C

About PoE (Power over Ethernet)

This appendix provides an overview of Power over Ethernet Technology and how it is implemented in relation to the 7G4285‐49 and 7G4205‐72 DFE modules.

Overview

Power over Ethernet (PoE) refers to the ability to provide operational power through the same Ethernet cabling to a PD (powered device) connected to a data network. Modern Ethernet implementations employ differential signals over twisted pair cables. This requires a minimum of two twisted pairs for a single physical link. Both ends of the cable are isolated with transformers blocking any DC or common mode voltage on the signal pair. PoE exploits this fact by using two twisted pairs as the two conductors to supply a direct current. One pair carries the power supply current and the other pair provides a path for the return current. While several proprietary legacy implementations of PoE have been deployed by LAN equipment vendors, in 2003 the IEEE published the IEEE 802.3af‐2003 specification, which is part of the 802.3 suite of standards.

The 7G4285‐49 and 7G4205‐72 are fully compliant with the IEEE 802.3af standard. They support the standard resistor based detection method, as well as AC disconnect capability. The 7G4285‐49 and 7G4205‐72 are also capable of supplying the maximum specified current to all ports simultaneously.

Each PD has a PDC (Powered Device Classification) that is transmitted to the DFE module for power management purposes. Table C‐1 lists the classifications and the associated power ranges.

Table C-1 Powered Device Classifications

Class

Usage

PD Maximum Power Range Usage

 

 

 

0

Default

0.44 to 12.95 Watts

 

 

 

1

Optional

0.44 to 3.84 Watts

 

 

 

2

Optional

3.84 to 6.49 Watts

 

 

 

3

Optional

6.49 to 12.95 Watts

 

 

 

4

Not Allowed

Reserved for Future Use

 

 

 

DFE-Platinum Series Hardware Installation Guide C-1

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Enterasys Networks 7G4285-49, 7G4205-72 manual About PoE Power over Ethernet, Overview