ML1400 ethernet connection

Does the ethernet port need to be connected to a switch or hub before it is connected to a wireless adapter?

I have a ML1400 connected to LAN port on a MOXA AWK-3121 setup as a client talking to another moxa setup as AP. But when every thing is first powered up the ML to moxa ethernet connection blinks a few times but never establishes a connection. If i pull the patch cord out and put it back in the connection gets established right away...is driving me nuts. Does anyone have an idea what is going on?

Not in my experience.

putting a switch between does the trick...

Technically/Officially, you should use a crossover cable between the ML and your Moxa if there is no switch/hub in between. Perhaps it's an auto-crossover issue not detecting right away properly on power up. The Moxa has MDI/MDI-X capability, but sometimes I've seen for some reason, this feature doesn't quite cooperate with PLCs.

If you have a crossover cable and some time, try it!

There exist cross-over adapters to fit between also.

I tried a crossover cable but it didn't work. This why it was causing me such a headache. I have a feeling that there is an issue with the radio's updated firmware...but how do I prove that?

I'm not sure if this is a setting in your Moxa device, but try to see if you can disable auto-crossover somehow. Sometimes it's called Auto MDI/MDI-X.