When you're wiring up an industrial network, the switch in the middle of the floor has to do more than pass packets-it has to tolerate heat, vibration, and the occasional messy cabinet. Two 8-port candidates to consider are the Cisco IE-1000-8P2S-LM and the N-TRON 708TX. For many fieldbus and Ethernet-based control systems, 8 ports is a practical size for a small panel or machine cell. Both are aimed at automation and control environments, but they take different approaches to getting the job done.
Quick Verdict
If you want a switch that arrives with a power cable, the Cisco IE-1000-8P2S-LM V03 is the straightforward choice-provided you're comfortable with a used unit that shows service wear. If you'd rather spend about $19 less and get a new (open-box) unit that has been tested, the N-TRON 708TX gives you an 8-port path into industrial networking without the extra cabling.
Both switches share the same basic job: connecting devices on an industrial network. The Cisco is priced at $179.00, while the N-TRON is listed at $159.99. The N-TRON also comes from a U.S. origin and is set up for Ethernet/IP, though you'll need to supply your own cables and accessories. The Cisco includes a power cable, but its previous service life means you may need to reset it before use.
Comparison Table
| Product | Listed Price | Price Bar | Key Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cisco IE-1000-8P2S-LM V03 Industrial Ethernet Switch 8-Port w/ Cable | $179.00 | Used, 8 ports, includes power cable | |
| NEW* N-TRON 708TX 8-Port Industrial Ethernet Switch 10-30VDC Managed | $159.99 | New open box, tested, 8 ports, 10-30VDC, no accessories |
Where Each Product Wins
The choice between these two switches depends on what you care about most.
- The Cisco is the pick if you want the power cable included and are okay with a used switch that will need to be reset before it goes back on the job.
- The N-TRON is the pick if you want a new-open-box unit with a lower listed price and are already stocked with Ethernet cables and a power source.
Product Notes
Cisco IE-1000-8P2S-LM V03 Industrial Ethernet Switch 8-Port w/ Cable
The Cisco unit is a used 8-port industrial Ethernet switch that comes exactly as pictured: the main unit plus a power cable. It has been retired from service and the seller notes it was not factory reset, so a proper reset is up to the buyer. That's a clear limitation if you want a plug-and-play experience, but it also means you get a complete package with the cable included. If you don't mind a little setup work, this is the more convenient option. It's a solid option if you'd rather not track down a cable.
NEW* N-TRON 708TX 8-Port Industrial Ethernet Switch 10-30VDC Managed
The N-TRON is listed as new without a box, removed from an industrial environment, and tested working. It's an 8-port rugged Ethernet switch designed for factory automation, with a 10-30VDC input range and a black color scheme. The seller explicitly says the photos show everything included, so no additional cables or power supplies come with it. The product title includes 'Managed,' but the description refers to it as 'Unmanaged'; because the listing is inconsistent, don't rely on management features as a reason to choose this switch. It's best viewed as an 8-port industrial Ethernet switch that's been tested and is ready to deploy. If you're building a new cabinet and have spare patch cords, this is a simple add.
Final Choice by Use Case
For a straightforward 8-port deployment where you want the power cable in the box and are ready to do a factory reset on a used unit, the Cisco IE-1000-8P2S-LM is the more convenient pick. For a new open-box switch at a slightly lower price, with the understanding that you'll need to supply your own accessories, the N-TRON 708TX is the better fit. That decision comes down to whether you prefer a used switch with a cable or a new switch without one.
