Power Over Ethernet (PoE) Switch

Power Over Ethernet (POE)

Power over Ethernet (PoE) is an established technology that extends the capabilities of Ethernet signaling by providing low-voltage direct current (DC) power delivery to network devices over the same wires that currently carry data.

Benefits and Capabilities of PoE

PoE offers two benefits that are consistent across applications: cost savings and flexibility of device placement. Because PoE runs data and power together over the same cable to each device attached to the local area network (LAN), devices can be installed without concern for the proximity to individual AC outlets. This saves money by eliminating the cost and time associated with AC outlet installations while providing the flexibility to locate PoE devices where performance is optimum.

Additional benefits of PoE include manageability of power sources and battery backups to protect against outages and power spikes. By using a centralized power source, PoE offers the ability to remotely power connected devices on or off in the event of service disruptions or reconfiguration.

PoE also helps protect network investments, because it is an extension of the established 802.3 Ethernet protocol and is supported under 10Mbps, 100Mbps, 1Gbps and eventually 10Gbps data rates. Although no devices take advantage of 10Gbps data rates and PoE, it is only a matter of time for equipment vendors to recognize a need for this high data rate, such as for multimedia communications.

IP Surveillance Applications

IP security cameras and surveillance devices are gaining rapid acceptance beyond the enterprise among new and diverse markets such as public safety, traffic control and education. The growing adoption of IP security technologies also is driving the price of equipment down.

The use of these devices can broaden enterprise security initiatives without the expense of proprietary hardware and software or traditional CCTV equipment purchases, such as multiplexers, repeaters and signal splitters.

With a digital signal, camera views can be monitored over a virtually unlimited number of screens by utilizing almost any workstation with a common Web browser. Additionally, digitizing the camera signal enables the use of IP multicast solutions and enhanced hard-disk-based recording devices and storage options not available with traditional CCTV systems (see diagram below).

PoE systems also increase the reliability of security networks by providing cost-effective centralized backup power to all connected IP surveillance devices. During local power interruptions, a single UPS unit supporting a PoE-powered patch panel can provide seamless, reliable power for all surveillance cameras connected to it.