What Type 4 Devices Can Power over Ethernet (PoE) Power?
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Originally posted on: https://versatek.com/what-type-4-devices-can-power-over-ethernet-poe-power/
Different technologies speak different languages, and when they overlap, it’s easy for things to get lost in translation. What was obvious when a particular technology emerged can easily become murky after decades of use. When we get lost in the jargon, sometimes it’s helpful to go back to the original concepts that gave rise to all the terminology. For example, what is a Type 4 PoE device, and how do these devices impact computer networks?
To understand the meaning of the concept of a ‘Type 4 PoE device’, we need to know the following:
- What are Type 4 devices?
- What is Ethernet?
- What is Power over Ethernet (PoE)?
And finally, why is using PoE power technology important?
What is a Type 4 Device?
Device classes were created to facilitate power management. In a PoE environment, power source equipment (PSE) negotiates with a powered device (PD) to determine the maximum power it can send. If the device is a Class 5 but the PSE is a Class 6, the PSE knows to send no more than 40 watts, even though the PSE can support devices requiring up to 51 watts. The correlation between device classes and PoE device types is shown below:
A Type 4 device includes Class 7 and 8 devices, which require up to 62 W and 73 W, respectively. Type 4 devices include video conferencing equipment, multi-radio wireless access points, access control systems, laptops, and flat-screen TVs. They require an Ethernet connection to connect to a local area network (LAN).
What is Ethernet?
Ethernet has been around for over 50 years. Early Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineering standards (IEEE 802.3) defined how eight copper wires should be configured for data transmission using this technology. Over time, IEEE released multiple 802.3 standards that set maximum transmission rates at a specific distance and frequency. The following are the most common Ethernet standards implemented in twisted pair cables.
Type 4 devices require at least a Cat 5 Ethernet cable. A Cat 6a may be a better choice for commercial installations where faster transfer rates are required.
What is PoE?
Power over Ethernet technology sends power and data across a single Ethernet cable. The IEEE maintains PoE standards as a subcategory of Ethernet standards. PoE standards are set as follows:
Network administrators select the appropriate power-sourcing equipment based on the Type 4 device’s power requirements and the network speed.
Understanding PoE Type 4 Devices
Suppose an organization wants to deploy IP-based security cameras with pan and tilt capabilities and high-resolution video (4k) for improved security of a worksite. The company plans to use PoE technology to reduce the cost of running electrical wires to remote locations. The existing network uses Cat 5e and 6a Ethernet cables.
As IT experts begin researching different security camera products, they should make sure to prioritize power and data requirements. A high-speed, high-definition recording camera can require as much as 60 watts of power and transmit gigabytes of data per day. With a power requirement of 60 W, we know that this camera would be considered a Type 4 device. The Ethernet cable used to connect it should be at least a Cat 6a cable, capable of providing multi-gigabit support. The company should implement a PoE switch that can meet IEEE 802.3bt standards for Type 4 devices needing gigabits for data transfer.
Knowing that Type 4 devices require up to 71 watts of power helps network managers determine which PoE power-sourcing equipment to purchase. Understanding the correlation between Ethernet cables and PoE equipment makes it easier to select network-compatible equipment.
Why PoE Power is the Future
As commercial building owners explore sustainable ways to reduce costs, IT departments must comprehensively understand how Type 4 devices can impact network performance. PoE technology and Type 4 devices are already being used to:
- Power alarm systems.
- Control elevator access.
- Secure remote locations.
- Power IP security camera systems.
- Link environmental sensors.
- Display digital signage.
- Connect building automation systems.
- Power smart lighting devices.
- Facilitate video conferencing.
All of these types of systems consume network resources that can impact performance. Understanding the relationships between Type 4 devices, Ethernet cables, and PoE technology can simplify the process of implementing new technologies. Grasping how these technologies interrelate helps technical personnel existing resources and find more environmentally friendly solutions.
Sustainability
Sustainability is central to smart building design. The entire goal of smart buildings is to use technology to optimize resources and improve occupant experiences. Smart buildings rely on networks of connected systems that deliver data to a centralized building automation system. This system then uses that information to turn off lights, raise window shades, and better secure the building. PoE technology powers all these remote devices via one Ethernet cable, making deployment more cost-effective and energy-efficient.
Innovation
Freed from the usual constraints of power availability, architects and engineers can create innovative designs that minimize energy consumption, maximize human comfort, and reduce building and maintenance costs. For example, PoE-powered lighting can brighten a dark room when motion sensors are activated, resulting in added security and cost savings.
Adaptability
Trained network personnel can deploy PoE-powered devices themselves without needing an electrician. This means IT departments can install or relocate Type 4 devices quickly. Adding more security cameras or installing an access control card reader is no more complicated than adding a new printer to the network. By understanding how technologies work together, network administrators can minimize any compatibility issues during installation.
Versa Technologies is a reliable source of Power over Ethernet equipment. Our quality products adhere to IEEE 802.3 standards to ensure compatibility with PoE-enabled Type 4 devices and Ethernet standard cabling.
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