TECHZONE
Enhanced PoE standard for greater functionality
Since 2003, the Power over Ethernet (PoE) standard, IEEE Std 802.3af-2003 DTE power via MDI, has significantly reduced the cost and complexity of installing devices such as IP security cameras, Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) and Wireless Access Points, on network infrastructures.
At the time of its introduction, the 12.95 watts of power afforded by IEEE Std 802.3af was adequate for the existing IP technology. Now, however, in light of increasing customer demand for more sophisticated devices on the network, an enhanced standard for PoE is being developed.

The IEEE P802.3at DTE Power Enhancements project, or PoE+ as it’s commonly known, will offer at least 30 watts of power to enable greater functionality for existing PoE devices, as well as driving new applications.       

Due to be ratified towards the end of 2008, the new specification will meet a series of objectives, including: 

  • Providing a minimum of 30W
  • Adding support for Gigabit Ethernet Midspan PSEs
  • Following the power safety rules and limitations relevant to the PoE standard
  • Being backward-compatible with the PoE standard
  • Enhancing power management capabilities

PoE+ will give security cameras the capability to pan, tilt and zoom, while IP-video phones will be able to stream colour video with ease. Other high-powered devices such as WiMAX transmitters, information kiosks, laptops, RFID scanners, PC terminals and thin clients, will also be supportable with the new PoE+ specification.

Business benefits that can save you money 

The greater functionality afforded to thin client working is sure to benefit heavy industry and the pharmaceutical market. Because they don’t have fans and AC outlets, thin clients offer simple maintenance, security, ease of installation and in some cases reduced cost of ownership.

And in retail, where there may be dozens of RFID readers in a single store, PoE+ could help lower deployment costs by reducing the need for cabling and multiple power points. 

As new PoE+ device applications emerge, other markets are sure to take advantage of its ability to increase functionality, help reduce costs and reduce power waste.

3Com is building investment protection into its Enterprise Class switches to provide a future path to the PoE+ specification. Products such as the award-winning 5500G range will be fully upgradable to a future PoE+ with a simple PSU exchange, helping to protect our customers’ investment and ensure a seamless migration.