SDS-3000/G3000 Series by MOXA: What Are They, When to Use Them, and How to Choose
Managed and unmanaged Ethernet switches have been around since the late 20th century, but the term “smart switch” emerged in the 2000s. While not yet widespread in industrial automation, now is a great time for this type of networking equipment to find its niche in the market. Let’s explore why.
What is an Ethernet Smart Switch?
An Ethernet smart switch sits between unmanaged and managed switches. Unmanaged switches are simple plug-and-play devices with no configuration options, where all connected devices share the same VLAN. Managed switches, even at Layer 2, offer extensive functionality: VLANs, DHCP, redundancy protocols, multicast, security, and much more. To fully utilize these, you typically need a solid networking background — something OT engineers don’t always have.
This is where smart switches come in. Designed to be nearly as simple as unmanaged switches while retaining essential managed switch features, they prioritize a “plug-and-play” approach. They offer a basic web UI and include only the most necessary functions, such as time settings (e.g., time zone, NTP) for accurate log timestamps, VLAN configuration for network segmentation, port mirroring for diagnostics, and redundancy protocols for network reliability.
The key advantage of smart switches is reducing the amount of networking knowledge required to set up basic network segments while retaining essential features. Learning managed switch configurations can take months of training (like a standard networking fundamentals course), while setting up a smart switch might take just a few hours of reading a manual, using a search engine, or asking a knowledgeable colleague.
Now that we understand what a smart switch is, let’s explore what makes MOXA’s SDS-3000/G3000 series truly special.
MOXA SDS-3000/G3000 Smart Switches: The Basics
At first glance, the MOXA SDS-3000/G3000 series looks like an unmanaged switch. It’s compact (20mm or 36mm wide, depending on the number of ports) and works out of the box. If you don’t touch the DIP switch (which we’ll discuss later), it behaves like an unmanaged switch with two-sided LED indicators that allow you to place it either front-facing or sideways while still being able to check active port statuses.
But the moment you log into the web interface, the real advantage of a smart switch becomes clear. Unlike MOXA’s fully managed switches, the SDS-3000/G3000 series doesn’t overwhelm you with dozens of configuration pages. Instead, it offers a one-page web UI, where separate pages are replaced with a “Management Bar” and “Management Buttons.”
Most functions are accessed by clicking a button and entering required data into a pop-up window — simple and efficient. The list of available configurations is intentionally limited to essentials, keeping things user-friendly.
Available Functions:
- Language selection (English, Traditional/Simplified Chinese, Japanese, German, French)
- Switch Locator (blinks LEDs to identify the device)
- Statistics (usage info)
- Fiber Check (fiber connector diagnostics)
- Factory Default Reset
- System Restart
- Management Interface Configuration (HTTP, HTTPS, TCP ports)
- Port Mirroring (traffic sniffing)
- Trusted Access (list of allowed IP addresses)
- Inventory Report Download (switch summary)
- Log File Backup
- Configuration Backup & Restore
- Firmware Upgrade
- User Account Management
- Logout
This is more or less what you’d expect from a typical smart switch. But what makes the SDS-3000/G3000 series stand out?
Network Security and Redundancy
In addition to management buttons, the web UI includes a “Configuration Panels” area, where settings like the switch name and IP address can be configured. However, the most notable feature here is the “Switch Profile” section, which provides essential functions for cybersecurity and network redundancy.
Key Features:
- Port Settings: Control access, speed, flow control, and MDI/MDIX mode
- Static Port Lock: Restrict access to specific MAC addresses
- IP-Port Binding: Restrict access to specific IP addresses
- Redundancy Protocols: Supports RSTP, STP, and MRP (manager + client)
- VLAN Configuration: IEEE 802.1Q VLAN support
Hovering over a port displays a table summarizing its current TX/RX statistics, including link status, speed, RSTP role, VLAN type, and even PD consumption in watts (for PoE models).
Additional features like an NTP client, unused port lock, and relay output for warnings further enhance security and reliability. But what truly sets these switches apart for industrial automation?
Industrial Automation Protocols
MOXA has a strong presence in industrial automation, and their smart switches are designed specifically for OT applications. The standout feature of the SDS-3000/G3000 series is its support for industrial automation protocols: EtherNet/IP, PROFINET, and Modbus TCP.
In the web UI, there’s a dedicated “Configuration Panels” section where these protocols can be enabled with a single click.
Once enabled, PROFINET, Modbus TCP, and EtherNet/IP statuses are transmitted and instructions received from connected devices. This allows SCADA/HMI systems to display real-time network data.
Even better, you don’t need to access the web UI to configure these protocols. The MOXA SDS-3000/G3000 features a DIP switch with 10 positions, each corresponding to different industrial protocol settings, including options with and without DHCP.
For example, if you want to enable the EtherNet/IP profile, simply set the DIP switch to position 3. If you need Modbus TCP with DHCP client enabled, set it to position 6; without DHCP, switch it back to 5. This straightforward configuration makes deployment quick and hassle-free.
In practical terms, this means you can take an MOXA SDS-3000/G3000 out of the box, set the DIP switch to the desired protocol, and immediately start using it with default IP addresses and VLANs — or log into the web UI for quick adjustments.
Smart PoE, SNMP, and Additional Features
Industrial automation isn’t the only application for these switches—video surveillance is another major use case. To support this, the MOXA SDS-3000/G3000 offers up to 8 PoE+ ports, each supplying up to 36W per port. The built-in Smart PoE software allows engineers to monitor PD status and set automatic recovery actions for failed devices.
Additionally, these switches support SNMP, including SNMPv3 for enhanced security, alongside other cybersecurity features like port lock, IP binding, and trusted access to align with IEC 62443 standards. Since the switch is a MOXA product, it can also be monitored in MOXA’s management software, MxView, making monitoring and deployment even easier.
With 34 models available, including up to 16 full Gigabit ports, SFP uplink ports, and PoE+ models, the SDS-3000/G3000 series offers flexibility for various industrial and surveillance applications.
Additionally, the MOXA SDS-3000/G3000 series supports the ABC-02-USB automatic backup configuration tool, enabling hassle-free system configuration backup, restoration, and firmware upgrades. The series also offers multiple mounting options — DIN-rail, wall mount, or rackmount (with an optional kit) — completing the list of features that MOXA has managed to pack into these compact devices.
Conclusion
Who should consider using MOXA’s smart switches?
- When basic managed switch functions are needed—without the complexity or cost of full management.
- When industrial protocols are required—many managed switches lack built-in OT protocol support.
- For fast, easy deployment or replacements—without needing deep networking expertise.
From automated optical inspection in PCB manufacturing to bottling production lines and remote video surveillance, the MOXA SDS-3000/G3000 series is a reliable and cost-effective solution for industrial networking. Your project may add up to this list!
APulsar Technologies: Your Partner in Industrial Network and Security Solutions
At APulsar, we don’t just provide cutting-edge products; we offer end-to-end engineering services to design, plan, and implement robust industrial networks. Whether you need help selecting the right switch, configuring OT protocols, or ensuring cybersecurity compliance, our experts are here to support you. Contact us today to optimize your industrial network for performance and security.
This is the heading
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.