Overview
Until recently, JumboSwitch® connections were configured exclusively through IP addressing. With the latest upgrade, users can now configure their JumboSwitch models using MAC addressing as an alternative setup method.
This enhancement provides greater flexibility for customers to explore alternatives to routable protocols.
Key Benefits/Technical Impact
| Feature | Before Update | After Update |
|---|---|---|
| Addressing Method | IP Only | IP Addressing and MAC Addressing |
| Protocol Type | Routable (IP) | Routable (IP) Non-routable (MAC) *Selectable |
| Compliance Implications | NERC CIP Applies | NERC CIP Not Applicable for MAC addressing |
| Utility Flexibilty | Standard | Expanded |
Use Case: Utility Customer Deployment with MAC Addressing
Application
A utility in the Mountain West needed to integrate third-party power generators used for renewable energy into its existing infrastructure.
Challenge
The customer sought a non-routable solution for connecting its existing TC8631-1 Serial over T1/E1 Multiplexers, which utilized RS-232 connections for end devices at multiple substation sites. The non-routable solution meant that NERC-CIP does not apply to this application
Solution
TC engineers disabled the IP addressing for the TC3845-1 T1/E1 over IP Gateway, allowing the utility to keep its existing equipment while using MAC addressing for directing and connecting ports.
Outcome
After zero issues arose during bench testing of the enhanced JumboSwitch interface cards, the utility has standardized on this solution and continues to purchase based on this solution.
As a result of many other requests, TC Communications is now rolling this solution out to all of the JumboSwitch interface cards. This rollout will be complete Q4 2025, although most are already complete.
Related
Solutions
Interested in similar content? Subscribe to our mailing list.