PoE: What are the Differences Between PoE, PoE+ and PoE++ ?

What is PoE?

PoE (Power over Ethernet) is a networking technology that can transmit both data and power over the same LAN (Local Area Network) Ethernet cable. With the use of Power over Ethernet technology, PSE (Power Sourcing Equipment) can provide data connection and electric power to terminal PDs (Powered Devices) including wireless AP (Access Points), RFID readers, IP cameras, VoIP phones, alarm systems and more through standard network cables. Hence, it helps to deliver power and data easily to multiple devices without the need to deploy additional electrical wiring, electric infrastructure and power outlets at every end point.

What are the differences between PoE, PoE+ and PoE++ ?

---

PoE was firstly defined with the 802.3af standard by the IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) in 2013. The IEEE 802.3af standard PoE requires a PSE to transit up to 15.4W PoE wattage without any data interruption over two of the four twisted pairs in 10/100/1000BASE-T Ethernet cabling. The IEEE 802.3af PoE is mainly used to support low power devices such as IP phones or two-antennas wireless AP.

---

As IoT, edge and cloud computing technology advanced, terminal PDs are now required to accomplish more with higher power consumption and wattage. For increasing PD products in the market, 12.95W of power supply is no longer enough. Hence, in 2009, PoE+ technology is released with a new standard IEEE 802.3at. It can be considered as an upgrade of PoE technology. Although supplying power through two out of four twisted pairs like the PoE, the PoE+ can deliver up to 30W power to PD with additional power class. It is often applied in networks with six-antenna wireless AP, or HD surveillance systems and cameras. Some application scenarios include intelligent transportation systems and smart factories.

---

To power a wider range of devices and applications, the latest PoE++ technology is compliant with IEEE 802.3bt standard. The PoE++ can be classified into two types: Type 3 and Type 4. Type 3 enables two or all four twisted pairs in a copper cable to supplies up to 60W power, while Type 4 can deliver up to 100W power over four twisted pairs in an Ethernet cable. The PoE++ is designed to deliver higher power wattage to high-power-driven PDs such as laptops, Televisions, conferencing systems, LED lighting systems, etc.

---

How to add PoE to an Industrial PC

Since PoE power supply technology involves complicated hardware design, if a general industrial computer wants to gain Power over Ethernet ability, it must modify its motherboard with a lot of costs. Therefore, Cervoz has released modular expansion cards with PoE functionality to upgrade an IPC into a PSE. And helps clients create a wide range of industrial solutions utilizing PoE technology.

Cervoz latest PCIe Ethernet Expansion Card with PoE+ Technology is now available…

We like to make life easier ….

BVM supply a wide and diverse range of Industrial and Embedded Systems.
From Industrial Motherboards, SBCs and Box PCs, to Rack Mount computers and Industrial Panel PCs.

However, if you can’t find a solution that meets your needs from our wide & varied portfolio of standard products, speak to one of our team members around our bespoke design and manufacturing services. We can design a solution from ‘ground up’ – from concept to design – and through to system development and eventual mass production  manufacture.

You can either call us directly on +(0) 1489 780 144 and talk to one of the team | E-mail us at sales@bvmltd.co.uk | Use the contact form on our website