PoE switch (Power over Ethernet switch)

What is a PoE switch (Power over Ethernet switch)?

Designing a network that’s ready to support the explosion of IoT devices and the latest wireless technologies requires special consideration for network capacity, connectivity, performance, and power sourcing needs. PoE is an access layer technology that combines data signals and electrical power into a single Ethernet cable connection to enable a powered device.

A PoE switch eliminates the need for separate data and power cables, providing simplicity, cost savings, and new capabilities that can include:

• Flexible placement for access points and IoT devices without needing nearby electrical outlets.
• Power delivery, management, and prioritization for critical network resources.
• Intelligent monitoring and control for connected devices.

PoE runs over twisted pair cabling (Ethernet), which is prevalent worldwide and can be installed quickly without needing a skilled electrician. Twisted pair cabling is less costly and can be installed in difficult to reach locations where pulling electrical power is not feasible.

Using a PoE switch can also help lower power consumption during idle periods, and, with access to the data signal, status can be monitored, and information shared between a PoE switch and powered device to manage the amount of power delivered to the remote device.

In addition to providing power and data to PoE devices, PoE switches can perform all the same functions of a traditional switch—connecting people, devices, and data across a wired network.

Power over Ethernet (PoE) technology has seen widespread adoption and continue to evolve, driven by the need for simplified network installations, enhanced energy efficiency, and the ability to connect emerging power hungry IoT devices.

The latest standard for PoE technology is the IEEE 802.3bt standard. This standard makes it possible for PoE switches to deliver and powered devices to safely operate above the previous 30 Watts of PoE power per connection, enabling support for up to 60 and even 90 Watts of PoE power.

HPE Aruba Networking consistently delivers standards-compliant, rather than proprietary, solutions to the marketplace. This enables customer confidence in the design and deployment of a high power PoE solution from HPE Aruba Networking. To meet the needs of large enterprises to SMBs, HPE Aruba Networking CX switches support a range of PoE power and PoE power budgets.

HPE Aruba Networking switches with IEEE 802.3bt (Class 8) provide up to 90 Watts to all standards-compatible powered devices, which means your infrastructure investment will provide value into the future as new devices and applications come to market.

As further proof of our commitment to industry standards, HPE Aruba Networking switches are among the first products to be listed on the Ethernet Alliance (EA) Certified PoE Product Registry, which helps ensure reliable network interoperability.

HPE Aruba Networking CX Switches connect, protect, and simplify your network, bridging users, applications, and mission critical data. With intuitive tools and built-in analytics, CX switches cut the complexity of IT, reduce time spent troubleshooting, and create a foundation for new technologies and future business.

• Access and Aggregation Switches.
• Core and Data Center Switches.
• Ruggedized Switches.