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Power over Ethernet provides an economical answer to our power and data requirements

What is Power over Ethernet and how might you use it?

Over the past decade our lives have become increasingly reliant on a vast array of devices. These support and control the environments in which we live and work. Therefore integrating new technology with Power Over Ethernet Cabling is part of that expansion into embracing new technology requirements.

Our way of life is interwoven with technology. Thus is in terms of mobile phones and the internet. Furthermore as part of an astounding network of cameras and sensors that monitor and regulate the world around us.

This is a trend that is set to continue as the Internet of Things comes of age.

We have sought to centralise much of the infrastructure that manages this technology, creating networks of environmental sensors, lighting controls and security devices.

These devices require both power and data connections to function

All of these devices require fixed power sources and data network connectivity to operate effectively. Most require a high level of resiliency and are therefore unsuited to battery power, or wireless network connections.

As you expand your network to include more nodes and user devices, creating separate power and data solutions becomes an arduous and expensive task.

As an alternative, Power over Ethernet, or PoE, can be used as part of a cost effective solution for distributing power. Furthermore it is able where it is needed throughout the home, office, campus or other environment. Usually the patch panel will use a patch lead to connect to the POE injector or switch. This then sends power to the device

Patch panels are a vital part of an Ethernet cabling solution for organising and managing cable connections. In addition they maximise the effectiveness of the IT cabling by delivering power and data to where it is needed.

There are are other cabling solutions that provide both power and data. For example USB. However PoE is suitable for far longer distances.

Power Over Ethernet Applications

Which applications is power over Ethernet mainly used for? The types of devices that are best suited to PoE connectivity remain in a fixed position and have a low power draw.

PoE is particularly useful for connecting disparate and geographically dispersed devices to your network. Thus avoiding the need to add a separate power source or additional cabling.

Common examples include:

In the data centre, PoE is an effective tool to power humidity and temperature sensors as part of a broader DCIM solution.

Electromagnetic Interference

To help prevent Electromagnetic interference when using PoE it is important that the patch panel is properly grounded.

This type of disturbance, if not guarded against, can have a serious detrimental effect on performance. Most panels are supplied with a grounding bolt for this purpose.

Power Over Ethernet Long term outlook

PoE patch panels will become an ever more important part of any structured cabling solution as the plethora of interconnected devices continues to grow.

As our environments at work and home become increasingly “smart”, PoE will emerge as the most dependable and cost effective method of supplying power and data to the network of cameras, sensors and telecommunications equipment that we have become increasingly reliant on.

Download as a PDF document Power over Ethernet

For more information on Power over Ethernet Contact NM Cabling  01923 888588

Read more about PoE in our Knowledge Centre