An Intro to Power over Ethernet Systems
- 1. Light Shed Series, 001 Power over Ethernet
- 2. What is Power over Ethernet PoE is a term for systems which pass both electric power and data on twisted pair Ethernet cabling. PoE increases connectivity. Poe increases efficiency. PoE increases productivity.
- 3. What’s in our rig? 1. Control Computer 2. Regulated Power Supply 3. PoE Switch 4. Ethernet Cable 5. Z-max Connectors 6. Powered Devices 7. Controllers & Sensors 8. Cable Management Basics of Power over Ethernet (PoE) with Encompass AV
- 4. Control Computer This is a PC computer dedicated to administering the power over Ethernet (PoE) network. The control computer enables users to configure a PoE system’s functionality and automate processes. The control computer empowers users with actable information received in real time from sensors and monitors throughout the system. The specified configuration — or what you see on the screen and what it does — will change depending on which devices are integrated across the network.
- 5. Ethernet Cable Ethernet cable makes power over Ethernet (PoE) possible. Before it was able to shuffle around power, Ethernet cable was already a popular type of network cable used to connect devices in wired, local area networks. Different types of Ethernet cables have different capabilities. A certain type of Ethernet cable will be more suited to a situation than another. In a PoE system, it is common to see Cat5 and Cat6 Ethernet cables.
- 6. Z-MAX 6A Shielded Connector This is a top of the line Ethernet connector that we add to all our Ethernet cables in our PoE system. The Z-MAX is a PoE specialty connector. It is the industry’s fastest termination line and prevents alien crosstalk to protect your equipment and your signal.
- 7. Regulated Power Supply Encompass AV takes extra precautions by including a regulated power supply to condition AC power and protect against surges. It also provides a minor backup battery. It is common to integrate the regulated power supply into a rack for easy access.
- 8. PoE Switch 1. Transferring electrical power - the switch takes in AC power, converts it to DC power, and distributes it to ports. 2. Transferring data - The switch passes information back and forth between the network server and the PoE devices. The negotiation of power and data take place through the switch’s ports. Switches have multiple ports, but they are limited by how much power they may pass. This is the hub of a power over Ethernet system, and it manages the following processes:
- 9. PoE Powered Devices PoE powered devices are electronics and appliances enabled to receive power and data over one cable plugged into one port. There is a lot of new and exciting development in this area. Encompass AV is currently focused on commercial solutions like overhead lighting, wireless access points, enhanced security systems, VoIP communication, and powering digital signage. Some of PoE devices: ● Overhead lighting ● VoIP phones ● Intercom systems ● Access control ● Monitoring systems ● Point of sale ● Cameras
- 10. Sensors Sensors communicate information about an area so PoE devices and fixtures can be reactive to their environment. Examples of Sensors: ● Motion ● Light ● Temperature ● Humidity PoE carries low-voltage power, which is safer than high-voltage, and it does not require hard conduit. This means cables can be neatly secured with repositionable straps and rings behind the ceiling and walls. Cable Management
- 11. Put it together and what do you get? A smart system of connected devices designed to save you time, money, and carbon guilt. WORK SMARTER NOT HARDER Contact Alex@encompassav.com for more information.
- 12. Next in LLS 002: The Benefits of PoE Lighting