Three different gateways from Hilscher on a colorful background. The products are slightly mirrored on the bottom.
empowering communication

    Our gateways are used to transfer and convert data between industrial automation networks. They offer a simple and cost-effective solution for any type of data conversion, whether used with fieldbus, Ethernet or Real-Time Ethernet systems or a combination thereof.

    Gateways & Switches for Industrial Communication

    Gateways are used for transferring and converting data between 2 industrial automation networks of the same or different type. They offer a simple and cost-effective solution for any type of data conversion, whether used with fieldbus, Ethernet or Real-Time Ethernet systems or a combination thereof. This enables the efficient integration of devices and plant components into existing structures and the connection of systems and network components.

    Our wide range of gateways offers a suitable solution for every application, from cost-optimized devices for simple and dedicated implementation to flexible high-end devices for demanding and individual conversion tasks.

    Our gateways are available in 2 different versions. The netHOST, netTAP 50, netTAP 100, netTAP 151 and netSWITCH variants are ideal for installation in control cabinets or distributor boxes. They can be mounted on a standard 35 mm DIN rail according to IEC 60715 and are protected to IP20 requirements. Our netLink devices, on the other hand, are connectors designed for direct mounting, making them both very easy to implement and cost-effective.

    Gateways for Industrial Ethernet/Fieldbus/Serial

    The gateways of the netTAP series give you unprecedented flexibility when it comes to protocol conversions in communication networks.

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    Remote Master

    The netHOST LAN gateway is used to control your fieldbus and Real-Time Ethernet systems through the conventional Ethernet.

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    netSWITCH for Industrial Ethernet

    The SPE Media Switch connects Single Pair Ethernet with Industrial Ethernet networks. 
    netSWITCH enables you to connect conventional Ethernet systems with Real-Time Ethernet networks.

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    SmartWire-DT Gateways

    Our gateways connect your SmartWire-DT devices and components into higher-level Real-Time Ethernet networks—saving you time with a flexible modular design. Save development costs and rely on intelligent wired solutions with SmartWire-DT and Hilscher.

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    Related links

    Communication controllers and printed circuit boards are extensively tested at Hilscher in Germany.
    From the netX chip to the cloud – Hilscher technology

    We make industrial communication possible. From legacy fieldbus to Real-Time Ethernet and the cloud. Our solutions are multi-protocol capable, flexible and reliable. Learn more about how our netX software and hardware technologies work and how we make machine data accessible for you with our IIoT platform netFIELD.

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    Support for your projects

    Are you looking for an integration partner for your industrial communication project? From multi-protocol capable netX chips to IIoT applications - our network of partner companies offers you the support you need!

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    Customer Center / Sales Hilscher Gesellschaft für Systemautomation mbH

    You've got questions? We've got the answers!

    Gateways FAQ

    Why are gateways needed in industrial communication?

    Gateways are required as interfaces between different fieldbus and Industrial Ethernet protocols. They enable seamless communication and segmentation between machines, controllers, and networks, even when different standards are used.

    What are multiprotocol gateways?

    A multiprotocol gateway is a gateway that supports multiple communication protocols, such as PROFINET, EtherCAT, EtherNet/IP, and PROFIBUS. This allows multiple protocol conversions to be implemented with a single device.

    What functions do Hilscher gateways provide?
    • Protocol conversion between fieldbuses and Industrial Ethernet
    • Integration of legacy and modern networks (retrofit)
    • Real-time data transmission between controllers and devices
    • Coupling of network segments using the same or different protocols

    Which protocols do Hilscher gateways support?

    Thanks to netX technology, Hilscher gateways support all common protocols, including:

    • Industrial Ethernet: PROFINET, EtherCAT, EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP, CC-Link IE Field, Sercos, POWERLINK
    • Classic fieldbuses: PROFIBUS, CANopen, DeviceNet, CC-Link
    • Serial protocols: Modbus RTU, ASCII, 3964R

    What are the benefits of gateways?
    • Easy integration into heterogeneous networks
    • Future-proof operation through broad protocol support
    • Rugged, industrial-grade design
    • Support for real-time communication
    • Protection of existing systems as part of retrofit solutions

    In which applications are gateways used?
    • Machinery and plant engineering: Connecting different control systems
    • Process industry: Data integration between field devices and control rooms
    • Automotive industry: Real-time-capable communication in production lines
    • Retrofit projects: Upgrading legacy machines to modern technologies

    What differentiates Hilscher gateways from other vendors?
    • Support for all major industrial protocols with master and slave functionality
    • Hilscher gateways are based on proprietary chip technology (netX)
    • Integrated netX technology enables a wide variety of protocol conversions within a single gateway
    • Robust hardware designed for continuous industrial operation
    • Made in Germany
    • Broad product portfolio covering a wide range of application scenarios

    Who are Hilscher gateways and switches intended for?
    • Machine builders requiring flexible network connectivity
    • Plant operators looking to connect heterogeneous systems
    • System integrators aiming to link legacy installations with modern technology
    • Industrial companies seeking to future-proof their production

    Which gateway product groups does Hilscher offer?

    netTAP 50: Entry-level gateways for simple conversions. Supports device-to-device conversions for segment coupling and device-to-controller conversions for device integration. As a controller, the netTAP 50 provides full controller functionality to only one device.

    netTAP 100: Flexible, high-performance gateway family. Supports device-to-device conversions for segment coupling and device-to-controller conversions for device integration in any combination.

    netTAP 151: High-end gateway specifically designed for Industrial Ethernet networks. Supports device-to-device conversions for segment coupling and device-to-controller conversions for device integration in any combination.

    netLINK PROXY: Compact proxy connector that converts a PROFIBUS device into a PROFINET device. Plug-and-play functionality minimizes installation effort.

    netLINK MPI: Compact programming adapter enabling programming, data visualization, and control of Siemens PLCs (S7-200®, S7-300®, or S7-400®) via Ethernet TCP/IP.

    netTAP MPI: DIN-rail version of the netLINK MPI, enabling programming, data visualization, and control of Siemens PLCs (S7-200®, S7-300®, or S7-400®) via Ethernet TCP/IP.

    netHOST: Enables control of fieldbus and Industrial Ethernet systems via standard Ethernet.

    SmartWire-DT Gateways: Connect SmartWire-DT devices to higher-level Industrial Ethernet networks.

    In which applications is the Hilscher SPE Media Switch used?
    • Integration of existing sensors into an SPE network
    • Integration of new SPE sensors into existing systems
    • Adding IoT functionality to legacy installations