How Power over Ethernet Feeds Data-Hungry Applications

The world generates so much data daily that quantifying it would be almost meaningless. Does anyone know what 180 zettabytes would look like if one zettabyte equals the number of grains of sand on all the world’s beaches? Even though only 2% of this data is consumed and stored- that’s a lot of sand. Network professionals tasked with maintaining systems that can handle such volumes of data volume are constantly struggling to meet demand. Companies dealing with this volume need networks that can acquire and transmit new data quickly. They need high-speed computers to process that data and a configuration that retrieves and delivers data-driven information at Internet speed. No pressure, right? While Power over Ethernet (PoE) technology can’t solve every network challenge, it can make life less stressful. By transmitting power and data over a single Ethernet cable, PoE provides flexibility. Network personnel can install PoE equipment themselves without an electrician by simply connecting the PoE-enabled device to the local area network (LAN), thus saving their company precious time and money. 

Let’s look at how PoE can help IT departments deliver more data faster.

Feeding Data-Hungry Applications

Artificial intelligence (AI), large language models (LLM), and data analytics are examples of data-hungry applications that can be deployed across an enterprise. For example, a building automation system (BAS) may use AI to identify and correct fluctuations in room temperatures. The BAS may feed operating data to applications that analyze this information to highlight spending patterns or monthly trends. 

Whether sending or receiving data, PoE technology works with the latest Ethernet technology to provide gigabit speeds in multiple environments.

PoE Lighting

Power over ethernet lighting is often one part of a more extensive system that combines sensors, automated window shades, and heating and cooling systems to manage energy consumption while maintaining a comfortable environment for a building’s occupants. Smart lighting systems can work with low-voltage LED lights to significantly reduce energy consumption compared to other lighting options.

Smart buildings utilize PoE lighting to reduce carbon footprints since conduit or high-voltage copper wiring isn’t needed. Since extra power sources are unnecessary, construction costs decrease, and implementation speeds up, saving time and money. These lighting systems can feed data to a centralized system that then uses it to turn off lights, lower window shades, and adjust temperature settings based on occupancy levels.

Current PoE standards support 2.5, 5, and 10 Gbps data transmission speeds using 6a Ethernet cables. Using such setups, IT departments can accommodate high-speed Ethernet by extending network connections without relying on external power sources. As needs change and spaces are repurposed, IT departments can move PoE lights as easily as printers.

PoE Display Screens

Digital signage has become something far more valuable than a mere  advertising tool. This technology can now be found in office buildings, convention centers, and outdoor venues. LCD and LED screens powered by PoE technology are already showing up on factory floors, retail stores, and medical facilities.

Hospitals rely on extensive local and wide area networks. Digitized medical equipment and record keeping systems consume network resources at unprecedented rates, and digital signage plays an essential role in the patient experience. Way-finding signage helps patients and staff navigate these large medical campuses. 

Staff lounges equipped with LED displays can provide critical information throughout the day. Screens can provide up-to-date policies and procedures or statistics on admissions, surgeries, and emergency room occupancy. They can even list which physicians are currently on call. With PoE-enabled signage, changes update in real time.

PoE makes it easier to add and remove signage. Conference venues often reconfigure their facilities to match customer requirements. Rather than using old-fashioned sandwich boards, venues can move displays whenever needed by attaching an Ethernet cable. Modern PoE devices comply with the latest IEEE 802.3bt standards and allow data to flow quickly through Ethernet-based networks.

PoE-Enabled IP Security Cameras

PoE-enabled IP security cameras exemplify how cutting-edge digital technology can improve physical security. Even cameras requiring over 70 watts of power can run on PoE. The latest security cameras offer a range of features, such as pan and tilt capabilities, searchable playback, and high-resolution video (4k).

These enhanced capabilities not only require more electricity but also demand greater bandwidth. Depending on the deployment environment, an IP security camera can generate gigabytes of data daily. High-resolution, high-speed, color videos increase the volume of data going through a network, adding to the power and data demands. 

PoE technology allows security professionals to deploy cameras where needed rather than where power is available. Administrators can extend their Ethernet network to place PoE-enabled security cameras. If adequate coverage requires moving cameras, they can be repositioned without modifying electrical wiring. Type 4 devices, including IP security cameras, require the advanced capabilities of PoE technology to provide power and data.

Surviving the Feeding Frenzy

Data comes in from endpoints like sensors on factory floors and commercial buildings. Card readers connected to entry and elevator doors help identify who is inside a building and keep out intruders. Location kiosks on college campuses can track student interest in different activities while offering a convenient way to purchase event tickets.

As the sheer volume of endpoints increases, so does the incoming data. IT departments are charged with getting that data where it needs to be and storing it safely once it reaches its destination. They need temporary locations where raw data can be cleaned. Managing data means allocating resources for data processing and reallocating those resources for storage.

With PoE technology, endpoints can collect and transmit data from Type 4 devices, even those requiring up to 70 watts of power. Data transfer speeds can be as high as 10 Gbps using Cat 6a Ethernet cables. These capabilities ease the burden on IT departments by:

• Reducing installation and maintenance costs.
• Enhancing customer experiences through improved device placement.
• Contributing to sustainability initiatives that reduce carbon footprints. 
• Supporting data-hungry applications. 
• Adding flexibility to network deployments.

PoE technology allows IT departments to do more while drawing less from operating budgets. They can reallocate these savings toward building more infrastructure for data-hungry applications. They can also futureproof endpoint deployment with PoE solutions that support devices with higher power and data requirements. 

Versa Technology offers PoE solutions that meet the demand for more power and data capabilities. Our products facilitate the cost-effective transfer of gigabytes of data.

 

Sources:

https://www.statista.com/statistics/871513/worldwide-data-created/

https://www.helenbrowngroup.com/alternate-interpretations-of-ai/#: