Cisco IEM-3500-16P Overview

The Cisco IEM-3500-16P is a powerful 16-port Gigabit Ethernet PoE/PoE+ copper expansion module designed for the Cisco IE3500 series of rugged industrial switches. Built for harsh IoT environments, this module delivers high-density power and data connectivity for industrial applications requiring reliability, fast deployment, and extensive device support. It expands the switching capabilities of the IE3500 platform, making it ideal for manufacturing, utilities, smart cities, automation, and industrial networking.

This module offers a seamless way to scale industrial networks by providing 16 additional 10/100/1000BASE-T PoE/PoE+ ports, delivering up to 30W per port and supporting a wide range of powered devices such as IP cameras, sensors, PLCs, wireless access points, and automation endpoints.

Key Features of the Cisco IEM-3500-16P

High-Density Gigabit PoE/PoE+ Connectivity

The IEM-3500-16P offers sixteen Gigabit Ethernet copper ports with IEEE 802.3af/at PoE and PoE+ support. This enables the switch to directly power industrial devices, eliminating the need for external power injectors and simplifying infrastructure design.

Rugged Industrial-Grade Design

Built to withstand extreme temperatures, electrical noise, shock, and vibration, the module performs reliably in demanding operational environments. It is suitable for harsh industrial sites with extended longevity and minimal maintenance.

Easy Expansion for Cisco IE3500 Series

Engineered as part of the Cisco IE3500 modular ecosystem, the expansion module allows organizations to scale their network capacity quickly. The plug-in design ensures fast installation without requiring complex reconfigurations.

Strong Security and Network Reliability

Like the IE3500 chassis, the module benefits from Cisco’s IOS XE software features, including network segmentation, secure boot, MACsec, and policy-based automation. This ensures consistent protection across OT and IT networks.

Technical Specifications

• Model: Cisco IEM-3500-16P
• Interface Type: 16 × 10/100/1000BASE-T copper ports
• PoE Support: IEEE 802.3af (PoE) and IEEE 802.3at (PoE+)
• PoE Power Budget: Up to IE3500 switch’s available power allocation (varies by PSU)
• Max Power per Port: Up to 30W
• Operating Temperature: -40°C to +70°C (rugged)
• Compliance: IEC, ISA, UL industrial standards
• Switch Integration: Compatible with Cisco IE3500 series base models
• MTBF: High reliability industrial-grade components
• Use Case Applications: Industrial automation, transportation, smart grids, security, utilities, and energy systems

Benefits of Using the Cisco IEM-3500-16P

Simplified Power and Data Infrastructure

With PoE/PoE+ powering capabilities, the module reduces installation cost and complexity by centralizing network power delivery.

Scalable Industrial Network Architecture

Organizations can expand port density without replacing the entire switch, providing long-term flexibility and investment protection.

Enhanced Support for IoT Devices

High-bandwidth Gigabit ports allow the module to support real-time data transmission required for automation, sensors, and video analytics.

Cost-Effective High-Performance Design

Instead of adding separate switches for more PoE ports, the IEM-3500-16P efficiently extends the existing IE3500 chassis.

Common Use Cases

Smart Manufacturing and Process Automation

Ideal for powering robots, controllers, HMIs, and sensors with low-latency Gigabit connections.

Transportation and Roadway Systems

Supports IP cameras, traffic sensors, and roadside wireless infrastructure.

Utility Grid and Energy Monitoring

Provides secure and reliable networking for substations, smart meters, and SCADA systems.

Oil, Gas, and Mining Environments

Performs in rugged conditions with minimal risk of network downtime.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the Cisco IEM-3500-16P used for?
It is a 16-port PoE/PoE+ copper expansion module used to increase Gigabit port density on Cisco IE3500 industrial switches, especially for powering IoT and automation devices.

2. Does the module support PoE+ devices?
Yes. It supports both IEEE 802.3af (PoE) and IEEE 802.3at (PoE+) with up to 30W per port.

3. Can it operate in extreme temperature environments?
Absolutely. The module is built for industrial temperature ranges from -40°C to +70°C.

4. Is this module hot-swappable?
It is designed for easy installation, but whether it can be swapped live depends on the power mode and configuration of the base IE3500 chassis.

5. Which Cisco switches are compatible with the IEM-3500-16P?
It is specifically designed for Cisco IE3500 series industrial switches.