The future of networking will largely hinge on the availability of higher data speeds, increased capacities, and the robust power distribution found in 5G technology. Power over Ethernet (PoE) is vital to 5G deployments.
PoE is particularly useful for powering small IP surveillance cameras, wireless access points, VoIP phones, and 5G small cells, providing power and data to connected devices in a network.
What is PoE?
PoE is a technology that supports the simultaneous delivery of power and data to connected devices, both indoors and outdoors, via a single, standard Ethernet cable. Compliant with IEEE standards 802.3af (standard PoE), 802.3at (PoE+), and 802.3bt (PoE++ types 3 and 4), this technology is a low-cost solution for powering connected devices in hard-to-reach or remote areas.
PoE is:
- Flexible
- Scalable
- Efficient
- Reliable
- Cost-effective
- Simplified
PoE streamlines power delivery for an energy-saving solution while freeing device location limitations.
When should PoE be used?
PoE is especially beneficial in situations where running traditional electrical wiring is challenging or expensive. It is an easy, flexible way to install IP cameras, VoIP phones, Wi-Fi access points, and other necessary devices in locations with limited power access.
Some environments where PoE implementation can be especially effective include:
- Outdoor installations
- Remote locations
- Temporary installations
- Ceiling installations
- Historical buildings or buildings with limited electrical availability
By reducing the cables required for network deployment, PoE makes more organized installations possible. PoE also allows centralized monitoring and control of powered devices (PDs), making it easier to manage power consumption and troubleshoot problems.
What is a PoE deployment?
PoE deployment is the process of setting up a network that integrates PoE technology. This process involves planning, installing, configuring, and maintaining the network.
Planning
Planning is the most important step in PoE deployment. Network admins should assess all connected devices’ power requirements and decide how PoE will eventually be integrated. This step should also include determining the appropriate PoE standards and choosing models of switches capable of providing sufficient power to the connected devices.
When planning a PoE network infrastructure, keeping scalability in mind is essential. Think ahead about what future expansion might look like.
Installation
All necessary Ethernet cabling and PoE equipment (such as switches and injectors) are put in place during the installation phase. Network admins physically set up the network and connect PoE-powered devices.
Additional protective equipment may be required depending on the environment, especially for outdoor installations. This equipment could include weatherproof enclosures and surge protection devices.
Configuration
The PoE network is fine-tuned during the configuration stage to ensure optimal performance, power delivery, and security. Device-specific settings like IP camera resolution, VoIP phone extensions, Wi-Fi access point SSID, encryption protocols, and access controls are enabled.
Testing and Maintenance
Testing the new PoE network is critical to ensure all devices receive adequate power and data. As with any network, PoE networks require regular, ongoing maintenance schedules to ensure continuous network reliability.
The testing phase involves:
- Power verification
- Network connectivity
- Performance testing
- Security testing
Regular inspection and preventive maintenance tasks help ensure a PoE network’s reliability and longevity.
PoE deployment is about strategically implementing PoE technology to create an effective, flexible, scalable network. High-quality Cat5e, Cat6, and Cat6AE Ethernet cables ensure reliable power and data transmission.
Can PoE be used in 5G deployments?
5G networks are fluid systems with frequently changing requirements. Enabling a wide range of applications, including IoT, 5G networks require that power be made available for numerous devices across disparate locations. With the advantages of high bandwidth and throughput, 5G construction can accelerate worldwide. As networks expand, the number of connected devices will undoubtedly increase.
PoE is ideal for 5G deployments. It provides a convenient way to power many devices in remote locations, as needed by 5G-enabled applications. PoE also has the flexibility to adapt to shifting demands, without costly electrical wiring and installation.
In 5G deployments, PoE is particularly beneficial for powering small cell base stations, often placed where it can be difficult to access traditional power sources.
What is a Small Cell?
A small cell is a low-powered short-range cellular base station designed to supplement traditional, high-powered “macro” cell towers. Small cell deployments enhance cellular network coverage and capacity by providing high-quality, localized signals in densely populated areas. These devices help deliver faster speeds to users by offloading traffic to fill in the gaps between larger cell towers.
Small cell towers improve service quality by supplementing existing networks. They are especially effective in areas with poor signal strength, like busy streets or locations with many tall buildings. They can be installed indoors or outdoors, on buildings, streetlights, or other structures to extend network reach.
Crucial for supporting the high data demands of 5G technology, small cells are paving the way for higher speeds. They also consume less power due to their smaller individual coverage area.
A PoE Switch for 5G Deployments
5G networks promise faster speeds, lower latency, and increased capacity, representing a significant leap forward in telecomm technology. But, deploying 5G networks presents unique power distribution challenges.
TheH40-044-91-250 Unmanaged Industrial PoE switch from Versa Technology offers a flexible and efficient solution for powering 5G infrastructure. Designed for outdoor 5G deployments, this switch features four 10/100/1000T-BASE ports and supports 30W of 802.3at PoE power/90W of 802.3bt PoE power. With two additional Gigabit copper ports and two extra SFP fiber slots for uplink, the switch has a total power budget of 250W.
Key features of the H40-044-91-250 include:
- -40ºC to 65ºC (-40ºF to 149ºF) Operating Temperature
- -40ºC to 85ºC (-40ºC to 185ºF) Storage Temperature
- IP67 Weather Rating
- 16 Gbps Switching Capacity
- 11.904 Mpps Forwarding Capacity
- 6KV Surge Protection per PoE port
- 40KV Surge Protection for AC power
- IK10 Vandal Proof
- 100~240VAC Input Voltage
With hardened construction, the H40-044-91-250 ensures operation in harsh weather conditions. It meets the demand of even some of the most power-hungry PoE PDs, like HD IP surveillance applications, outdoor PoE IP cameras, PoE wireless access points, and many others. This unmanaged industrial PoE switch is classified as easy-to-install power source equipment (PSE).
