Power over Ethernet

Allied Telesis AT-PC232/POE manual Power over Ethernet

Chapter 1: Overview

The twisted pair port on the AT-PC232/POE Media Converter features Power over Ethernet (PoE). PoE is a mechanism for supplying power to network devices over the same twisted pair cables used to carry network traffic. This feature can simplify network installation and maintenance by allowing you to use the switch as a central power source for other network devices.

A device that receives its power over an Ethernet cable is called a powered device (PD). Examples of such devices can be wireless access points, IP telephones, web cams, and Ethernet switches.

There are several advantages that the PoE feature of the AT-PC232/POE Media Converter adds to the installation and maintenance of your network. First, because the media converter acts as the power source for the powered device, adding an uninterruptible power source (UPS) to the media converter increases the protection not just to the media converter itself from possible power source problems but also to the powered device connected to it. This can increase the reliability of your network by minimizing the impact to network operations from a power failure.

PoE can also simplify the installation of your network. A frequent issue in selecting a location for a network device is whether there is a power source nearby. This often limits equipment placement or requires the added cost and time of having additional electrical sources installed. With PoE, you can install PoE-compatible network equipment wherever they are needed without having to worry about whether they are near a power source.

The media converter can automatically determine whether or not a device connected to its port is a powered device. A powered device has a signature resistor or capacitor that the media converter can detect over the Ethernet cabling. If the resistor or capacitor is present, the media converter assumes that the device is a powered device.

The twisted pair port on the AT-PC232/POE Media Converter can supply up to 15.4 watts of power, while at the same time furnishing standard 10/100 Mbps Ethernet functionality. If the twisted pair port is connected to a network node that is not a powered device, it functions as a regular Ethernet port without PoE. The PoE feature remains enabled on the port but no power is delivered to the device.

AT-PC232/POE specifications

Allied Telesis AT-PC232/POE is a versatile and robust power-over-Ethernet (PoE) switch that effectively meets the needs of small to medium-sized networks. Designed for user-friendly operation and scalability, this switch caters to the increasing demand for power and data connectivity in various environments, from small offices to larger enterprise applications.

One of the main features of the AT-PC232/POE is its capability to deliver both data and electrical power over a single Ethernet cable. This functionality simplifies installations of network devices such as IP cameras, VoIP phones, and wireless access points, reducing cabling costs and improving site aesthetics. The switch can supply up to 15.4 watts of power per port, adhering to the IEEE 802.3af PoE standard. This enables straightforward connection to devices without needing additional power sources, making it a convenient choice for businesses looking to streamline their operational efficiency.

In terms of design, the AT-PC232/POE is compact and rack-mountable, allowing for efficient use of space in server rooms and network closets. Its fanless operation ensures quiet performance, making it suitable for noise-sensitive environments. The switch is also equipped with LED indicators that provide at-a-glance updates on power status, network activity, and port statistics.

The AT-PC232/POE utilizes advanced networking technologies such as VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network) support and QoS (Quality of Service). VLAN support allows network administrators to segment network traffic for better performance and security, while QoS capabilities prioritize critical data packets, ensuring that important applications such as video conferencing and VoIP operate smoothly without interruption.

Another significant characteristic of this switch is its management capabilities. Allied Telesis provides a web-based graphical user interface (GUI) for easy configuration and monitoring, allowing administrators to quickly set up networks and troubleshoot issues. Security features such as port security and access control lists help prevent unauthorized access and ensure that the network remains secure.

In summary, the Allied Telesis AT-PC232/POE switch combines efficient power delivery with sophisticated networking features, making it an excellent choice for businesses looking to enhance their network infrastructure. Its compact design, ease of use, and management capabilities position it as a reliable solution for modern networking demands.