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PoE Negotiation of Power [Power Step-Down of the PoE Protocol]

PoE Negotiation of Power [Power Step-Down of the PoE Protocol]

With so much focus on smart home and business technologies these days, it’s clear Power over Ethernet (PoE) technology will continue to drive smart device development. Every year we see new ways to make life more efficient and save money. Dream Home Inspection recently reported the average monthly savings from using smart home products is $98.30, which adds up to an average of $1,179.60 per year. These newer smarter technologies are bringing with them higher power budgets, some are now reaching 90W and beyond, and some consumers are wondering if they can safely combine these powerful, feature-laden devices on the same networks with their 30W and 60W legacy powered devices. Happily, the answer to this question is a resounding yes, thanks to something called PoE Power Negotiation and Power step down.

PoE power-step down is an IEEE PoE protocol that allows a power device like a PoE injector or switch to detect the presence of the device receiving power, before negotiating the power level it delivers. Once this detection process is completed, which includes the identification of the exact power levels the receiving device actually needs, the power sourcing equipment (PSE) can safely send power. In fact, it literally “steps down” the power to what the powered device (PD) requires.

Definition of Terms

Power Sourcing Equipment (PSE) for these installations is a device that is capable of providing PoE such as a switch or injector.
Powered Device (PD) is a device capable of receiving PoE from a PSE.

How Power Step-Down Works

To paint a real-world picture of how a power negotiation or step-down procedure works this will take you through the steps on your network.

PoE Injector

A PSE (switch or injector) classifies an 802.3af or 802.3at PoE device and initiates a step-down under the IEEE standards for the power budget of Type 1 and Type 2. If you’re new to injectors, they are midspan devices that can extend the reach between a switch and a remote endpoint installation such as a small network, a security checkpoint or a coffee kiosk on a business campus.

This chart illustrates the current IEEE standards in existence by type, name and power cap. Power step down would be used when combining PSEs and PDs between Types on the same network. Power step down would be needed when a newer, more powerful PSE sends power to a variety of PDs. It can be managed at the port level.

IEEE Standards by TypeType 1 PSE or PD – 802.3af compliant PSE or PD
Type 2 PSE or PD – 802.3at (PoE+) compliant PSE or PD

Let’s track through the steps of how a power transaction would take place.

The Two-Event Classification Sequence before Power-Down

The first handshake. The PSE detects a connected PD by sending a short low-voltage pulse which determines how much power the PD needs. This pulse is unlikely to damage a non-PoE device. Depending on how much current it draws during this pulse, the PSE classifies the PD into one of classes 0-4 (0-3 / type 1 PSEs and PDs).

PoE step down classifications

Here’s how type and class levels communicate in the second handshake between PSE and PD.

PoE Class Levels

For example, the second handshake is required for a type 2 PSE to classify the connected PD into class 4 (PoE+ power), informing the PD that full 802.3at power is available.

The PSE now has confirmation that a type 2 PD connection took place to the port, ensuring that the PD device is secure from a power burst. Before this second handshake takes place, the PD and PSE restrict power to within 802.3af limits.

This second handshake takes one of two forms:

  1. a hardware-based Two-Event Classification
  2. a software-based LLDP1 classification

The 802.3at standard mandates that PSEs support only one of these mechanisms. PDs, however, must support both classification methods to ensure the capability to join a variety of networks.

In the hardware-based two-event classification, the initial voltage pulse classification event repeats. Once the PD passes the second classification event as a class 4 PD, it receives full class 4 802.3at power.

This method was initially intended to be used by midspan PoE injectors, as they generally won’t support LLDP required for software-based classification.

For the software-based LLDP classification, LLDP must be enabled on both the PSE and PD, with the 802.3at TLVs enabled. This step allows the PSE and PD to negotiate power requirements via software, rather than the second classification pulse used in the hardware-based method. This step also allows power requirements to be dynamically negotiated, allowing a PSE’s power budget to be better managed.

  1. LLDP is link layer discovery protocol is an IEEE 802 protocol suite that advertises a device’s identity and abilities to other devices on the same network.

PoE Power NegotiationDevice/PSE Step-Down Actual Power Messages

Power negotiates over Ethernet Layer 2 LLDP, informing the Ethernet Switch and the powered device-specific details about that power:

  • Power Source: This tells the switch if power is coming from a normal source, or backup/conservation source and if a usage reduction or shutdown is needed.
  • Power Priority: This tells the switch how to prioritize the connected endpoints in categories of Critical, High, or Low. In the event of a power shortage, the lower priority devices would shut down first and critical devices remain on the longest.
  • Power Value: The switch tells PD the available power and limits of the power available to that device. The endpoint uses the same limits to raise or lower the amount of power asked for (0-102.3 Watts in 0.1 Watt increments).

Power Step-Down and the Future of Ethernet Power and Energy Efficiency

The end result of this power awareness by the actual connected devices is that networks are going to become much more energy-efficient, not only as a way to optimize how PDs and PSEs interact, but in overall usage. Nothing wasted.

Not just in terms of device health but in terms of automation, the Step-Down function is part of a larger, ongoing IoT trend where devices talk directly to each other, saving time for administrators and allowing them to prioritize in other areas. Look for both devices and communications to continue to expand and develop along these lines.

Learn more about Versa’s flexible IT networking solutions including our extensive line of Ethernet Switches and Industrial Switches.

The New IEEE 802.3bt Compliant 100W per port 24-Port PoE5 Tester by Reach Technology

The New IEEE 802.3bt Compliant 100W per port 24-Port PoE5 Tester by Reach Technology

Why the PoE5 Tester will help IT managers transition networking equipment to support the new IEEE 802.3bt compliant higher-powered Type 4 PoE.

On September 27, 2018, the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) ratified their latest PoE standard. This new 4 pair, high powered IEEE 802.3bt Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) distribution technology has now reached a stunning power level of 100W to enable the next generation of intelligent devices.

“This amendment to IEEE Std 802.3-201x increases the maximum PD power available by utilizing all four pairs in the specified structured wiring plant. These enhancements solve the problem of higher power and more efficient standardized PoE delivery systems.”  Approved Draft Standard for Ethernet, Amendment 2, Power over Ethernet over 4 Pairs.

Millions of devices are currently receiving data and power from this single cable solution. Expect to see these numbers mushroom in all sorts of areas. This includes smart buildings in sensing cities where lighting, HVAC, and occupancy relies upon the intelligence of PoE enabled sensors.

PoE is rising to the challenge of providing the wall-outlet AC equivalent to the IoT devices ecosystem now emerging on the scene.

Another challenge will come in determining if existing infrastructure is up to the task of these higher levels of power. IT admins, integrators, and installers will want to have a quick, reliable way to check if their IT networks can support higher power budgets, which is why Versa thought this article would be of interest.

What the PoE5 100W Power-over-Ethernet Tester Does

Last week, Reach Technology officially launched their PoE5 100W 24-port tester to allow networking teams a way to measure if switches are fully functioning at the port-level, and if not, at what levels of power they are delivering. While this unit is essential for manufacturing product tests, it definitely has a place in enterprise IT where admins need to maintain optimal network performance.

The Reach Technology PoE5 100W tester provides a cost effective per-port test unit which verifies the Power Sourcing Equipment (PSE) is properly functioning. PSE manufactures adopting IEEE 802.3bt PoE used in many Multiport Ethernet Switch, Midspan, and other new IEEE 802.bt-2018 controllers will want to test to this new standard.

Reach Technology PoE5 100W Tester

The PoE5 can help identify equipment failures before they happen by allowing a clear way to determine what upgrades are required to keep LANs functioning at peak through the transition to higher powered PoE-device ecosystems.

Some specification highlights of the PoE5 are:

  • Compliant to four pair standard
  • Up to 100w total per-port adjustable load
  • Supports single and double signature implementations
  • Datapath rated to 10Gbase-T
  • Supports autoclass options for LED lighting applications

Additionally, the PoE5 supports multirate traffic of 2.5G, 5G, and 10G speeds. All channels on all units are verified to provide a Cat6A compliant data path.

The PoE5 Tester is used to verify a Multiport Ethernet Switch (PSE side) is functioning properly testing power load on each port. While the RT PoE5 tester doesn’t not provide compliance and LLDP testing it can achieve a low cost-per-port and repeatable testing on your development and testing needs.  Many PoE customers are using this tester for R&D development, firmware changes, port setup and in production manufacturing for Go, No Go testing.

How the PoE5 Will Be Used

Reach Technology provided a real-life situation to help understand ways IT staff can utilize the tester.

If a central 24-port high-power switch has a single port failure, not only is the end user inconvenienced (no lights!), but the whole switch may need replacing.

The tester gives a final stress test to ensure that the complete unit, from internal power supply and cabling to the RJ45 jack connectors, and avoids common initial installation failures and provides the level of reliability that is expected of power infrastructure.

PoE5 Tester and VX-GPU2626 UPOE Switch

This unit will help enterprise professionals measure the performance levels of their existing switch equipment and replace those units that aren’t up to the task. Versa offers an excellent upgrade option—the Versa VX-GPU2626 L2+ 24-Port Managed GbE UPOE Switch.

For networking professionals, the goal is always 100 percent uptime. It’s a big deal especially when you realize some of the ways IEEE 802.3bt will support intelligent technology and make life better and safer.

Technologies 802.3bt Supports

The 802.3bt PoE 100W power increase now opens remote and lower cost installation alternatives to a host of new devices. To paint a picture of the technologies where IEEE 802.3bt will appear, here is a list of the device networks where having this tester will help ensure you have the robust capability your system requires.

Smart LED Lighting NetworksSmart LED Lighting

Smart lighting adapts to changing work environment, enhancing well-being and productivity. LED bulbs can last up to 50K hours. That is an average of 50 times longer than incandescent, 20-25 times longer than halogen, and 8-10 times longer than CFL, and at substantial energy savings. It can share a network switch and be upgraded or reprogrammed inexpensively. Additionally, the Ethernet infrastructure that supports LED lighting solutions, like the SmartCast Intelligent Lighting System manufactured by CREE, and is super simple to install eliminating the need for costly electricians.

Digital Signage NetworksDigital Signage

The benefit, variety of implementation, and beauty of digital signage is extraordinary. These technologies have come a long way in a very short time. A content manager at a PC with the right software and a digital sign and do amazing things to improve the quality and value of outward facing business communication. And, it usually only takes a couple of hours to get a system up and running.

Smart Door Locks /Security Access Points/ IP Camera SystemsIP Camera

Having 24/7 access to the entry point security control into a home or business from one centralized device, such as a smartphone, can give a parent or manager peace of mind. Smart access points store security policies, aggregate historical data, and other features to protect people and vital assets. CCTV and IP camera systems operate in a similar fashion.

Ethernet has long been associated with security system installations because it allows remote placement of devices without the need for additional power sources.

Medical Displays

A medical display, like a Thinlabs PoE monitor, is a light screen with special image-enhancing capabilities and brightness that allow high-Medical Displayresolution reading and automated compliance for use in diagnostic testing. Lower quality devices lose their brightness over time. A good medical display will retain the brightness required to detect subtleties in a patient x-ray.

In other words, not only will IEEE 802.3bt make the places we live and work safer, brighter and more comfortable, but it will also help doctors save lives.

Not a bad result for an increased limit of 100W power per port.

Final Thoughts

This new IEEE standard opens the floodgates, for the PoE market and powered switch (PSE) suppliers and PoE power LED lighting controllers, IP camera and other PoE powered devices. And, although a mountain of brand new devices are coming our way, the infrastructure that will support them is going to be a little more checkered, at least when it comes to newness. Installation customers will need to stretch their budgets and prioritize networking equipment updates while we transition.

That is where the PoE5 comes in. It will give networking pros a tool to measure the “life” that’s left in their existing infrastructure and support the marvelous things end users are doing with that 100W power increase.

To learn more about the PoE5 Tester by clicking on this link.

As always, if one of Versa’s analysts can assist you with putting together a bid, we’d love to hear from you.

Fiber Optic | Maximizing Speed and Distance in PoE Networking

In a previous article, Versa discussed hybrid fiber-and-copper blended cabling and the power-over-fiber cabling options that are in development. These solutions have their place in network deployments, but like anything that is specialized can be costly to purchase.

In this article, we will look at reasons for deploying fiber in segments of an installation, and why this less expensive approach makes sense.

For other parts of an installation, copper is king. It’s a green alternative. It’s also pre-existing and thereby much less costly, which causes less friction for approval within organizations trying to stretch a dollar. Pre-existing coaxial, too, has found a place in the geography of Power over Ethernet (PoE). There remains a position within the illustrious cabling stratosphere, though, that only fiber optic can fill. Because of its speed and resistance to harsh environments, it is especially well suited to ultra-long distances and high-noise industrial deployments.

To begin this discussion, it’s useful to recap some of the main points in Power over Ethernet (PoE) copper cabling and understand its limitations.

Power over Ethernet Using Copper

Electrical signals over copper [PoE] need a refresh at a distance of 100 meters. That means without the use of extenders and other long reach technologies that’s the limit of power and data on a single cable.

IEEE 802.3bt (PoE ++, or Type 3) provides up to 80 watts of power by using all four twisted copper pairs to transmit data and power at a maximum supported distance of 100 meters. Copper is able to transmit power over longer distances; transmitting data over copper, without the use of boosting devices, is limited to ranges of 100 meters.

 

Happily, there are plenty of networking devices allow IT administrators and installers the luxury of sending signals for much longer distances and combining multi-cable networks with ease.

  • Extenders – can be used to extend an Ethernet network up to distances of 6,000 meters. The VX-VEB160G4 (V2) can achieve 300Mbps [downstream up to 190Mbps and upstream up to 110Mbps.]. Extenders also work for wireless and coax networks.
  • Injectors may be used to inject power at midspan for legacy equipment deployments where power needs to be combined with data.
  • Fiber media converters are used to combine segments of a network where fiber and twisted pair cabling appear in the same network stream.

Extenders, Injectors, Media Converters

Each of these technologies can add considerable distance to the reach of a LAN. But they aren’t able to span ultra-long distance like fiber can.

Some of the Benefits of Fiber

The optical fiber transmits up to 100 Terabits per second and can easily surpass 100-meter distances. Singlemode fiber can reach distances over 120 km but it’s more expensive than multimode. The primary reason for this is the tightness of the single mode connection required. Connectors have to be ceramic. That makes labor more expensive as installers must finely polish and splice connections.

Multimode is less expensive to install but single mode has a higher capacity.

In either case, fiber outdistances copper and coax dramatically. And they offer speeds that are much faster because they travel over light pulses.

A Side-by-Side Comparison of Features

There are good reasons why single mode and multimode cabling types are so popular. The glass in fiber optic cable is less susceptible to harsh temperatures than copper which can expand or contract significantly. And though glass tends to be brittle, it can also handle loud noise and electrostatic emissions found in industrial environments. Let’s take a closer look at how they work.

Single Mode Fiber Single mode fiber uses the 9/125 ratio in its construction. The core to cladding diameter is 9 microns to 125 microns.

Single mode Fiber

The reason single mode is called “single” is that it carries a single ray of light. At the center of this fiber optic cable is a small diametral core. The core will only allow one mode of light to propagate. As the light transmit down the core, the number of reflections decreases. This also lowers the rate in which a signal attenuates or weakens. The narrowing action propels the signal further. This is what makes single mode ideal for long distance deployments.

Multimode Fiber Multimode fiber uses the 62.5/125 ratio in its construction. The core to cladding diameter is approximately 62.5 microns to 125 microns.

Multimode Fiber

The reason multimode is called “multi” is because it carries multiple rays of light. At its center, as you probably guessed by process of elimination, is a large diametric core. This allows light to propagate in both directions. The number of light reflections that this additional space allows increases as the signal passes through the core. More data is able to transmit at a time. For the same reason, though, the wider core can also lead to a high rate of dispersion reducing signal quality over long distances. Radio frequencies don’t transmit over multimode fiber.

Power Over Fiber and Copper / Fiber Hybrids

Manufacturers have been busy. Besides copper, coax and fiber there are other options available—hybrid and composite cables. They are nothing new but in a discussion about network cabling, they definitely need to be mentioned.

Hybrid cables

The hybrid factor is based upon the type of fiber being used—usually multimode and single mode. Installers deploy them in contained areas like a campus or premises backbone where single mode may be used in future deployments.

Hybrid cable vs Composite cable

Composite cables

The composite factor refers to cables that contain both fiber and electrical conductors. This variety is referred to as a powered fiber cable system (PFCS). These cables are grounded for safety.

Note: These cables may be used for underwater tethered vehicles, remote wireless antennas, and CCTV cameras.

Summary | Why Use Different Cables

Connecting together an enterprise network, whether business, governmental, or academic, can be like piecing together a puzzle. The wisdom as to why an installer chooses a particular cable not only rests on its function but also how much it costs to deploy. Keeping costs down has allowed organizations the ability to afford frequent upgrades. One of the most exciting solutions of the present day has definitely been PoE and its satellite components.

Along with much repurposing of Cat 5e, Cat 6, and Cat 6a, though, there seems to be a resurge in coax and a steady proportionate deployment of fiber.

If you’re piecing together a network of diverse cabling and would like some help in understanding the best option for your deployment, please feel free to reach out.

Sensing City Strategies and Versa’s VX-VEB160G4 (V2) 300Mbps Ethernet Extender Kit

Memory fails as to who actually coined the phrase, but living in a smart home will eventually feel like living inside of a robot. The flow of life, work, and travel will become so tailored that we might begin to wonder how those who lived in earlier times survived.

Imagine how much easier life would have been for Ben Franklin. “Alexa, dost thou know when thunder and lightning will overflow the skies?”

“Okay, Ben,” Alexa replieth, “There’s a seventy percent chance of rain this afternoon.”

“I thank thee.”

“You’re welcome.”

But, I digress.

As our homes, workplaces, and cities become increasingly connected and smart, what technology will innovators rely on to drive this transformation? The answer is sensors.

The “linchpin” to these “self aware” environments will definitely be the sensor. These devices will read our reality and supply billions of data points to super computers for analysis to help developers innovate. It’s going to be interesting to watch.

Many of us have witnessed this phenomenon on our roadways. Street lights adjust to the flow of traffic. An announcement of an accident appears on a roadside marquee redirecting motorists to the fastest alternate route to their destination.Sidewalk Labs - Quayside

Tech giants like Alphabet Sidewalk Labs have witnessed this. The Google parent company is tapping into sensors to find ways to improve city life. The team is immersed in a 12-block test project along the waterfront in the city of Toronto in Canada, to see how a sensing city can inform design and accessibility for the citizens there.

The waterfront or Quayside project is going to be built from the ground up.

Installers don’t always have that luxury. So how do organizations and cities “back-fill” getting sensing devices into the odd places they’re needed to collect data?

Solving the Problem of Remote Sensors

As an IT networking pro easing your way into the Internet of Things (IoT), you’re probably thinking about practical and effective ways you and your team will be installing sensors.

  • Around a client’s home
  • In an office or government building
  • On a college campus
  • Across municipal infrastructure like atop a bridge or cell tower

Whenever a remote installation is required, Ethernet extenders are able to provide a simple, one-cable solution.

Versa’s VX-VEB160G4 (V2) is an Industrial, wall mounted, 300Mbps Ethernet Extender Kit. It’s our best in class, providing data rates of 190 Mbps downstream and 110 Mbps upstream via legacy copper lines.

 

What Is An Ethernet Extender?

Also known as a repeater, an Ethernet extender is an IEEE 802.3 compliant device that allows a connection to a local area network (LAN) that is beyond the standard cable distance of 100 meters [330 feet], the distance that data can travel over copper.

An Ethernet extender is commonly used to connect remote devices, such as, CCTV cameras, sensors, wireless access points (WAPs), display screens, point of sales kiosks, and security access technologies like retinal scanners or badge readers.

Ethernet extenders are used for copper Ethernet cabling solutions like twisted pair and 4-wire options. They help connect devices that would otherwise access a wireless area network (WAN) but do not have a clear sight line (wireless signal path).

Our Extender, The VX-VEB160G4 (V2)

The VX-VEB160G4 (V2) is a best in class PoE compliant device with the fastest speeds for this type of device anywhere. It can be deployed at distances of up to 9,000 feet (2,743.2 meters). It’s the perfect option to implement a remote sensor in a variety of settings and can weather temperature extremes between -40°C/F to 75°C (167°F).

Essentially, the VX-VEB160G4 (V2) is a perfect option for that remote sensing device indoor or out, that needs to deliver data and power over one single legacy copper cable.

Where Sensing City Sensors Will Be Deployed

Smart cities and sensing cities are in varying degrees of development around the globe. Toronto isn’t the only place a sensing city is being implemented. Christchurch in New Zealand is another project.

Sensing cities monitor flows of people, traffic, quality of water and other essential services.

Some of the ways that sensors are collecting data are listed.

  • Electrical grid management
  • Smart parking facilities
  • Public safety management
  • Water quality management
  • Electric vehicle charging stations
  • Real-time scheduling and tracking of local transportation
  • Public information access points
  • Air quality control
  • Noise reduction management

All of these factors will be monitored and managed to make quality of life better for residents.

Sensing City Dashboard Simulation

To give you an idea of how this might be communicated to decision makers, here’s a sensing city dashboard simulation developed by MIT Portugal that shows an overhead grid and power consumption levels within different sectors of a city.

Power consumption spikes indicate the presence of a local event or it could be an alert that informs authorities of infrastructure problems. This could save time and considerable amounts of money as it not only identifies location but could also diagnose problems and remove delays and guesswork as to the proper resolution.

Development in Toronto

Developmental Sequence for the Alphabet project in Toronto. Not surprisingly, infrastructure is the first layer of this project. You have to have the bones to support all of the services.

Quayside Sensing City Sidewalk labwSmart, Slow Development Over Time

It’s probably not realistic to think that a project like building a sensing city from the ground up has an end date. It’s just one of those things in life that will continue to evolve as needs become apparent and technology is developed.

One of the reasons Rohit Aggarwala, the project lead for Alphabet Sidewalk Labs, is calling the Quayside a sensing city is that he feels the term “smart city” is obsolete.

The term smart city is too closely associated with software products focused on wringing maximum efficiency out of cash-strapped city services.

Makes sense. Sensing brings with it the idea that conclusions that are drawn and implemented in design will be based on empirical data from the sensors. It will remove human bias based on pre-conceived notions and stay true to fact.

If you would like to learn more about Power over Ethernet and the capability to deliver power and data over one cable, please check out our Power over Ethernet page.

 

Forward-Looking Cable Infrastructure and SMART Building for the Future

Forward-Looking Cable Infrastructure and SMART Building for The Future

Amazon AlexaIf you happened to jump on the Amazon site this past weekend, you might have noticed something new. Amazon has started to roll out their Alexa compatible ecosystem. The next stage in the Internet of Things (IoT) apparently is not more connectivity to the Internet, but the ability of devices to talk to one another. One interesting addition to this somewhat predictable gadgetary body is a microwave. I mean, what good is having a digital assistant, security cameras, car access, and a sound system if you can’t have Alexa heat your burrito while you enjoy it? We predict this little device will amass a small fortune for Amazon. Can’t you just see the junior engineers suggesting it when their project leaders asked which products they wanted to develop next?

As September 2018 winds down, get ready. We are poised to enter 2019 and the IoT is mushrooming into reality before our eyes. It’s no longer just a list of predictions from research houses like Gartner or Frost & Sullivan.

Manufacturers are excitedly releasing their pre-holiday product lines, and inadvertently opening a window into the spectacular future. With Pandora’s box now open, it shines a light on what lies ahead for us infrastructure folks. We need to prepare for the next level of IT networking.

A New Approach to Cable Installations

Cabling a home is one thing, but cabling in an ever-shifting office building or campus where the needs are in constant flux requires greater design flexibility. With that in mind, installation experts are turning their eyes to the ceiling, literally. The real estate above our heads offers the greatest forgiveness and ease when it comes to redeployment options.

One such technique that planners are relying on is the universal connectivity grid (UCG). A group called CommScope has developed this innovative methodology and in this article, Versa will explain some of the reasons it’s catching the attention of weary IT and facility managers.

Universal Connectivity Grid (UCG)

To understand the importance of this new approach, let’s consider some of the expanding technology that office networks currently support.

  • Wireless access points
  • Security and access control systems
  • Facility management systems including lighting and temperature controls
  • Energy tracking
  • LANs

Building design professionals are on the search for a better, more flexible approach to help them pre-plan for the inevitable changes that occur throughout the life of buildings. What was once a lunchroom may convert to a lab as other space maxes out and customers driven projects come to a business. This is why building construction, smart buildings, and raised floorraised floor goes hand in hand.

Let’s begin with the traditional method.

Traditional Commercial Building Networks

Traditionally, building networks consisted of 2 networking-infrastructure segments called point-to-point. The vertical distribution, called the backbone, acts like the trunk of a tree and is a place where cabling for the floor converges.

The horizontal distribution acts like branches and reaches out to specific networks across each floor within the building structure. The problem is that office structures are highly changeable and when a space needed to be reconfigured walls, notoriously, needed to come down in order to re-cable for the new needs of that area.

Zone Cabling

The next “generation” of cabling relies on consolidation points and common pathways to run cable around the circuit of a floor. The zone system allows facilities managers greater flexibility but still requires designers to utilize predetermined pathways.

Any distances beyond the 100m Ethernet limit could be handled with fiber-optic cabling and then linked through a media converter technology to less expensive and often preexisting Ethernet cabling. Any wireless networking would be done on the fly.

What is a Media Converter

A Media Converter is a network device combining two types of cable infrastructure within the same connection. It supports fiber-to-copper signal conversion to support devices requiring both power and cable. A media converters can be deployed as both a stand-alone device or port-level insert.

Zone CablingThe vertical portions might run along centrally located points like near stairwells or elevator shafts and then spread outwards. Zone cabling definitely covers more ground from a pre-thought perspective, but many a facilities worker or installation contractor still had a lot of cables to pull when walls needed to shift.

Thankfully, there’s an easier approach that gets the bulk of the work done ahead of time and provides the spatial support for great infrastructure as needs arise within a business.

The Universal Connectivity Grid

The UCG approach takes zone cabling a step further. It distributes a honeycomb or grid of cells across the entire ceiling the length of the building. This construction is uniform and pre-integrated. Further, it deploys low voltage technologies like PoE and preplaces wireless access points.

These zones are fully staged to support all of the SMART building systems that are being retrofitted these days:

  • Fire and security alarm systems
  • Access controls
  • LAN cabling
  • Lighting systems
  • Wireless

It simplifies changes and ongoing operational costs can be reduced.

Summary

UCG is a smart move toward the the next stage in device support. As you’ve seen and as Versa has mentioned in a number of our posts, pre-integration is the move of all technology. It’s what customers are seeing with Alexa and Amazon’s new wave of digital assistant lifestyle products and it’s the direction that infrastructure is taking to support the device rich landscape we see in front of us. For those of us that love technology, these are exciting days.

If you’re in the process of constructing a bid or home project and would like a little help putting together your product list, we’re always happy to assist.

Why 4G LTE Gateway Is Still A Win, And Will Be For Sometime To Come

Why 4G LTE Gateway Is Still A Win, And Will Be For Sometime To Come

We hear a lot about 5G these days. Currently 5G is or is about to go live in major cities around the U.S: such as, Houston, Atlanta, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Phoenix, and Washington D.C. Still others will go live in early 2019. It all depends upon your provider and location. In some ways, 5G is still a ways from becoming a fully-realized technology but it’s definitely on its way.

Yet IT networking device manufacturers don’t appear to be slowing down on 4G development.

To get to the heart of their reasoning, we need to ask a few questions. Namely, what is 4G and is it still a viable alternative to the coming 5G upgrades?

4G is simply the 4th generation of wireless broadband. It is 10x faster than 3G wireless, and a cost effective way of delivering wireless broadband. 4G LTE wireless broadband offers speeds between 5Mbps and 12Mbps downlink, and between 2Mbps and 5Mbps up. In either case, speed depends upon the distance the signal is sent. Shorter distances are faster.

5G currently offers 10Gbps downloads and 2.5Gbps uploads, so clearly, 4G is still competitive.

What do organizations looking to upgrade their wireless networking infrastructure do while they wait for 5G? The answer to this question may be found in the much used acronym: LTE. These letters stand for Long Term Evolution (LTE).

LTE infrastructure is not a short-term solution. LTE is designed, specifically, to get end users through the rest of 4G and well into the 5G stage of wireless.

NOTE: a gateway is the device that supports your wireless area network.

LTE Gateway offers end users a cross-generational solution in this vibrant stage of 4G wireless, while the developers work out the 5G bugs.

What exactly does 4G offer?

The need for speed

LTE uses Orthoganal Frequency Division Multiple Access (OFDMA) for the downlink and Single Carrier-Frequency Division Multple Access (SC-FDMA) for the up. OFDMA fully captures the frequency ranges it employs by taking advantage of both carrier and subcarrier waves in the downlink direction. It’s super efficient. Here’s an excerpt from one of our earlier articles describing this process:

In Frequency Division Multiple Access (FDM), bandwidth available in a communication medium divides into non-overlapping frequency sub-bands. All frequency resources are allocated to a single user. In each timed segment, one user gets the full allocation of the sub-band.
In OFDMA, timed bands are actually divided between multiple users.The ORTHOGONAL aspect controls the timing of bands so that no signals or data interfere with other signals sharing the same frequency.
With SC-FDMA, data transmissions are shorter and therefore save on battery life. Together, these schemes work together for optimal outcomes and end-user experiences.

 

Additionally, LTE uses multiple antennae at the tower to support high data rates at speeds of 1 millisecond.

What’s the latency for LTE wireless technology?

Another benefit to LTE technology is low latency or lag time between when data onboards carrier and when it’s received.Latency a.k.a. buffering

First, let’s define latency. Latency is signal time. It’s the time between when the train leaves the station and when it arrives at the final destination. It’s also known as buffering. Grrr. Most people don’t think about latency until they see that little wheel turning on their video screen waiting for their video to resume.

Experts say 4G latency speeds can reach as fast as 2 milliseconds for LTE.

These speeds seem almost ridiculous. Can the human eye even perceive the difference between 100 and 2 milliseconds? Yet there are sound reasons why these speeds are relevant.

They are important when streaming high resolution video like 4K and 8K. When we get to 3D it’ll become even more important for images to appear realistic.

The other thing is accommodation of traffic on busy networks. When you start to increase network user density, physical resource blocks can fill up quickly.

The timing aspect of shared bands, though, solves this problem.

4G LTE sounds good in theory but what about actual delivery?

Phone Arena compares 4G LTE speeds for broadband providers across various US markets—upstream and downstream:

  • AT&T
  • Verizon Wireless
  • Sprint
  • T-Mobile.

Each one of these providers is giving their customers excellent mobile streaming speeds.

“4G LTE has brought blazingly fast Internet to our mobile devices,” states PhoneArena, “with speeds often higher than what home Internet connections offer. However, not all carriers are equal in their offerings.”

Sadly, this disparity is due, in part, to Internet throttling, something cable providers may not be able to remedy. Infrastructure rollouts including fiber installations and technologies like G.Fast will improve things relatively quickly.

That said, 4G is performing well.  

Current data rates vary city-by-city and depend upon which carriers are active, but the results are stunning for the 4G user and competitive with what 5G is going to be offering over the next few years at least as 5G rolls out. It promises to eventually reach speeds 10x faster than 4G, but for now is pretty much the same.

LTE and data

LTE moves multiple data streams at once. The ability to add more users and data streams onto a wireless network simultaneously, is akin to safely removing traffic lights from the roads in your city.

You’re able to go fast because it’s easier to get and stay on a network.

LTE Gateway devices also provide good Internet where broadband is either antiquated or non-existing. 4G is a fantastic alternative to cable, which explains why hotspots have become so popular.

How this data efficiency works

By packing as much digital data as they can onto each radio signal, radio frequency engineers maximize the speed and efficiency of an entire network.

4G networks use standard communications IP-based protocols (Internet protocol) to send and receive data in packets. This includes voice data aka voLTE (Voice Over LTE). AI and mobile texting are growing in popularity.

This is called the all-IP standard. Standardized IP packets allow data to traverse all sorts of networks without being scrambled or corrupted.

The signal process soup to nuts

A mobile device begins the sequence by first communicating with the cell tower or base station. The tower is fitted with antennae. Once the LTE link is established, data packets are sent and received at the same time due to the different frequencies used for data in either direction.

Signals travel via radio sub-channels, and are pieced together by processors at the other end.

LTE networks are called long-term evolution because carriers have invested in LTE infrastructure design for the long haul. This “long-term” option offers outstanding scalability. It’s a long-term solution with optimized capacity and performance capabilities that will stay current for some time.

Versatek LTE Gateway products

Versa Technology offers a series of 2-port and 4-port industrial 4G LTE Routers that provide excellent, long-term WAN solutions for places like shopping malls, college campuses, hotels, food courts, government buildings and the like.

Operating temperatures for these sturdy, high-end solutions begin at -20°C to cap at 70°C [-4°F to 158°F], making them perfect for outdoor deployment in warmer climates and equally useful in extreme settings like manufacturing environments.

We invite you to request a custom quote if you’d like help piecing together equipment for a wireless network installation.

Versa Transceiver Technologies Make Multi-Cable Networks Click

Versa Transceiver Technologies Make Multi-Cable Networks Click

Network installers and IT administrators continue the move toward green. To recapture and use existing cabling infrastructures, and allocate the money in their budgets to purchase better devices, savvy thinkers are opting to deploy transceivers.

As you probably already know, a network transceiver spans the gap between Ethernet and coax, Ethernet and fiber, and between coax and fiber. It also links single-mode and multi-mode cabling deployments.

This article is going to pull together the pieces for a quick view resource. It’s not rocket science, but it is sophisticated enough where a one-stop reference might make life easier.

What is SPF+?

Small Form-factor Pluggable PLUS (SFP+) is a small, second-generation optical transceiver used to convert back and forth between optical and electrical signals. They plug into the SFP port of a network switch. It is used to connect to Fiber Channel and Gigabit Ethernet (GbE) optical fiber cables together in one network. They are plug-and-play devices following the trend toward simplification.

They are part of the GBIC transceiver family.

They are specificially designed to support 10G performance.

What is the difference between SFP and SFP+?

The primary difference between the two technologies is data rate. The SFP maxes out at 5 Gbps, while the SFP+ is designed to reach 10 Gbps. Both are used in applications for both telecom and datacom.

Impedance is better in the plus design.

Why is the faster 10 Gbps speed better?

At present, 1000BASE technologies are still in the 2.5 Gbps to 5 Gbps range, so no apparent difference. Over the next 5 years, though, expect devices to start cracking through that ceiling. The Internet, however, is a different matter.

What is 10 Gbps Internet?

Does 10 Gbps Internet even exist? Blame it on Bitcoin and the mining community because not everyone can afford to pay $300 a month for this kind of service. According to the media outlet Motherboard, ISPs began to offer this type of service sometime around 2016. One man with a radiology based business in Chattanooga TN was one of the first to purchase it.

Internet Speed TestTest Your Internet Speed.

G.Fast and VDSL2 are going to be the technologies that bring higher broadband speeds into reality. Stay tuned.

What is the difference between an SFP and a GBIC?GBIC vs SFP

Gigabit Interface Converters (GBIC) and SFP, their miniature cousins, are both optical transceivers. They convert signals to and from optical and electrical forms. The perception is that SFPs are an upgrade because their smaller size allows more of them to be deployed on a single switch than the GBIC.

If you already have a line card for GBICs, you can continue to fill it with GBIC compatible connections. If you don’t have a GBIC line card, then SFPs are a super-easy alternative.

What is a transceiver and what does it do?

“Transceiver” is a combination of the words transmitter and receiver, and the melding of that capability within a single housing is what you get within these devices.

An optical transceiver chip transmits and receives data over fiber instead of wire. Information pulses over light beamed along transparent fibers or cables.

Cable and technology glossary

To simplify this further, here are some of the alphabetical standards and a quick view of what each of signifies.

What does the “X” in 1000BASE-X mean?

The X refers to FAST ETHERNET. Also known as IEEE 802.3z, the X refers mostly to Ethernet transmission over fiber optic cable, although shielded copper is sometimes used. One of the many benefits is the multi-directional ability that this standard provides. You can use 1000BASE-X for both single-mode and multi-mode deployments.

Here are what some of the “X” combinations mean:

1000BASE Name Cable Specs aka Media Distances of up to:
CX Shielded copper 25 meters
KX Copper backplane 1 meter
SX Multi-mode fiber/ 770 to 860 nm wavelength FDDI 220 meters
OM1 275 meters
OM2 550 meters
LX Multi-mode fiber 1,270 to 1,355 nm wavelength 550 meters
LX Single-mode fiber 1,270 to 1,355 nm wavelength 5 kilometers
LX10 Single-mode fiber 1,260 to 1,360 nm wavelength 10 kilometers
EX Single-mode fiber 1,310 nm wavelength ~ 40 kilometers
ZX Single-mode fiber 1,550 nm wavelength ~ 70 kilometers
BX10 Single-mode fiber, single-strand: 1,480 to 1,500 nm downstream, 1,260 to 1,360 nm upstream 10 kilometers

The information in this table comes from IEEE 802.3-2008, clause 39.

What does the “T” in 1000BASE-T mean?

1000BASE-T refers to Cat5e, Cat6, and Cat7 Ethernet cable. No surprise there. These are cables that send signals using electrical energy. The same is true for coax. An SFP is needed between Ethernet and coax on the same switch, just to be clear.

More alphabet glossary, this time for “T.”

1000BASE Name Cable Specs aka Media Distances of up to:
T Twisted-pair cabling (Cat5, Cat5e, Cat6, and Cat7) 100 meters1
T1 Single, balanced twisted pair 15 meters
TX Twisted-pair cabling (Cat6 and Cat7) 100 meters1

1 These distances are stretched through the use of Ethernet Extender Kits and Injectors.

What does the “RHx” in 1000BASE-RHx mean?

1000BASE-RHX refers to optical plastic fiber.

1000BASE Name Cable Specs aka Media Distances of up to:
RHx Plastic optical fiber 15-50 meters

Final Thoughts

https://www.versatek.com/product-category/fiber-media-converter/micro-media-converters/

In addition to SFP micro transceivers, Versa Technology offers 100BaseFX and Fast Ethernet 10/100BaseTX media converters. These devices also connect different networks utilizing different mediums.

They support a maximum distance of 2km in a Multimode fiber connection and up to 80km in a Single mode fiber connection.

Versa Technology’s media converters are fully compliant with IEEE 802.3 and 802.3u standards.

Click here to learn more about our Media Converters and SFP devices.

VX-GPU2626 L2+ Managed PoE Switch

Product Release: VX-GPU2626 L2+ 24-Port Managed GbE UPOE Switch (2200W)

Switches like the VX-GPU2626 l2+ 24-port managed GbE UPOE switch, solidly place networks in the Power over Ethernet (PoE), Type 3 (IEEE 802.3at/af) category by providing 60W of power per port. This power cushion makes expanding or combining the latest device networks easier.

It doesn’t matter how “late” your company or your client comes to the (PoE) infrastructure table, now is always a good time to begin. Transitioning to this technology allows your customers to save money in lower installation costs because only one cable is needed to provide both data and power.

What does this newer standard offer?

Fire, HVAC, lighting, video cameras, wireless access points, and other systems often operate on individual networks, requiring separate administrators to manage and control. With new advances in IP infrastructure, isolated networks no longer have to be the norm.

                                        Power Electronics News, Power over Ethernet is in your future.

The added power at port allows the inclusion of many more devices on the same PoE network.

We’ll put our answer in context with the heftier grade of devices that are being released in the IoT movement. Higher or universal PoE offers twice the power per port as its predecessor, the Type 2, making possible a more sophisticated grade of device.

First, let’s take a minute to review the standards.

PoE redefined—PoE, PoE+, and UPoE

In a steady move toward higher and higher power levels, Power over Ethernet is solidly planted within Type 3 thresholds and advancing toward Type 4. Universal Power over Ethernet (UPOE) multiplies the power per port by 2. In other words, Type 2 / 30W per port has jumped to a solid Type 3/ 60W per port.

There are still some overlapping features as these capabilities are developed but here is a good synopsis of the 4 Types of PoE.

IEEE 802.3 StandardsDevices Supported by UPoE

Having 60W per port for 24 ports and data is a game changer in terms of network configurations. No more silo-ing of device networks. What types of devices will this switch support? Just about anything that requires high power PoE with power and remote network management capabilities.

1. Pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) / IP Cameras [and speed dome smart cameras]PTZ IP Camera

Hi-definition IP Cameras connect to the Internet and offer fine resolution so your client can monitor campus. These save storage by relying on motion sensor activation. That saves energy and storage, as HD consumes massive amounts of space and overwrites once it reaches capacity…not good when you need to check back for unusual activity.

The PTZ camera capabilities allow one unit to capture a lot more real estate. These features also require additional power. That’s why a better camera on 60W per port can actually save money. The PTZ makes it possible to cover large areas and zoom in on activity hot spots.

2. Wireless Access Points (WAPs)

As more devices connect, the demand for more responsive, higher capacity Wi-Fi coverage will continue to increase. Dual radio frequency WAPs can link together easily on this 24-port managed switch.

3. Biometric ClocksBiometric Clock

Biometric time clocks used by employees at entrances in high security areas allow companies to monitor activity. These units are also used to clock in and out using a fingerprint scan or other means.

4. Thin Clients

Thin clients are computers that do not have an internal disk or operating system to boot from. Instead, they connect to a server upon bootup to download a desktop OS. Thin clients have smaller footprints and require lower power.

Think of an Apple TV or Amazon FireTV acting as a computer. Versa has worked with large operations that use PoE switches to power thin clients.

5. Digital SignageDigital Signage

Signs placed on the sides or tops of skyscrapers connect easily through the use of PoE injectors and extenders to receive 60W of power at port.

This type of switch adapts to your need with full data and power requirements. The beauty of a managed switch is you can turn off individual ports. This capability helps to access remote technology like digital signage.

Nobody wants to climb down a building in the middle of the night because a sign is malfunctioning.

These UPOE devices are moving us steadily into a connected ecosystem. Here are some specifics and features you get with the VX-GPU2626.

Key features of the VX-GPU2626

The 2626 is an L2+ Managed UPOE Switch. Admins can save time and energy with the adaptability of managed switches. When offered a choice, managed switches are definitely the way to go.

The L2 feature works with MAC addresses and unique in-network identifiers, while L3 works with IP addresses. This switch offers the best of both. Since the IoT is ramping up, L3 features will become a critical functionality for moving data to and from devices and the Internet.

Static Routing delivers better cost performance and lower total cost of ownership in Enterprise networks via fiber or copper connections.

The VX-GPU2626 supports IEEE 802.3at/af standards, PoE Types 2 and 3 using RJ45 connectors.

VX-GPU2626 Power Supply

The unit also includes two 1100W power supply units with the option of purchasing an additional power supply unit to use as a backup power supply.

Other Features for Enterprise-Class Deployment

  • HW performance and environmental flexibility for SMBs and Enterprises.
  • Comprehensive security: IP source guard and ACL to guard your network from unauthorized access.
  • Easy to Install, Configure and Troubleshoot Through the Device Management System (DMS)
  • DMS provides embedded functions to facilitate devices management at anytime and anywhere.
  • Intuitive for those who hate reading manuals. 🙂 Simple to use, and lower total cost of ownership.
  • Energy-efficient. Reduces power consumption and lower the TCO with IEEE’s 802.3az Energy Efficient Ethernet features.

Final Thoughts

As end-users have realized the efficiency both of installation and operational savings, they continue to find themselves drawn to the PoE and now UPOE solution more and more. Getting management to sign-off on purchase requests and work orders is so much easier when the costs savings are so good.

The manufacturing community has also capitalized on this connected technology in order to stay competitive and are delivering better products. That’s what is now funneling into the IoT.

The VX-GPU2626 offers the next stage of Ethernet —Universal PoE at up to 60W of power per device along with data over the same Cat6 and 6a [4-pair].

Click here, if you are considering a purchase of the VX-GPU2626, and need a spec sheet.

Network Expert Interview | What's on the Horizon

Networking Expert Interview | What’s on the Horizon

As part and parcel of providing exceptional support, and developing compelling technology, we’ve needed to attract and retain top network and IT talent.

This week, we wanted to take time to share some detailed insights from one of our outstanding analysts that’s helped to raise the bar for our whole team time and time again.

In fact, if you’ve called in for support once or twice, it’s quite possibly you’ve spoken to him yourself. We’re proud to feature our very own Bung Vong this week.

Bung is a total technology geek and super-enjoys helping our valued installer clientele find better, faster ways to get the job done. When you look good, he looks good.

More specifically, we wanted to capitalize on Bung’s knowledge of emerging trends so that you (our loyal readers) will be well-equipped and prepared for the “next big things” in the network installation space.

So let’s dive in!

quoteVersatek: Thanks for taking a little time away from helping customers to share your expertise on the blog Bung. Before we get started, can you share a little background on how you got started here at Versa Technology?

Bung: Happy to do so!

I was actually employed by a company specializing in external hard drive enclosures that rented a small office space in the same warehouse Versa Technology used. As the hard drive enclosures business started dwindling, Versa Technology’s business grew exponentially and required additional staff to help with shipping as well as customer support. I was eventually brought on board in August 2007 to assist with order processing and shipping.

Versatek: How did you get into networking? Were you that kid growing up who took apart gadgets to see how they worked?

Bung: Networking was actually never my intended field, but it fit the bill.

When I was about 3 or 4 years old, I started playing with my father’s tools that were used at the shipyard he worked for. Everything from rivet guns, plasma cutters, MIG welders, metal sheers and all the sorts of industrial tools.Tool

I rebuilt my first 1.8L 4 cylinder engine when I was 15. This was all purely based on curiosity and the eagerness to understand how things worked. I liked learning about the intended purpose of each component of a system, the weak links, maintenance, application and troubleshooting.

I found myself needing more of a challenge and ended up enrolling in two trade schools for IT. The first one filed for bankruptcy after my first month of attendance. And the second, well, let’s just say I don’t recommend enrolling in trade schools for IT or anything computer related.

With $12k in debt and little to no knowledge in networking, I decided self study would be the way to go. Here I am now, still learning the same way I have been ever since I was a kid.

Versatek: Silicon Valley isn’t the only place in CA where tech is booming, we’ve noticed a lot of other technology companies gaining steam right here in LA. Can you let us know how the industry seems to be doing in your eyes?

Bung: Sure, you’re right! We’ve been noticing a high demand and trend moving towards G.Fast. I’d encourage our readers to check out the following resources if they’re not already up to speed on the G.Fast revolution!

In fact, we’ve been receiving a ton of inquiries lately that are based on when we’ll be releasing our G.Fast products. Whether it’s a G.Fast DSLAM, G.Fast CPE or G.Fast SFP module, network service providers want them now and they don’t want to wait!

In case you’re new to the installation or broadband game, G.fast is the latest evolution of DSL. It’s ultrafast–400 Mbps download speeds over 100 meters [330 feet]–and these speeds can be achieved over existing copper wiring. That means recabling is unnecessary in many cases. Lower infrastructure costs make doing upgrades extremely appealing to decision makers. It’s a powerfully big bang for the new-technology buck.LED Lighting

Another trend picking up a lot of steam is the demand for high power PoE injectors, splitters and switches by LED lighting companies, display companies (LED signs in the malls) as well as home automation service providers. Alarm companies such as Bay Alarm have also been involved in using such products as well.

Versatek: Definitely lots to think about as we get closer and closer to 2018. Bung, thanks so much for your time today!

Bung: My pleasure. Looking forward to speaking with any of our readers that may call in and get me on the line!

Final Thoughts

There are plenty of people reading this article, who understand how valuable the self study process can be.

Technology, for many of us, goes beyond the designation of a job. It’s a passion. Some of us set out with that goal specifically in mind, while others find their way here over time.

Bung exemplifies the brilliance and passion we instill in every corner of our business. He embodies the underlying fascination to learn how things work and how we can make them better, faster, and and more accessible (and affordable).

The G.Fast movement reflects that innovative frugality. Take Ethernet technology, and find new and better ways to maximize what this prolific technology can do.

Stay tuned for the release of our G.Fast line of products. If you have questions about this or any of our product lines, feel free to reach out. Either Bung or one of our other analysts will be happy to help.

Contact us

VX-GPU2626 | Crushing the Competition

Managed switches are on the rise, and showing no sign of slowing down. Their uses are many, but one fast-growing industry where managed switches truly shine is the PoE lighting vertical.

We’ve been building and providing top-notch equipment for the network professional and installer community for over 21 years. So it should come as no surprise that we’re right in the thick of things when it comes to managed switches.

We’re proud to showcase our proprietary managed switch, the VX-GPU2626. Taking aim directly at the Cisco 3850, the VX-GPU2626 delivers the same quality at a fraction of the cost.

But don’t just take our word for it. PoE lighting industry expert Cliff Wilson of GENISYS was kind enough to share his thoughts as well.

Let’s Talk Specifications

The VX-GPU2626 is an L2+ Managed UPOE Switch with 24 ports. UPOE (Universal Power over Ethernet) is basically PoE on steroids.

It means that the power provided can get up to 60 watts per port. UPOE also enables better functionality with L3 features like a static routing.

The L2 layer is optimized for better data transfer between adjacent nodes on the same LAN.

VX-GPU2626 Port WattageIt also offers 2 Combo GbE RJ45/SFP ports and an RJ45 Console port. The unit includes two 1100W power supply units. If you need backup power supplies we have an additional power supply units available for purchase.

The VX-GPU2626 high HW performance and environment flexibility make it ideal for SMBs and Enterprises alike. Management simplicity, an intuitive user experience, and a lower total cost of ownership make for a compelling package.

The embedded Device Managed System is designed to be extremely easy-to-use. Managing and installing a variety of devices couldn’t be simpler. IP phones, IP cameras, high power wireless APs and LED lighting systems are all on the menu.

Feature-Rich Ethernet Switch for Enterprise-Class

The VX-GPU2626 has a bevy of other benefits that are particularly well suited for enterprise clients.

One of the most appealing is a comprehensive suite of security capabilities. These features include IP source guard and an access control list (ACL) to guard your network from unauthorized access.

The ACL allows traffic blocking to occur at the switch level, thus further securing sensitive areas of your client’s network (servers, etc).

Another tangible benefit is the ease of use. The VX-GPU2626 is simple to install and configure. If you have to have someone in-house install the unit, they’ll be able to plug-it into your network without a Masters in IT or an Electrician certification.

Last but not least, troubleshooting is even made easier through our intuitive Device Management System (DMS). Our DMS facilitates remote device management. Admins can check on any number of data points, anytime, anywhere.

That’s pretty helpful when a network administrator needs to check on something in the middle of the night. Now they won’t need to leave home to get the lowdown.

  • L2+ Managed features provide easier manageability, robust security, and Quality of Service (QoS).
  • Built-in Device Management System (DMS)
  • DHCP Server
  • IPv4/IPv6 Management
  • PoE Port configuration and scheduling
  • Dual hot-swappable 2200W power supplies
  • Support Universal Power over Ethernet (UPOE), 60W, standard
  • IEEE 802.3az EEE Energy Efficient Ethernet standard for green Ethernet

The complexities are handled when you choose the VX-GPU2626. You just need to plug it in.

Energy Efficient Design and Cost of Ownership

The VX-GPU2626 leverages the latest technology to lower energy consumption. Thus its total cost of ownership (TCO) comes in substantially lower than Cisco’s 3850, while still maintaining IEEE 802.3az compliance.

UPOE not only jacks up the power output of each port, but it also enables the use of many power saving features that the latest IP devices offer. Power scheduling, custom PoE configurations and the like are all possibilities to consider.

At the end of the day though, the truth is in the numbers.

VX-GPU2626 VS. Cisco 3850Cisco’s 3850 comes in at an MSRP of around $6k. That doesn’t include the support contracts that you may be required to purchase as well.

Our VX-GPU2626 only MSRPs for $1750. Not too shabby.

Considering that the PoE lighting industry relies on scalability, and cost is measured by the port, let’s take a look at the numbers. Our device costs ~$70/port, while Cisco’s is closer to $250/port.

So when engineers are speccing a PoE lighting project, it starts making a lot more sense for them to consider our much more affordable solution for scaled lighting installations.

This of course compounds with the substantial savings of going with PoE lighting in the first place. The efficiency of PoE truly shines when it comes to these installations.

Simply put: a regular AC power wall jack needs to have an open line of 120W at all times. PoE on the other hand, only delivers power as needed. PoE lighting is considered up to 99% efficient, while AC power is only around 60% efficient. For those of you that are curious, here’s a paper that does a deep dive on the subject.

Final Thoughts

We’re excited to be helping with so many PoE lighting installations, and we know that the VX-GPU2626 will continue to be a frontrunner in the space.

So when you find yourself pitching an upsell to a client, be sure to consider the substantial cost-savings of choosing our managed PoE switches.

If you have any further questions on how to pair the VX-GPU2626 with other parts of a PoE lighting installation (or any other network type for that matter), be sure to give us a call.

Contact usWe’d be more than happy to help you.

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