Panduit's pre-configured IDF streamlines industrial network installations

Panduit Corp., known for its Unified Physical Infrastructure (UPI)-based systems, has announced the launch of its pre-configured Industrial Distribution Frame (IDF), specifically engineered to deploy and protect rack-mount Ethernet switches in industrial applications.

Steve Timian, VP at Panduit, comments, “The Pre-Configured IDF includes detailed deployment instructions and built-in features that save time normally spent designing, procuring, and installing. The IDF has been optimized with 3X the cooling capacity over typical deployments to improve network availability. Overall, the IDF provides customers with the means to simply deploy robust, scalable industrial networks.”

The company claims the new product's design provides consistent equipment deployment with 25% faster installation than an IDF installation that is not pre-configured, and can significantly lower the risk of downtime due to switch overheating. Panduit says the Pre-Configured IDF is UL 508A Listed and UL Type 4/12, IP66 Rated to ensure safety and reliability. The wall mount, dual hinged enclosure accommodates up to five switches with front and rear access for quick and easy maintenance.

“The market demand for industrial device connectivity is rapidly accelerating on the plant and factory floor, driven by emerging technologies, such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and cloud computing,” asserts Craig Resnick, vice president, ARC Advisory Group. "This rapidly growing market requires additional industrial strength infrastructure solutions that are designed for quick deployment, to withstand harsh environments, and shorten the time to perform functions ranging from diagnostics and maintenance to upgrades and expansion."

Resnick added, "The Panduit Pre-Configured IDF addresses these issues, in addition to extending the lifecycle of the equipment such as switches and UPS systems installed in the enclosure. This is accomplished by creating an enclosure environment that maintains the installed devices’ designed operating temperature ranges as well as the NEMA or IP protection ratings for the devices.”

More information about the Panduit Pre-Configured IDF can be found at www.panduit.com/idf.