Benefits of Power over Ethernet

Power over Ethernet (PoE) is a system that uses standard Ethernet data cabling to send DC electrical power along with data to remote IP devices, such as cameras, wireless access points, VoIP phones, access control devices and an ever-growing list of other end-use IoT devices. Using PoE to connect and power these devices offers significant advantages over standard electrical powering. Let’s take a look at some of those benefits. 

1. Time and Cost Savings. PoE eliminates the need for separate electrical power cabling and outlets.
   • Reduced Installation Complexity. By combining power and data transmission over a single Ethernet cable, you save time, cost of cabling and installation cost. The installation is less complex with fewer power lines to each device.
   • Fewer Power Outlets Required. Traditional AC power typically requires dedicated electrical outlets for each device. With PoE, you can power multiple devices from a single PoE switch or injector. In addition, consolidating the number of required power outlets reduces the overall cost of installation.
2. Flexibility in Device Placement. PoE allows you to position devices exactly where they’re needed.
   • Ideal Device Location. Often, placing a power outlet in the desired location is not feasible or cost-effective. PoE allows the switch to be located near a power outlet, so the connected devices can be located where needed without concern whether a power outlet is accessible nearby. For example, PoE enables security cameras to be located within 100 meters of the switch without the need for additional power outlets.
   • Easy Repositioning. Modern environments, such as offices, warehouses and retail spaces, often require frequent moves, adds and changes. Since PoE cables are flexible and easy to reroute, connected devices can be repositioned easily as needs arise.
3. Enhanced Safety. PoE meets t IEEE-established standards to ensure the safe transfer of power to devices.
   • Intelligent Power Delivery. PoE includes a power “negotiation” process, through which the powered device communicates its power requirements to the power source, resulting in the delivery of only the acceptable level of power. In addition, PoE switches can monitor the power consumption of connected devices, protecting against overload or underpowering.
   • Installation Assurance. By following PoE standards, devices are also safeguarded from PoE power being sent to a non-PoE device, preventing damage to network equipment.
4. Reliability. PoE power from a centralized switch is more reliable than individual wall adapters.
   • Centralized Power Source. Accessing power from a centralized switch increases reliability because the source of power is not scattered across multiple distributed wall outlets. A centralized switch also simplifies troubleshooting since you can more quickly and precisely locate the power source in the event that a device loses power.
   • Remote Device Control: Lantronix PoE switches empower administrators to remotely and automatically disable or reset non-responsive devices. This eliminates the need for sending a technician to the site in order to reset power on a device, reducing valuable network downtime and costs.
5. Scalability. PoE accommodates easy Ethernet network expansion.
   • Simple Network Growth. Because PoE eliminates the need for additional power outlets, adding new devices to an Ethernet network is easy. As long as the PoE switch has enough available PoE budget, adding new devices is as simple as plugging into a vacant switch port.
   • Future Proofing: As PoE standards evolve, Lantronix switches will continue to support the demand for higher power levels (such as PoE+ and PoE++). This scalability helps ensure your network can accommodate future technologies without the need for a major infrastructure overhaul.

Power over Ethernet is a great solution for IoT networks. PoE offers cost-effective installation and flexibility in device placement as well as the enhanced safety, reliability and scalability needed when adding new devices to evolving networks.

To learn more about Power-over-Ethernet offered by Lantronix, contact us.