Understanding Power Over Ethernet (PoE)

As technology advances, energy efficiency is a common concern. While enormous strides have been taken to stay sustainable, there is still a massive amount of waste produced by homes and offices. A large amount of waste boils down to electricity.

We live in a digital world; our computers are on nearly 24/7, lighting systems are needed to operate properly, phone systems need to be implemented and security cameras need to be installed.

Instead of relying on a host of cables and connections to get the job done, more and more businesses are switching to Power over Ethernet (PoE). PoE allows devices to be powered over 4-pair category cables. PoE is being implemented in businesses all over the world to counter costs with an environmentally-friendly solution that doesn’t sacrifice power. In fact, PoE can deliver up to 100 watts of power. To put that into relative terms, the average human generates around 100 watts in an average day.

That’s a lot of energy!

If you are considering switching to a PoE solution, there are a few factors to consider so that cables remain effective and will safely adhere to the type of PoE implemented. With the latest types of PoE, Category 6 and 6A cables are recommended for the best performance. As category cables advance, Category 7 and 8 cables will become more widely available, promoting enhanced performance for PoE

What is Power over Ethernet (PoE)?

What do we mean when we say PoE? Well, it’s an advanced technology that lets the electrical power come from the network cables. This simplifies the connection process, cutting costs and introducing a more flexible option to the workplace.

For example, most equipment, predominantly in the audio and visual fields, would normally need two separate connections to work properly:

• Network Connection: For video recording and display features
• Power Connection: Delivers the electrical power the camera needs to operate

With POE, equipment would only need a network connection since the cable would be able to receive electric power through the connection. There are several types of PoE that the industry focuses on.

Type 1 and Type 2 are considered the original PoE cables. Since they were introduced years ago, their standards were much different than they are today. Typically, Type 1 and Type 2 PoE delivered 15-30 watts of power. Due to the low power, these were predominantly distributed to cameras, Voice Over IP telephones, and network routers.

Technology advanced and as a result, PoE did as well. The current types are 3 and 4, with powers of 60 and 100 watts, respectively.

There are some concerns about PoE, namely the heat the advanced cables produce. Managing the heat generation is a key concern within the industry, pinpointing the need for more advanced cable construction that can withstand heat without sacrificing technology.

What Are the Benefits of PoE

PoE solutions provide a host of benefits to businesses:

• Cost Efficient: PoE eliminates the need for extensive electrical cabling. Network cables are easy to implement without an electrician, making it easier for your business to get connected.
• Flexible and Reliable: PoE has the luxury of adaptability. By not being tethered to an electrical outlet, PoE power comes from a central and universally compatible source.
• Safe: While PoE has a susceptibility to heat, overall it is designed to protect equipment from overload, incorrect installs, and energy weakening.

PoE Solutions in Boston

Need advanced cables to support your switch to PoE? CableLAN Products carries electrical and fiber optic cables for all your voice, video and data communication needs. We stock Category 3, Category 5e and Category 6 electrical cables, coaxial cables and indoor and outdoor fiber optic cables from many of today’s leading manufacturers.

CableLAN’s premium quality cables meet the latest standards. One call to our inside sales representatives will get you prompt answers to your questions about premises and campus wiring products. Contact us today!