Power over Ethernet (PoE) Enterprise Network
As we race toward the next major technological age, businesses are searching for cost-effective ways to expand and optimize their enterprise networks. Before investing substantially in new equipment, most business owners want to learn how to get the most out of their existing network components.
Power over Ethernet (PoE) offers an affordable solution for growing your network sustainably by adapting what you already have.
What is Power over Ethernet (PoE)?
PoE is a technology that allows both power and data to be delivered over a single cable. It sends low-voltage direct current (DC) electrical power over standard Ethernet cables. Ethernet cables contain two pairs of twisted copper wires, and since only one pair is needed to transmit data, PoE leverages the other pair to carry electrical power. Easy to install, PoE eliminates the need for wiring in hard-to-reach places such as ceilings and tight spaces, where it can be expensive and difficult to install an electrical outlet.
PoE simplifies remote access for content providers and makes installing powered devices outdoors or in industrial environments easy.
Overview of PoE in Networking
All PoE requires three main components: power sourcing equipment (PSE), a cable, and a powered device (PD). The PSE supplies both data and power through a cable, and it can be either a PoE switch or a PoE injector. A PoE network switch comes with built-in PoE functionality, while a PoE injector can add PoE capability to a non-PoE switch. A PoE injector allows you to integrate PoE-compatible equipment with existing non-PoE components.
Examples of PoE-compatible PDs include:
- IP cameras.
- VoIP phones.
- Wireless access points (WAPs).
- Video conferencing systems.
- Point-of-sale (POS) terminals.
- PoE lighting.
- Security systems.
- Building automation systems.
The flow of PoE functionality begins when the PSE detects that a PD has been connected. Low-voltage pulses first identify whether the device is PoE-compatible and how much power it requires. Then, the powered device is classified by the power sourcing equipment based on its power needs. This prevents the PSE from accidentally overloading the PD.
Once the PD has been classified, the PSE can begin delivering the required DC power over the unused wires in the Ethernet cable while simultaneously transmitting data as normal.
Networking Terms: What is LAN? WAN?
A Local Area Network, or LAN, is a network of devices interconnected within a limited geographic area. A home, school, office building, or university campus represents a LAN that allows devices like computers to communicate and share information resources easily.
WAN stands for Wide Area Network. WANs are larger telecommunications networks that span wide geographical areas. To connect an organization within geographically distributed sites, a WAN uses a variety of links, including private lines, virtual private networks (VPNs), wireless connections, and the Internet. WANs are used to connect branch offices and remote employees with headquarters or a data center.
PoE provides a variety of benefits to both LANs and WANs.
Key Benefits of Using PoE in Networking
PoE operates on IEEE 802.3 af, 802.3 at, and 802.3 bt standards. IEEE 802.3 af supports 15.4 W of power. IEEE 802.3 at supports 30 W of power. IEEE 802.3 bt supports 60 W of power. Larger PDs, such as PoE lighting systems and smart technology platforms, typically require a higher power budget.
There are numerous benefits to using PoE in enterprise networking.
Simple Installation
Incorporating PoE into a network reduces installation costs because it does not require expensive wiring or new outlets. PoE eliminates the need for running separate power and data transmission cables, resulting in less cord clutter and a safer work environment.
Cost Savings
While a PoE switch may cost more upfront than a regular switch, it offers substantial cost savings in the long run. Installing electrical connections for every device needed far outweighs the added cost of purchasing a PoE switch, not to mention the savings achieved by requiring less cabling and reducing infrastructure needs. PoE injectors and splitters allow IT techs to combine newer devices with legacy equipment for more efficient networking overall.
As an added bonus, PoE will reduce energy budgets thanks to more efficient power delivery.
Centralized Power Management
PoE’s embedded switch features offer centralized power control and management. Usage tracking and an improved ability to troubleshoot electrical problems mean more energy efficiency and reduced resource consumption.
Flexible Device Placement
With PoE, devices can be placed in a location that best suits their function, rather than being limited by power outlet availability. Relocating devices also becomes much easier without having to rely on additional power sources. Because PoE is basically plug-and-play, components can be easily moved and reconnected at the switch level to accommodate shifting network configurations.
This is especially important for VoIP phones in conference rooms and security cameras mounted on ceilings.
Scalability
Because adding new PoE-compatible devices to a network does not require additional wiring, expansion is a more straightforward process. Device compatibility is enhanced, and configurations are easily repeatable. This allows businesses to integrate PoE-enabled devices piecemeal and without needing significant modifications, making it easy to meet the growing demands of your network without the hefty price tag.
Improved Reliability
PoE switches can provide uninterrupted power and backups during outages. This enhances network reliability and ensures that critical devices such as security cameras or VoIP phones will continue to function and sustain uptimes should primary power sources go down.
Increasing Sophistication of Powered Devices
The convenience of delivering power and data over a single cable via PoE has driven design improvements for a wide range of devices. Converting to PoE-compatible systems is helping to improve the commercial workplace and many industries, making them more efficient and sustainable.
Planetech Can Help You Expand Your Enterprise Network with PoE
PoE enhances productivity without requiring a major resource investment. The professionals at Planet Technology can evaluate your enterprise network to help you expand your capabilities.
