More power through the data network: "Power over Ethernet plus" is coming

New White Paper from R&M gives network planners information about cabling require-ments and risk factors. More electrical energy through data cables: That will be the result of the forthcoming “Power over Ethernet plus” standard (PoEplus). A new White Paper from the Swiss cabling specialists R&M gives information about the consequences and risks of PoEplus.

The IEEE 802.3at standard for PoEplus will allow a power feed of 24 W in data cables. It is planned to be introduced during 2009. Previously, only up to 12.95 W was permitted (IEEE 802.3af). When more electrical energy is fed into the data cable, more heat is generated in the wires. This could endanger the continued operational safety of the network. “The problem of heating can be controlled if the standard is applied consistently” according to R&M. An overview table in the White Paper helps planners and installers to adjust cable runs and to make a careful choice of cabling systems. Under certain conditions, such as in tropical climate zones, particular limitations may apply and shorter cable runs may be necessary.

One other risk is contact degradation. This is because sparks can occur when live connec-tors are unplugged, and these can damage the contact surfaces. This aspect was not addressed during the standardization process for PoEplus. R&M warns: “Because of the unsolved problems, it would be premature to give guarantees for any cabling system operating with PoEplus”.

Regina Good-Engelhardt, R&M Product Manager, states: “Research by R&M indicates that the quality of the connector contacts can be maintained through high grade solutions to the problem. Crucial factors include the characteristics of the contact material, the contact pla-ting, and the contact shape and force”. The results of the research have been presented in a Technical Report co-authored by R&M, which will shortly be published by the IEC SC48B standardization committee.

Power over Ethernet (PoE), the combination of power supply and data transmission in a single cable, is becoming more widespread in its use. Sales of PoE capable devices are increasing at an annual rate of more than 20 percent. For example, PoE can be used to power webcams, wireless LAN antennas, IP telephones, and many other peripheral devices. This eliminates additional cabling, since a separate power supply is no longer needed. The possible applications are multiplied if higher power levels can be supplied using PoEplus. Long-term, the aim is to be able to provide power for devices such as high-performance antennas, videoconferencing equipment, security systems, flat screen displays, and even computers through the LAN connector.

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