25 Mar Power over Ethernet (PoE)

25/03/2022

Ethernet technology has the ability not only to transmit data as we all know and understand, but it also has the quality of constantly supplying electrical power to network devices such as switches, routers, telephones, and any IP device. This is achieved through the “Power over Ethernet” (PoE) standard together with the versions derived from it.

PoE corresponds to the IEEE 802.3af standard, where its main characteristics are the maximum power supply of 15.4 Watts and the compatibility detection of the devices that connect to the LAN network and regulate the power supply current required by the device.

There are also derived standards PoE+ (IEEE 802.at) and PoE++ (IEE 802.bt), which fulfill the same function, but deliver greater power, with a maximum of 30 and 60-100 Watts respectively.

The use of the PoE standard allows the reduction of power cables in communication network installations and the availability of additional ports for the use of other functions.

For more information, contact Cristóbal Calaf (cristobal.calaf@im3.cl).