The evolution of IP technology has not only revolutionized the communications space, it has redefined “communication,” at least as far as the conventional verbal or text-based communications methods go — “a verbal or written message,” according to Webster’s Dictionary.

 

However, an alternate definition, “the technology of the transmission of information,” is much more accurate today. Indeed, information is now sent via IP networks to and from a growing number of devices, including phones and PCs, but also a new breed of IP devices, including security cameras, wall clocks, wireless APs, security scanners, intercoms, and more.

 

The emergence of a growing number of IP-based devices, while offering new and increasingly flexible business opportunities, also creates an inherent need to power these electronic devices. Certainly, many, such as IP deskphones, can be plugged into traditional power outlets, though that adds yet another unsightly cable that runs across desks.   On the other hand, for many newer devices, it poses a greater challenge, as walls, ceilings, and other areas are not necessarily wired for power.

 

However, because each of these devices needs an Ethernet connection to communicate across the LAN, instead of running power to each of these locations, why not use PoE (Power over Ethernet) to power them. In addition to minimizing the number of cables, it also limits costs associated with running additional electrical lines to various locations.

 

Indeed, PoE may be as important a development in networking technology as any. It allows flexibility and simplicity in design and deployment of IP devices; it simplifies product design, thus cutting production costs; and with the low power consumption of PoE devices, it cuts utility costs and reduces energy consumption.

 

Of course, one complication to deploying PoE capable endpoints is businesses need a PoE capable Ethernet switch for several thousand dollars, which can be a deterrent for many SMBs. 

 

At INTERNET TELEPHONY Conference & EXPO in Miami last week, Fremont, California-based LAN Power Systems showed off its alternative solution, which allows small and mid-size businesses to benefit from PoE technology without having to replace their non-PoE switches. 

 

LAN Power’s modular midspan power hubs use standard patch cables to connect standard Ethernet switches to their respective endpoint, adding PoE capability to the switches. The 4- and 8-port modules exceed current 802.3af PoE standards, ensuring their adaptability into future revisions.

 

The modules can be placed in either a single-slot or 3-slot chassis, providing up to 24 PoE ports in a single component. In addition, because of their modular design, should one of the modules fail, it can easily be replaced in seconds without having to disassemble the entire component. By having a spare module handy, customers are able to limit device downtime to minutes rather than hours or even days.

 

For one-off implementations, or portable solutions, LAN Power also offers a Single Port PoE Injector, adding a mobility element to PoE products.

 

With LAN Power’s products, SMBs not only have an easy way to deploy PoE endpoints, but they can do it at a substantial cost savings to purchasing new switches — all while promoting “greenness” in the process.