Cisco IEM-3500-8P: Industrial Ethernet 3500 Series 8-Port GE PoE/PoE+ Expansion Module

The Cisco IEM-3500-8P is a powerful expansion module designed to extend the capabilities of Cisco IE3500 ruggedized switches. With eight Gigabit Ethernet ports supporting PoE and PoE+, this module enhances industrial networks by delivering both data and power to field devices in challenging, mission-critical environments.

Its compact architecture, advanced security features, and compliance with harsh industrial standards make it a leading choice for utility substations, smart cities, manufacturing plants, and transportation systems.

Key Features and Technical Overview

The IEM-3500-8P expansion module adds flexibility and scalability to IE3500 platforms, enabling organizations to optimize edge-level connectivity without increasing cabinet footprint.

Key technical highlights include:

• 8x 10/100/1000BASE-T copper ports
• PoE and PoE+ support (IEEE 802.3af/at)
• Up to 30W per port, depending on power budget
• Layer 2 switching capability
• Industrial-grade operating temperature range
• Rugged EMI/EMC compliance
• Zero-touch deployment using Cisco DNA Center
• Support for Time-Sensitive Networking (TSN) on compatible IE3500 chassis
• IEC 61850-3 & IEEE 1613 compliance when installed in corresponding IE3500 models
• DIN-rail and compact industrial design

Performance and Power Capabilities

High power output and reliable data throughput make the IEM-3500-8P a robust solution for powering industrial endpoints such as:

• IP cameras
• Wireless access points
• Industrial controllers
• Sensors and actuators
• Field communication terminals

The module works in combination with the IE3500 switch’s system power supply to deliver a consistent PoE/PoE+ budget across all eight ports. Its Gigabit performance ensures low latency, making it suitable for real-time industrial communication.

Industrial Durability and Environmental Tolerance

Designed specifically for rugged edge deployments, the IEM-3500-8P meets stringent industrial standards. Depending on the base switch model, it can support:

• Operating temperatures from –40°C to +75°C
• High shock and vibration tolerance
• Protection from electromagnetic interference
• Reliable uptime in dusty, humid, or electrically noisy environments

Its fanless architecture supports long-term durability in enclosed or remote cabinets where maintenance cycles are extended.

Security and Network Management Features

Industrial networks increasingly require enterprise-grade security at the edge. When paired with the IE3500, the IEM-3500-8P supports:

• Cisco TrustSec
• MACsec (on supported base models)
• DHCP Snooping
• Dynamic ARP Inspection
• Port Security
• VLAN segmentation
• Secure Zero-Touch Provisioning

These capabilities make it easier to deploy and manage secure industrial networks at scale.

Use Cases for the Cisco IEM-3500-8P

Manufacturing Automation
The module enables powering automation systems, industrial robots, PLCs, and operator terminals using the same copper infrastructure.

Smart Transportation
Supports PoE cameras, roadside sensors, and communication units for ITS (Intelligent Transportation Systems).

Power Utilities and Substations
Its compliance with IEC 61850-3 and IEEE 1613 (when installed in compatible IE3500 models) ensures safe operation in high-interference environments.

Smart Cities
Ideal for powering street-level IoT devices, including lighting controllers, environmental sensors, and CCTV surveillance.

Oil and Gas Networks
Its wide environmental tolerance makes it suitable for hazardous, remote, or offshore locations.

Specifications Summary

• Ports: 8x GE RJ45 Copper (10/100/1000 Mbps)
• PoE Support: PoE/PoE+ (IEEE 802.3af/at)
• Max Power per Port: Up to 30W
• Module Type: Expansion module for Cisco IE3500 Series
• Operating Temperature: –40°C to +75°C (model-dependent)
• Switching Capacity: Follows IE3500 system backplane
• Security: TrustSec, port security, DHCP snooping, DAI
• Compliance: IEC 61850-3, IEEE 1613, EN/UL standards
• Deployment: Zero-touch provisioning, Cisco DNA Center-managed

FAQs

1. What is the main purpose of the Cisco IEM-3500-8P module?
It expands an IE3500 switch by adding eight Gigabit PoE/PoE+ copper ports for powering field devices while maintaining industrial-grade performance.

2. Does the IEM-3500-8P support PoE+?
Yes, it supports both PoE (15.4W) and PoE+ (30W), depending on the available switch power budget.

3. Can this module operate in harsh environments?
Yes. When installed in a rugged IE3500 switch, it supports industrial temperatures, high EMI immunity, and vibration tolerance.

4. Does the module provide Layer 3 capabilities?
Layer 3 routing is handled by the base IE3500 switch. The module provides Layer 2 Gigabit switching functionality.

5. Is the module compatible with all IE3500 models?
It is compatible with IE3500 switches that include an expansion slot. Power and environmental specifications vary by base switch model.