When you're piecing together an industrial networking fieldbus system, the first decision is often new versus used. You also have to decide whether a specific manufacturer's gateway is worth the extra cost, or whether a lower-priced module will do the job. That's the tradeoff between these two gateways: a used Burkert ME43 and a new Invertek OPT-2-ETHEG-IN Ethernet IP module.
Quick verdict: If you want a brand-new Ethernet IP module and prefer to keep costs down, the Invertek is the straightforward pick. If you have your heart set on a Burkert ME43 and are comfortable buying used, the higher-priced Burkert unit is the one to seriously consider.
| Product | Condition | Price | Price Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Burkert 00307390 / ME43 | Used | $249.99 | |
| Invertek OPT-2-ETHEG-IN | New | $152.98 |
The price spread is significant when you're stocking a controls inventory. The Invertek is the cheaper of the two, and it's also the new one. That combination makes it a strong default for many projects. The Burkert costs more, but it's a specific model from a specific manufacturer, which can matter if you're replacing a failed unit in an existing system.
Where each product wins
- The Burkert ME43 wins for buyers who need that specific model and are willing to accept a used unit. The working-pull description gives some confidence, but you're paying a higher price for that specific gateway.
- The Invertek OPT-2-ETHEG-IN wins for anyone who wants a new module and doesn't need the Burkert form factor. Its lower price and new condition make it the lower-priced option.
Burkert 00307390 / ME43 Industrial Ethernet Fieldbus Gateway
This is a used Burkert ME43 gateway, identified as model 00307390 / ME43. The seller describes it as a working pull, so its service history is limited to that statement. It comes as pictured, meaning you should confirm the contents from the photos before buying. The $249.99 price is the higher of the two options here, but it buys you a gateway from a specific process-control manufacturer. If your system already uses Burkert controls and you want a matching ME43 fieldbus interface, this is the unit to consider. The main limitation is the condition: it's used, not new, and you won't get a fresh-out-of-the-box module. If you need a new unit or are uncomfortable with a pull, this isn't the right choice.
Invertek OPT-2-ETHEG-IN Ethernet IP Fieldbus Gateway Module
The Invertek OPT-2-ETHEG-IN is a new Ethernet IP fieldbus gateway module, priced at $152.98. It's listed as a PLC Ethernet Module, and the country of origin is the United Kingdom. For buyers building an Invertek-based system or needing an Ethernet IP bridge, this module offers a brand-new unit for considerably less than the used Burkert. However, the seller includes an important caveat: they don't accept responsibility for correct application or installation, and they state the item should be installed by qualified individuals. They also note that they don't test merchandise, so it arrives as a new-in-box item without testing. That means the burden of ensuring it works for your specific setup falls on you. If you're comfortable with that, the price and new condition are strong draws.
Final choice by use case
- If you're configuring an Invertek system or simply want a new Ethernet IP module for less money, pick the Invertek OPT-2-ETHEG-IN. You'll handle application and installation yourself, as the seller notes.
- If you need a specific Burkert ME43 gateway and are okay with a used pull, the Burkert unit is the one to buy, provided the working-pull description and as-pictured condition meet your standards.
