Top 4 Factors for PoE Network Infrastructure Design
It’s hard to imagine that today’s enterprise network began with just a server, a few workstations, a printer, and a voice-over-internet phone (VoIP). As companies thrived, networks grew. When one business acquired another, the network came too. In those days, whenever a business’s location changed, its connectivity would be defined by its new physical environment. Trying to maximize network capabilities was always a challenge.
Today’s advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, require high-speed networks that produce real-time results. The Internet of Things (IoT) requires connectivity to collect and share data from the network’s edge. For many large and mid-sized businesses, networks are on-premise and in the cloud. Hybrid configurations demand a level of integration that traditional infrastructures struggle to provide.
Redesigning the enterprise network has become a necessity. Organizations must look at their infrastructure holistically to ensure that the physical, virtual, and logical design work together for optimum performance. Many consider Power over Ethernet (PoE) technologies a cost-effective way to modernize their PoE network infrastructure.
Why Use Power over Ethernet?
PoE technologies allow transmitting power and data over a single Ethernet cable. A PoE power source, such as a switch, connects to the network and PoE-enabled devices. Data flows through the system, but the end device, such as an LED lighting or digital display, receives power from the PoE power source. The end device does not require separate electrical access, making it ideal for locations where traditional electrical connectivity may be difficult or impossible.
The industrial ethernet market continues to grow as businesses demand faster transmission speeds, and projections show that in 2023, the industry grew to $32.01 billion and will continue to grow to $36.56 billion in 2024. By 2028, the projected market will be $63.91 billion, with a compound annual growth rate of 15%. Fueled by the growing ethernet market, PoE solutions are expected to reach $1.9 billion by 2030.
As more companies take a holistic approach to their network infrastructure, PoE technologies will play a crucial role. Organizations can deploy devices in locations that traditionally were unavailable, reduce electrical complexity, and exercise more control over edge devices. However, building the PoE networks of tomorrow requires careful planning today.
Building a PoE Network Infrastructure
Before implementing a PoE infrastructure, network architects should assess their current network and identify future needs. Specifically, the following PoE-related factors:
● Ethernet cables.
● PoE Devices.
● Power requirements.
Before deciding on specific PoE-enabled devices, network engineers must ensure their ethernet infrastructure can meet requirements and determine their power requirements.
Ethernet Cables
Cat 5 or 5e were the go-to cables for Ethernet networks for decades, but today’s networks are deploying Cat 6, 6a, and 8. Each category defines recommended cable lengths to ensure maximum performance. For example,
● Cat 5 operates at 100 MHz and can deliver 100 Mbps up to 328 feet. Cat 5e has the same length and power capabilities but can provide up to 1 Gbps of data.
● Cat 6 operates at 250 MHz and can transmit up to 1 Gbps at 328 feet. The Cat 6a can transmit 10 Gbps up to 121 feet.
● Cat 8 provides a significant jump in capabilities. It operates at 2000 MHz and transmits up to 40 Gbps of data at a maximum length of 98 feet.
Deciding on the category of Ethernet cable to be used is the first step in building a PoE network infrastructure. Extending cable lengths beyond the recommended distance can result in a drop in power, impacting the performance of PoE-enabled devices.
PoE Devices
PoE-enabled devices have expanded beyond the original IP cameras and phones. They can now support digital signage, point-of-sale, LED lighting, and access control systems. Today, PoE technology can power devices requiring up to 100 W—far beyond the original 15 W.
With more power, organizations can fully take advantage of IoT capabilities. Environmental sensors can gather precise information. Point-of-sale devices can offer more customer-centric features, and video can be displayed on high-resolution monitors.
Network designers should determine what devices they plan to deploy and the associated power requirements. They’ll also need to look at data transfer requirements to ensure that the PoE-enabled endpoint has the power and speed necessary to meet projected demands.
Finally, network managers should check all PoE equipment to ensure it meets IEEE standards. The Institute of Electronics and Electrical Engineers (IEEE) publishes the recognized Ethernet and PoE technologies standards. Purchasing equipment that adheres to these standards means interoperability and backward compatibility. Nonstandard equipment may not be supported in every environment.
Power Calculations
Knowing each device’s power requirements will allow network engineers to calculate the amount needed to drive them. Power sources such as injectors or switches must have sufficient capacity to support connected devices. If a PoE switch has a power budget of 370 W, it has the capacity for up to 24 15W or 12 30W devices.
Managed PoE switches can monitor power consumption at the connected endpoints, identifying critical devices while ensuring power never drops below a pre-established threshold. The switch can modulate power over its ports to maintain efficient power usage without impacting performance. It’s important to note that distance also plays a role in calculating power requirements. Long cable runs can cause power losses as the current travels further away from its source.
Resilience
Reliable network operation requires redundancy plans. Network architects should identify the mission-critical components and ensure they continue operating, whether through disaster recovery or business continuity plans. PoE devices can continue to operate during a power outage if an uninterruptible power source (UPS) is available.
Security also plays a role in system resilience. Robust physical and virtual security measures minimize the risks associated with cybercrime. Defending against unauthorized access to PoE devices protects networks from compromise.
System monitoring acts as the frontline of any resilient system. Deploying network monitoring tools that can assess changes in power consumption or data transmissions can alert network administrators to potential concerns before they impact network performance. It can reduce bottlenecks and highlight areas that may require upgrades.
Building a resilient PoE network infrastructure requires careful analysis of the devices’ power needs. This step means examining connected Ethernet technology to ensure that the cabling delivers optimal network performance. With careful planning, network architects can approach network design holistically for a more robust enterprise network.
Versa Technology is an industry leader in PoE solutions. Versa has the technology to help build a PoE network infrastructure that supports an enterprise network, from switches and injectors to splitters and extenders.