switches, including Curtiss-Wright’s VPX3-652 and VPX3-685, the VPX3-655 brings 10GbE connectivity to legacy systems while maintaining compatibility with lower speed connections.
With its twelve ports that support 10GBASE-T / 1000BASE-T, the module eliminates the need for separate media conversion.
Its integrated switching software includes an extensive feature set for monitoring and enforcing traffic policies, creating advanced network architectures, and controlling managed switch security requirements such as disabling non-essential services.
Secure management interfaces include a powerful command line interface, SNMP, and web-based options. In-band management and networking features provide support for both IPv4 and IPv6. Curtiss-Wright delivers regular networking software maintenance updates to address emerging threats.
