Tag: PoE

Understanding AC and DC Power, and the Advantages of Power over Ethernet

Power sources play a crucial role in anything involved with electronics. Understanding the differences between Alternating Current (AC) and Direct Current (DC) can be essential. Additionally, the evolution of technology has introduced innovative solutions like Power over Ethernet (PoE), changing the way devices receive power and data. In this article we’ll explore details about different types of power sources and how they apply to our everyday lives. 

AC vs. DC: The Basics

AC and DC refer to two distinct types of electric current. AC is characterized by the continuous change in the direction of the flow of electrons, making it the standard form of electricity distributed in homes and businesses. On the other hand, DC flows in a constant direction, making it ideal for electronic devices like smartphones, laptops, and electric cars.

Most electronic devices are designed to operate on DC power. Even devices with AC plugs, such as laptops and phone chargers, incorporate internal voltage converters that transform AC into DC current, ensuring compatibility with these devices. These converters, commonly known as power supplies or adapters, are available in various sizes, from small phone chargers to larger laptop power supplies.

Power Supply Connectors

DC power connectors come in different shapes and sizes to cater to various devices. Examples include cylindrical connectors, barrel connectors, and USB connectors. AC connectors, typically used in larger devices, have their specific standards and shapes.

Examples of some DC connectors:

Examples of AC connectors:

Powering Network Devices

In networking setups, routers, switches, and Access Points (APs) require a stable power supply. For home and small business routers and switches, external AC adapters are commonly used, supplying the necessary power to these devices. Larger routers and switches utilize standard AC cables connected to internal power supplies, ensuring efficient power distribution.

Examples of some external power supplies:

Examples of some internal power supplies:

Power over Ethernet

Power over Ethernet (PoE) has emerged as a game-changing technology in the world of networking. PoE enables both power and data transmission over a single Ethernet cable, simplifying installations and reducing clutter.

Types of PoE: Active vs. Passive

There are two main types of PoE: Active and Passive. Passive PoE delivers a constant voltage (such as 12 volts) over the Ethernet cable, with the connected device consuming the provided voltage. In contrast, Active PoE operates at standard voltages of 24 or 48 volts. The device at the end of the Ethernet cable communicates its voltage requirements to the PoE injector, which then supplies the precise voltage needed. Although they aren’t very common, PoE splitters can also be used in the cases that active PoE is the only option. For example, a 48V active splitter can provide 12V to a device that does not support PoE by negotiating the amount of power needed. 

PoE Switches: A Convenient Solution

PoE switches further streamline the implementation of PoE technology. These switches have built-in PoE injectors, eliminating the need for separate PoE injectors. By integrating power and data delivery into a single device, PoE switches simplify network setups, especially in scenarios where multiple PoE devices need to be connected.

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Power over Ethernet: Empowering Network Connectivity

In the realm of networking and data transmission, Power over Ethernet (PoE) can be a game-changer. This innovative technology revolutionizes the way we power and connect network devices, offering convenience, flexibility, and efficiency. In this blog, we’ll delve into what PoE is, explore its diverse use cases, and provide some general tips, including an overview of active and passive PoE and other common specifications to know.

What is Power over Ethernet (PoE)?

Power over Ethernet (PoE) is a technology that enables the simultaneous transmission of data and electrical power over standard Ethernet cables. Instead of relying on separate power cords or electrical outlets, PoE simplifies device installation and management by integrating power delivery directly into the existing Ethernet infrastructure. It employs a technique called “phantom power,” which utilizes unused wire pairs in the Ethernet cable to deliver low-voltage direct current (DC) power.

Active PoE

Active PoE is a type of PoE that requires a negotiation process between the power sourcing equipment (PSE) and the powered device (PD) to determine the power requirements. This negotiation allows the PSE to deliver the precise amount of power needed by the PD, ensuring optimal power delivery and compatibility. Active PoE is typically used in higher-power applications, such as pan-tilt-zoom cameras, Wi-Fi access points, and video conferencing systems.

Passive PoE

Passive PoE, on the other hand, does not involve a negotiation process between the PSE and PD. Instead, power is continuously supplied to the PD, regardless of its power requirements. This can lead to compatibility issues if the PD is not designed to handle the power delivered. Passive PoE is commonly found in lower-power applications, such as IP phones, basic security cameras, and small-scale IoT devices.

PoE Input vs PoE Output

Routers may support PoE input or output. Input means that it can use PoE to power the router itself. Output means that it can power external devices like IP phones, Ethernet switches, or WiFi access points. The PoE output capability of a switch or injector is usually defined by the PoE standard it supports (such as IEEE 802.3af, 802.3at, or 802.3bt). This determines the maximum amount of power that can be delivered. It’s important to note that devices can simultaneously act as PoE input and PoE output. For example, a PoE switch can receive power from a higher-level power source and distribute it to connected PDs. This makes it both a PoE input and a PoE output device.

Common PoE Specifications to Know

  • PoE Standards: The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) has defined various PoE standards, including IEEE 802.3af, IEEE 802.3at, and IEEE 802.3bt. These standards specify the power levels and protocols for PoE, ensuring interoperability between PoE devices from different manufacturers.
  • Power Budget: The power budget refers to the maximum power that a PoE switch or injector can supply to connected PDs. It’s important to consider the power requirements of your devices and ensure that the power budget of your PoE infrastructure can accommodate them.
  • Maximum Power Delivery: PoE standards define the maximum power that can be delivered to a single PD. For example, IEEE 802.3af (PoE) can deliver up to 15.4 watts, IEEE 802.3at (PoE+) can deliver up to 30 watts, and IEEE 802.3bt (PoE++) can deliver up to 60 or 100 watts depending on the implementation.
  • Cable Length and Quality: Ethernet cable length and quality can affect PoE performance. Longer cable runs or lower quality cables may experience voltage drop, reducing power delivery. It’s advisable to use high-quality Ethernet cables suitable for PoE applications and consider the maximum cable length supported by your PoE devices.
  • PoE Classes: PoE devices are categorized into different classes (0-8) based on their power requirements. The class is determined by the amount of power needed by the PD. Understanding the class of your devices is essential when planning your PoE deployment.

PoE: Empowering Networks with Simplicity, Flexibility, and Reliability

Power over Ethernet (PoE) has become an indispensable technology in modern network deployments, revolutionizing the way power and data are delivered to network devices. By integrating power delivery and data transmission over a single cable, PoE offers numerous benefits that greatly enhance network infrastructure.

With PoE, you have a simplified setup. There’s no need for separate power cords or electrical outlets, reducing clutter and streamlining the setup process. This not only saves time and effort but also allows for greater flexibility in device placement. Moreover, PoE offers increased flexibility in network management. Power can be centrally controlled and managed through the PoE switch or injector, enabling remote power management and monitoring. This allows network administrators to easily power cycle devices, remotely troubleshoot power-related issues, and optimize power distribution to meet the demands of the network.

Understanding the options of active and passive PoE, as well as being familiar with common PoE specifications, empowers organizations to make informed decisions when implementing PoE infrastructure. Knowing the specific PoE standards, power budgets, cable length limitations, and device classes helps in planning and designing a PoE network that meets the requirements of the devices being powered.

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How do I connect to the internet between two buildings?

The Long Range WiFi Bridge System is a product that so many can take advantage of whether it be for personal or professional use. 

As working from home and continuing education from home continue to become a new norm – many have found that this is a solution to assist in making it easier to do successfully without having issues due to the location or poor WiFi signal. This is specifically useful when you are in need of an Ethernet connection, in a location that does not currently support that. 

  • This system gives you the option of reaping the benefits of Ethernet in location 2 like you have in the main location(where you router is setup) without having to go down the path of working with a company to:
    • Dig up a trench
    • Run Cable
    • Having holes cut/drilled out in the walls for new entry points for ethernet ports. 

Product Highlights:

  1. The Long Range P2P Wireless Ethernet Bridge is built to be waterproof and dustproof
  2. It’s dependable even in a harsh environment
  3. Delivers Long and short range point to point links
  4. Supports a wide range of outdoor applications
  5. Links two networks together so that files can be shared on the Internet.

Use Case: 

The main router is setup in office building 1, and you are in need of a better signal in office building 2.

How It Works:

  1. You would need to connect one of the kit’s antennas to your main router in building 1 via an ethernet cable (Power Is Required). 
    1. This is mounted either in a window or outside the home, but pointed in the direction of building 2. 
  2. The other antenna mounts at building 2 and must connect via Ethernet to another Router, WiFi Access Point, or Ethernet Switch – depending on what’s needed to connect at the building. 
  3. This antenna points back to the antenna in building 1.
  4. Here is a video that also demonstrates how this system works! 

The biggest benefit of doing this is not having to run any cabling to the second location in order to create a bridged network.  You may ask “Why not a WiFi Repeater?,” but that type of solution may not work in this case.

Have questions about the Long Range WiFi Bridge System? Contact us today!

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