Terafence a4GATE

a4GATE is a hardware-based unidirectional gateway designed for Industry 4.0 environments to control LAN Ethernet traffic at ISO/OSI Layer 1. The device connects to a machine network and collects data from smart machine components via IoT edge software. Collected data is transmitted in real time to an external network segment without a physical data-return path, using a patented hardware mechanism rather than software-based rules. This creates an air-gap level of one-way data flow, physically preventing data or access from moving back into the machine network from the outside. For scenarios requiring external access, such as authorized remote assistance or PLC configuration updates, a4GATE includes a physically activated switch that opens a temporary, timed, and monitored network path from the external side to the internal machine network. This bidirectional opening is configurable in duration and monitored during operation. The product is offered in multiple hardware configurations (Board A/B, Din-Rail box, and standalone Terafence hardware) with varying specifications for CPU, RAM, storage, ports, and power input. Core capabilities: - Unidirectional (one-way) data flow enforced at the physical layer - Hardware/chip-based data flow control rather than software/firmware-based - Zero induced latency - Complete control over LAN traffic direction flow - Low power consumption - LED status indication panel - Optional timed, monitored bidirectional access for remote configuration or assistance