PoE Technology Trends in IoT

In today’s ever-evolving digital landscape, where the Internet of Things (IoT) is reshaping industries and everyday life, keeping pace with the forefront of technology is essential. One technology making a significant impact on IoT is Power over Ethernet (PoE). In this article, we’ll delve into a comprehensive understanding of PoE, explore its current applications, and unveil the pivotal technological trends shaping its role in the dynamic world of IoT.

Understanding PoE Technology

At the core of many IoT devices and applications lies Power over Ethernet (PoE) technology. But what exactly is PoE, and why is it pivotal in the IoT landscape?

Simplified PoE

Power over Ethernet, or PoE, is a technology enabling both power and data transmission over standard Ethernet cables. In the context of IoT, this means that IoT devices can be powered and connected to the network using a single cable. This technology streamlines installations and reduces the necessity for additional power sources, making it an ideal solution for a wide range of applications.

Key Components of PoE

To gain a thorough understanding of PoE, let’s break it down:

  • PoE Switches: These are network switches equipped with built-in PoE capabilities. They can provide power to PoE-enabled devices such as security cameras, access points, and sensors.
  • Injectors and Midspan Devices: These are standalone devices capable of adding PoE functionality to an existing network. They are valuable when upgrading a non-PoE network to support PoE devices.
  • PoE Devices: These are the IoT devices that can be powered and connected via PoE, eliminating the requirement for separate power sources.

Current Applications of PoE in IoT

PoE technology has found numerous applications in the world of IoT. Some of the most common applications include:

1. IoT Security Cameras:

PoE simplifies the installation of security cameras. With a single cable providing both power and data, cameras can be placed in more locations, enhancing security.

2. IoT Access Points:

Access points in wireless networks benefit from PoE, as it reduces the complexity of adding or relocating access points.

3. IoT Sensors:

Sensors used in various IoT applications can be powered and connected using PoE, streamlining their integration into the network.

Emerging Trends in PoE Technology

As technology continues to advance, PoE is not standing still. Several compelling trends are propelling the integration of PoE technology into cutting-edge IoT solutions, encompassing:

1. The rise of high-power PoE:

The introduction of the IEEE 802.3bt standard, often referred to as PoE++, has brought forth a groundbreaking power class capable of delivering a remarkable 90W through a single Ethernet cable. This breakthrough broadens the horizons for powering a diverse array of IoT devices, including high-power consumers such as smart displays, digital signage, and industrial sensors.

2. The development of PoE over long distances:

While conventional PoE systems can typically convey power over distances of up to 100 metres, contemporary PoE solutions extend this reach to several hundred metres, and in some cases, even kilometres. This advancement paves the way for the deployment of PoE in remote or hard-to-access locales, facilitating applications like outdoor security cameras and traffic monitoring systems.

3. The emergence of intelligent PoE systems:

PoE systems are evolving into increasingly sophisticated and intelligent ecosystems. This evolution opens the door to more streamlined power management and control. For instance, advanced PoE systems empower remote activation and deactivation of devices. Additionally, they enable dynamic adjustments in device power consumption based on real-time demand, resulting in heightened energy efficiency.

Future Prospects for PoE in IoT

The future of PoE in IoT looks promising. As 5G networks roll out and artificial intelligence (AI) continues to advance, PoE is poised to assume a more significant role. Consider these prospects:

  • 1. 5G and PoE in IoT
  • The expansion of 5G networks will propel the IoT’s growth, with PoE being essential in supporting the infrastructure required for high-speed, low-latency connectivity.
  • 2. AI Integration in PoE
  • AI-driven devices and applications stand to benefit from PoE’s capacity to simplify installations and offer centralized power and data management.

Challenges and Solutions

Despite its numerous benefits for IoT, PoE encounters challenges such as compatibility issues and power limitations. Fortunately, solutions exist to mitigate these challenges. For instance, employing midspan devices can adapt non-PoE networks, while opting for higher power PoE solutions can cater to devices with greater energy demands.

Conclusion

PoE emerges as a pivotal technology in facilitating the next generation of smart devices and services. Versatile, efficient, and cost-effective, PoE is well-suited for diverse IoT applications. As the IoT market expands, PoE is anticipated to assume an increasingly crucial role in enabling the next wave of smart devices and services.

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Overview of FS S3410 Series L2+ Managed PoE+ Switches

FS S3410 series L2+ fully managed PoE+ switches are the next-generation strong-security, high-performance, and energy-efficient Gigabit Ethernet switches. This article introduces the specifications, benefits and applications of these three PoE+ switch models — S3410-10TF-P, S3410-24TS-P, and S3410-48TS-P.

S3410 Series PoE+ Switches Options

The FS S3410 series comprises three distinct models, each designed with unique features tailored to address specific requirements. Below are their fundamental specifications.

S3410-10TF-PS3410-24TS-PS3410-48TS-P
RJ45 Ports10x 10/100/1000BASE-T RJ4524x 10/100/1000BASE-T RJ4548x 10/100/1000BASE-T RJ45
Fiber Ports2x 1G SFP2x 1G/10G SFP+
2x 1G RJ45/SFP Combo
2x 1G/10G SFP+
2x 1G RJ45/SFP Combo
PoE Ports8x PoE+24x PoE+48x PoE+
PoE StandardIEEE 802.3af/atIEEE 802.3af/atIEEE 802.3af/at
Power Budget125W (Single power)740W (Dual power)740W (Dual power)
Switch ChipBCM53343BCM56150BCM56150
Switching Capacity24 Gbps88 Gbps136 Gbps
Forwarding Rate30 Mpps66 Mpps132 Mpps
Flash Memory1.5MB512MB512MB
Switch StackingNot SupportUp to 4 UnitsUp to 4 Units
AirflowFanlessLeft-to-RightLeft-to-Right
ManagementSNMP V1/V2/V3, RMON, Syslog, SFLOW, CLI, WEB

Benefits of FS S3410 Series PoE+ Switches

Reliable Hardware and Diverse PoE+ Power Options

Equipped with Broadcom switch chips for faster data processing and stable performance, FS S3410 series PoE+ switches have undergone Ixia testing for certified performance. Offering varying port numbers from 10 to 48 and single or dual power supply options, users can select the most suitable configuration. The S3410-24TS-P and S3410-48TS-P switches provide full Gigabit access with 10G uplink data interaction capabilities, while the S3410-10TF-P fanless switch supports low-power operations, ideal for reducing costs in small business and home network services.

Enhanced User Network Protection and Traffic Optimization

Designed to offer robust protection for the access layer, the S3410 series PoE+ switches come with comprehensive protection policies to eliminate security threats and maintain a secure network environment. Features include support for Anti-ARP spoofing modes, proactive defense against various DDOS attacks, and industry-leading CPU protection mechanisms to optimize network performance and prioritize critical business operations. Other security features such as DHCP, ACL, port protection, SSH, RADIUS, and TACACS+ are also supported on S3410 series switches. For more information, please visit S3410 series Datasheet.

Simplified Network Management and Deployment

The S3410-24TS-P and S3410-48TS-P PoE+ switches support stacking of up to 4 units with the same or different models, simplifying network management and deployment by treating all switches in a stack as one logical device, accessible via a single IP address. Switch stacking enhances network scalability and improves failover handling.

Environmentally Friendly Networking Solutions

FS S3410 Series switches offer energy-efficient networking solutions with advanced hardware architecture, reducing overall energy consumption by over 40%. The smart fan enables intelligent temperature control based on ambient temperature, ensuring a quiet work environment even with the S3410-10TF-P fanless switch near desks, benefiting small and home office users.

S3410 Series PoE+ Switches: Powering More Devices with 740W

With a range of PoE+ ports spanning from 8 to 48, delivering either 15.4W or 30W per port, and boasting a total PoE power budget of up to 740W, the S3410 series PoE+ switches provide versatile deployment options for PoE-supported devices like wireless access points, IP cameras, and IP phones, reducing infrastructure expenses for small businesses.

Testimonialuk/Testimonial

Check out the reviews shared by other buyers of FS S3410 series switches:

S3410-10TF-P

“Needed two units quickly. They arrive sooner than expected and work exactly as I imagined. I really like that they are fanless and hence quiet. I used both the wired and the optical ports and all was good.”

— Gordon Frazer

S3410-48TS-P

“Product built is good. Tested it immediately after collected it, excellent item. Sales person is very responsive & helpful. I would be buying more items.”

— Kevin Tan

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FS S3410-48TS-P PoE Series Switches Overview

Whether in a small office, a large enterprise, or a data center, PoE switches are essential. FS has a range of PoE series switches designed to meet various network needs. This section will compare the S3410-48TS-P switch to other FS PoE switches and provide an in-depth look at the various options available in the FS PoE series switches.

Comprehensive Introduction to FS S3410-48TS-P Switch

The FS S3410-48TS-P switch is a versatile networking device featuring 48×10/100/1000BASE-T ports, 2x1Gb RJ45/SFP combo ports, and 2×1/10Gb SFP+ uplinks. Notably, its Ethernet ports are compliant with IEEE 802.3af PoE and IEEE 802.3at PoE+, delivering the capability to power various standards-compliant PoE and PoE+ end network devices, including IP phones and wireless access points. With a formidable 176 Gbps switching capacity and a forwarding rate of 132 Mpps, this managed enterprise switch ensures robust and efficient network performance.

As for the hardware, the switch is fortified with dual redundant hot-swappable power supplies and dual smart fans, guaranteeing exceptional processing prowess and network reliability. Furthermore, when integrated with the FS Airware Cloud management platform, it augments security and facilitates simplified user and Internet of Things access. Primarily employed at the access layer, this switch serves as a compact and cost-effective solution tailored for deployment in campus, SMB, and enterprise networks.

Comparison of FS S3410-48TS-P Switch and Other Switches

The FS PoE series switches are designed to cater to the diverse requirements of various network architectures. These switches are available in a broad spectrum of configurations, spanning from 8 to 48 ports, accommodating both Ethernet and fiber optic ports. They exhibit robust performance parameters, supporting features such as MLAG, Stacking, QoS, SSH, and more, ensuring the establishment of high-performance networks. In comparison, what distinguishes the S3410-48TS-P switches? The subsequent section outlines some comparative features.

Performance

Comparing the existing three well-selling switches S3150-8T2FP, S3400-24T4FP, and S3410-48TS-P, they have different performance parameters, and the main difference is the port.

The FS S3150-8T2FP operates as a layer 2 switch featuring 8 PoE ports and 2x1G uplink optical ports. Leveraging high-performance hardware and the FSOS platform, it boasts support for essential functionalities such as ACL, QinQ, and QoS. Additionally, it incorporates the ERPS protocol, enabling failover protection with a swift transition time of 50 milliseconds.

Similarly categorized as a Layer 2 PoE switch, the S3400-24T4FP extends its capabilities with 24 ports and a maximum power output of 370W. Its uplink port utilizes a Combo port configuration, housing four 1G Pluggable (SFP) ports. Mirroring the feature set of the S3150 switch, it supports ACL, QinQ, QoS, and ERPS.

Diverging from the aforementioned switches, the S3410-48TS-P switch distinguishes itself with an augmented PoE port count, accommodating a greater number of terminal devices. Notably, it achieves a PoE power delivery of 740W, incorporating two 10G SFP uplink ports and two Combo SFP Ports. Facilitating deployment efficiency, this switch supports stacking and can be seamlessly integrated with a cloud management network platform, offering remote online optimization, configuration, and debugging capabilities.

Appearance Design

From the overall design point of view, the FS S3410-48TS-P PoE switch incorporates a 1+1 hot-swappable power supply configuration and is equipped with two integrated intelligent fans, thereby ensuring the steadfastness of equipment operation. The S3400-24T4FP switch features a built-in power supply and three fans, markedly augmenting its thermal dissipation capabilities. As for the S3150-8T2FP switch, it adopts a fanless design, making it well-suited for office environments where noise reduction is imperative.

Application Scenarios

Switches with these ports are common types of switches in networks, and they are suitable for network environments of different sizes and needs. An exemplar of an 8-port switch, such as the S3150-8T2FP, proves optimal for smaller network setups, including small offices or home networks, connecting a limited number of devices. Primarily designed for personal use, these switches facilitate the interconnection of personal computers, printers, network storage, and other related devices.

The S3400-24T4FP switch is well-suited for the networking demands of small and medium-sized enterprise office environments, accommodating the connection of numerous devices. In scenarios like schools, universities, or other educational institutions, this switch is adept at meeting the network requirements of classrooms, laboratories, and office spaces.

The S3410-48TS-P 48-port switch is fitting for deployment in the core network or data center. It possesses the capability to support a substantial number of devices while upholding high-performance standards. In expansive data center setups, 48-port switches offer ample port capacity to address the connectivity needs of servers, storage devices, and other mission-critical equipment.

SwitchS3150-8T2FPS3400-24T4FPS3410-48TS-P
RJ45 Ports8x 100/1000BASE-T24x 100/1000BASE-T48x 100/1000M
Fiber Ports2x 1G SFP4x 1G SFP (4 Combo)2x 1G SFP(2 Combo)2x 10G SFP+
PoE Ports8x PoE+24x PoE+48 PoE/24 PoE+
PoE Budget130W370W740W
Management LayerL2+L2+L2+
Stacking//Up to 4 Units
Power Supply1 Built-in1 Built-in1+1 Redundant Hot-swappable
FanFanless3 Built-in Fans2 Built-in Smart Fans
QoS, IGMP Snooping, Link Aggregation, IPv6, L3 Static Routing, RIP, OSPFYesYesYes

Conclusion

In general, the selection of switch ports should be contingent upon the scale of one’s network, the quantity of connected devices, and the requisite bandwidth. Smaller networks commonly find utility in 8-port or 24-port switches, whereas larger or densely populated networks may necessitate a 48-port switch. Furthermore, considerations such as switch performance, management functionalities, and reliability must be taken into account.

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How to Select the Right PoE Switches for Building an SMB Network?

Currently, SMB networks tend to choose PoE switches to build LAN networks to achieve efficient network transmission and management. Based on this, various PoE switches have appeared on the market. If you are wondering how to choose the right PoE switch for your enterprise, please read this article. We will give you the answer.

A Brief Intro ——PoE Switch and SMB Network

Compared with other switches, a PoE switch is a network switch that supports Power over Ethernet (PoE) technology and can provide power to PoE devices connected to it. PoE switches allow data and power to be transmitted on the same Ethernet cable without the need for additional power lines. This is very convenient for intelligent systems in SMB networks, such as IP cameras, wireless access points, Internet phones, etc.

Types of PoE Switch

Here are several PoE switch types and their applications in SMB networks:

Unmanaged PoE Switches: Unmanaged PoE switches offer fixed network management configurations and are ideal for small businesses that only require a basic PoE network.

Smart Managed PoE Switches: Smart managed PoE switches, also known as hybrid PoE switches, are a type of intermediary that provides simple configuration through a web browser management interface.

Managed PoE Switch: It is the best-in-class type and they are generally designed to provide you with complete management of your network for great performance and increased security.

SMB Network Challenges

SMB networks are generally less complex than large enterprise networks, and they may include one or more servers, switches, routers, firewalls, and endpoint devices. SMB enterprises have limited IT resources and personnel, which can lead to challenges in managing and maintaining the network. In addition, enterprises are relatively small and network needs may be elastic and need to be able to adapt to rapid changes in the business.Therefore, SMBs usually face some of the following challenges:Network Performance Issues: When the number of end devices increases, you may face network congestion and performance issues.Security Challenges: Lack of professional security measures can leave the network vulnerable to malicious attacks.Device Compatibility: Devices from different manufacturers may need to work together in the network, and ensuring device compatibility and stability can be a challenge.Network Management Complexity: Even with relatively simple networks, managing end devices, user permissions, and network policies can still become complex.Technical Support: SMBs typically do not have a dedicated IT team, so they may need to rely on outside technical support.

Key Factors to Consider in PoE Switches Purchasing

Transmission Rates

The data rate of the PoE switch determines the speed of data transmission from the edge device. Matched network speeds resolve latency issues and increase work productivity and efficiency. PoE switches typically serve Fast Ethernet 10/100Mbps and Gigabit networks. Although 10/100Mbps PoE switches are suitable for SMB networks, as application performance improves, such as IP HD cameras, WiFi 6 access points, and Internet of Things (IoT) devices, the demand for high bandwidth increases. For enterprises with higher bandwidth requirements, it is wise to choose a PoE switch that supports Gigabit networks, and even consider super-10 Gigabit models.

Business Demands

Due to the different sizes of SMB, PoE switches are designed with different numbers of ports. It depends on the size of the business, so it’s important to know how many wired devices are connected using Ethernet. These devices include computers, printers, access points, and other devices that need to be connected to a PoE switch. Typically, the number of ports supported by a PoE switch varies between 5 and 48.

Power Consumption

Ensuring seamless data transfer in SMBs without worrying about power or signal loss is crucial. Connecting power supply network devices and performing complex total power budget calculations are critical steps.Standard PoE switches follow the IEEE802.3 standard and provide different output powers: IEEE802.3at is 15.4W, IEEE802.3af has a maximum output power of 30W, and IEEE802.3bt can output up to 100W. Device power consumption specifications make it easy to determine the required standard, basically choosing based on the device’s maximum power requirements.In addition, PoE switches have different total power budgets, and carefully calculating all connected devices is the most direct and effective way to determine the required power budget.

Devices Compatibility

PoE compatibility issues in SMB networks are a key consideration. Generally speaking, PoE switches function when connected to other PoE devices. The specifics may vary. For those considering using a PoE switch to connect non-PoE devices or wishing to integrate an existing non-PoE switch with a PoE switch, they must pay attention to the PoE compatibility of the PoE switch.Surely, there are many other factors that will affect the choice of PoE switches, such as deployment, future expansion, etc., which all need to be considered when building a network.

Finding the Suitable PoE Switch for SMB Network

If you are choosing a PoE switch for your IP surveillance system, go for a PoE switch equipped with 8 ports or 24 ports. 10/100Mbps PoE switches can be well adapted to IP surveillance video data transmission. Because the network speed consumption of high-definition cameras is about 25Mbps, even super-type 4K cameras only require network speeds of about 10Mbps.For PoE wireless access points, larger bandwidth is required to ensure smooth WiFi access. WiFi 6 allows business owners to achieve 1G/2.5G ultra-high-speed WiFi. To ensure this functionality is achieved, it is critical to select a PoE switch capable of delivering 1G/10G or faster network speeds.Today, businesses rely more on the Internet to hold meetings locally or globally. VoIP conferences often have higher requirements for network bandwidth, management and security. You’re better off choosing PoE switches that offer gigabit and faster network speeds while supporting QoS performance.

SwitchesS2805S-8TF-PS3150-8T2FPS3400-24T4FPS3410-48TS-P
Ports8x 10/100/1000BASE-T RJ45|2x 1G SFP8x 10/100/1000BASE-T RJ45 | 2x 1G SFP24x 10/100/1000BASE-T RJ45 | 4x 1G RJ45/SFP Combo48x 10/100/1000BASE-T RJ45, 2x 1G RJ45/SFP Combo | 2x 1G/10G SFP+
PoE Budget140W130W370W740W
PoE StandardIEEE 802.3af/atIEEE 802.3af/atIEEE 802.3af/atIEEE 802.3af/at
Design1 Built-in FanFanless3 Built-in Fan2 Built-in Fan
ProtocalVLAN, QoS, IGMP, LACPACL, QinQ, QoS, ERPSACL, QinQ, QoS, ERPSERPS, QoS, OSPF, LACP

Conclusion

There are many types of PoE switches in SMB networks, and understanding these can help you choose the appropriate equipment for your business. A variety of PoE switches may be needed to meet actual needs, and selection should not be made hastily to avoid unnecessary downtime costs. FS provides PoE switches that adapt to business needs and support advanced functions such as QoS/LACP/ERPS. If you have questions about purchasing a PoE switch, please visit FS.com for more information.

Harnessing PoE Networks for Increased Efficiency in the Modern Office

The development trend of smart offices is irreversible, and the application of PoE networks in the office environment is particularly noteworthy. PoE technology enables the transmission of both power and data through network cables, providing a more flexible and efficient solution for offices. This article will explore the application of PoE networks in office environments and their impact on office efficiency and intelligence.

Why Enterprises Need PoE Networks?

Traditional enterprise network architecture has big problems in cable deployment and equipment efficiency. Therefore, enterprises will give priority to choosing appropriate PoE switches to build PoE networks when upgrading their networks. Here are some of the challenges faced by traditional enterprise network architectures.

Complex Power Management

In traditional enterprise networks, the need to provide power to various devices results in complex cable wiring, appearing extremely disorganized. This complexity increases the difficulty of maintenance and may also affect the cleanliness of the office environment. PoE networks reduce cable usage by transmitting both power and data over a single network cable, which simplifies the cabling structure and enhances overall maintainability.

Inconvenient Device Powering

For some smart devices such as security cameras, IP phones, wireless access points, traditional power supply methods may not be convenient. PoE networks offer a more flexible and convenient power supply method for these devices, eliminating the need for additional power adapters. Additionally, they support remote power management to improve device controllability and flexibility.

Decentralized Device Management

Unified configuration and monitoring are critical for decentralized device management. While PoE switches achieve integrated management through centralized power supply and data transmission. It is more convenient for IT administrators to remotely monitor device status, power consumption and other information, thereby improving device reliability.

Low Office Efficiency

Traditional equipment management also has certain complexities in power supply, which may affect office efficiency. The application of PoE networks can simplify the maintenance process through centralized management and convenient power supply.

How Does PoE Network Realize Smart Offices?

The PoE network plays a crucial role in the intelligent office networks of small and medium-sized enterprises, offering convenient, flexible, and efficient solutions. The following are the advantages.

Smart Lighting Systems

Small and medium-sized enterprises can leverage PoE networks to implement smart lighting systems. Smart lighting devices powered by PoE can be interconnected with other office equipment to achieve automatic dimming and adaptive lighting. This allows for intelligent adjustments based on ambient light and human traffic, enhancing energy efficiency.

Security Monitoring Systems

Security cameras are a key component of security in small and medium-sized enterprises. PoE switches provide power and data transmission channels for these cameras, which can simplify the installation process of the equipment. These cameras, in turn, can be integrated with other security systems in the network to increase overall security. As shown in the figure below, the PoE security monitoring system solution connects monitoring devices through 1G PoE switches. The uplink port is connected to 10G Ethernet to realize enterprise 10G office network while easily managing smart devices.

IP Phone Systems

PoE switches achieve convenient deployment of intelligent IP telephone systems by providing simultaneous data and power transmission to IP phones. IP phones connect to PoE switch ports via Ethernet interface, and the switch delivers both power and data through a single network cable. This eliminates the need for additional power adapters for IP phones, streamlining device installation and maintenance. Additionally, remote power management is enabled, supporting the efficient operation of the intelligent IP telephone system.

Flexible Office Layout

Smart office flexibility is enhanced. Enterprise employees can move around different areas without worrying about the location of electrical outlets. By supporting both power and data transmission through a single network cable, a more flexible office layout is achieved, leading to increased efficiency for employees.

Remote Management and Monitoring

Small and medium-sized enterprises may face challenges due to insufficient IT resources. The network allows administrators to implement remote management and monitoring by deploying an operation and management platform with PoE devices, which facilitates real-time access to information such as device status and power consumption. This improves device controllability and simplifies the IT management process.

Explore PoE Network Solution for Smart Offices

Nowadays, the fast Internet development and business growth are driving the existing network to face increasing challenges such as bandwidth bottlenecks, network instability, low security, inconsistent management, etc. In office networks, smart devices are an essential infrastructure. Based on this, there is also a need for PoE network upgrade solutions in the market. For example, FS SMB office network solution uses S5860-20SQ switch as the core switch, and the access layer uses S3410-24TS-P switch to connect an AC224P to support the power input of AP equipment. Secondly, this network solution is mainly based on the 10G network and connects other access devices through PoE ports to realize smart office networks.

To sum up, PoE network solutions can realize intelligent office networks and provide enterprises with sustainable development intelligent solutions.

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