What's Next for the Future of PoE?

Power over Ethernet (PoE) commands a good bit of attention in our industry, and for good reason. The trend shows us that as more and more devices continue to be powered over communications cabling, and IP convergence advances, PoE will too. With more power comes higher operating temperatures, so questions arise: What are the safety limitations due to heat generation, especially in large cable bundles? And most importantly, what is the best way to ensure safe, effective system operation? Berk-Tek explores the answers to these questions and more, below. 

The Future of PoE - More Power is Coming

In response to the growing adoption of PoE, the IEEE is working on a new technology that will allow up to higher power delivery over twisted-pair communication cabling. The new 802.3bt technology – anticipated for release by 2018 – will support more than a three-fold increase in power (100W with Type IV) and a 10-fold increase in data transmission over structured cabling. Learn more about 802.3bt on Berk-Tek's website.

The Low-Down on LP

LP (Limited Power) is an optional designation that was developed by UL in response to concerns about excessive heat rise with power levels in excess of 60W. The optional LP designation indicates that a cable has been evaluated by UL to carry the marked current in any reasonable worst-case installation without exceeding the temperature rating of the cable. However, given that the LP testing performed by UL is performed under very specific installation constraints which do not represent real-world installation conditions, is it really the best way to ensure a safe and effective system operation? Click here to download the TEK Brief: LP Cabling: Frequently Asked Questions. 

Webinar opportunity:

What You REALLY Need to Know About LP Join us on November 10 at 11AM EST to learn everything about the optional LP designation. Register now.

To learn more, visit us online or contact your local Accu-Tech representative.