Simon-in-Suffolk and a few others here have warned me of the potential for noise getting into our music as a result of among other things network switches with external power supplies (wall warts) I turned to the great Googlii for answers and did a query for ...
"Ethernet switch with built-in SMPS"
I found this switch that seems to fit my needs perfectly and thought I would share it with others. Simon also highly recommends the Cisco 2960 because of it's built in SMPS. I know that many of you don't really feel that commercial grade metal switches with internal SMPS matter at all but I'm not convinced but I don't have any proof at all 
Since I need to buy a switch anyway this one seems to have some distinct benefits to me (not sure it's available for use in UK) and it doesn't cost too much more than others.
TRENDnet 8-Port Unmanaged Gigabit GREENnet Desktop Metal Housing Switch with Internal Power Supply, TEG-S80DG
"The compact 8-Port Gigabit GREENnet Switch (TEG-S80Dg) provides high bandwidth performance, ease of use and reliability, all while reducing power consumption by up to 70%. GREENnet technology automatically adjusts power voltage as needed, resulting in substantial energy savings. An internal power supply eliminates a bulky external power adapter and frees up precious space around electrical power outlets. Boost your office efficiency and eliminate network congestion with Gigabit speeds and total switching capacity of 16Gbps with Full-Duplex Mode. Plug and Play this sturdy metal switch for reliable high-speed network connectivity. Max power savings compared with standard TRENDnet switches."
Network Media:
- Ethernet: Cat. 3,4,5, up to 100m
- Fast Ethernet: Cat. 5, up to 100m
- Gigabit Ethernet: Cat. 5, 5e, 6, up to 100m
Data Rates:
- Ethernet: 10Mbps/20Mbps (Half/Full-Duplex)
- Fast Ethernet: 100Mbps/200Mbps (Half/Full-Duplex)
- Gigabit Ethernet: 2000Mbps (Full-Duplex)
www.amazon.com/TRENDnet-Unmanaged-GREENnet-Internal-TEG-S80DG/dp/B0033GFH2E
If I'm off the mark and out to lunch then let me know. This along with Ferrite clamps are what I'm planning/thinking of.
Posted on: 19 December 2015 by Mike-B
I don't think there is anything anywhere that says an internal SMPS is any better than an outboard unit - wall wart or in-line. A SMPS is a SMPS, some are obviously better than others, but it has to be a top end wall-wart or in-line unit will be better than a run-of-the-mill internal supply. & don't forget that SMPS of the wall wart type are now designed under noise emission standards; what was true of noisy SMPS a few years ago is not so today.
I fully expect the top-end Cisco that Simon recommends has a good power supply, so I'm not arguing about that, but reading the www reviews the unmanaged switches in the price range you are considering do not talk about noise, and invariably they have outboard power supplies. The worlds favourite are the Netgear's closely followed by Linksys/Cisco & then TP Link
The hifi makes & forums who recommend & group test these things tend to go for makes like Netgear & Linksys/Cisco & I'm concerned that TrendNet do not get talked about much & then not very positively.
Posted on: 19 December 2015 by Mike-B
ooops I see I need to keep up a bit more. Thanks, I had not seen that.
Wikipedia quote
"The Linksys company was founded in 1988. It is currently owned by Belkin, who bought it from Cisco, its owners from March 2003 to March 2013"Oh well, now we have two branded companies whereas the same/similar products were only corporate brand names
Posted on: 20 December 2015 by Simon-in-Suffolk
Hi Blownaway, yes as Mike says it's not so much whether the SMPS is internal or external, rather it's the quality. The internal SMPS I have seen in a 2960 appears a good quality device with respect to noise and I actually use two in my radio room. On the other hand I have had real issues, including RFI into my FM aerial lead from a little external SMPS on my Netgear GS108.. also I believe the latter introduces a subtle glare into my digital audio that I just don't get on the 2960..
Now everyone's mileage might vary, but in my circumstance I don't use Netgear switches now on the edge of my network interfacing to my audio equipment... though the Netgear is fine for my Sky, Sony and AppleTV boxes.
Simon
PS I would be careful assuming different branded products owned by a joint parent have the same quality and design considerations. They usually don't in my experience.. The products will be made for different market and price points.. As a general rule of thumb it appears consumer products and brands are more price sensitive, so more basic / regulatory minimum construction methods are used.. compared to enterprise devices/brands which are designed to work in more challenging environments..
