PoE switches - Why is the perfect solution for powering devices?

Layer 2 POE switch 

PoE switches are in demand in our connected world. It emerged as a highly efficient solution for various environments. The L2-POE switch is an excellent example of Syrotech's commitment to providing high-quality networking solutions. Traditional switches cannot compare with their advanced functionality design.

L2 POE switches key features

Port configuration

This PoE switch provides 8 10/100/1000Mbps PoE ports and 2 gigabit SFP ports. These ports allow connecting many devices, including PoE-enabled devices and high-speed uplink connections through SFP modules.

Extended power distance

With the ability to transfer power and data over distances of up to 100 meters, PoE switches can power devices in various locations. This extended range eliminates the need for extra power sources and simplifies the network infrastructure.

Powering wireless APs and IP surveillance

PoE switches provide power to deliver power to wireless APs and IP surveillance cameras. By using Cat5 cables, these switches enable power transmission to devices without the need for separate power adapters, reducing clutter and streamlining installations.

Store-and-forward switching

The switching method based on store-and-forward ensures reliable data transmission, preventing potential packet errors and improving network performance. This approach allows the switch to verify the integrity of received packets before forwarding them, enhancing network efficiency.

LED indicators

Each port of the PoE switch with an LED indicator, provides visual feedback on the port's status. This feature facilitates easy monitoring and troubleshooting, allowing network administrators to identify problems.

POE switches high bandwidth

With a total bandwidth of 20Gbps, the L2-POE switch offers ample capacity for handling large data transfers and accommodating many connected devices. This high bandwidth ensures smooth and uninterrupted network performance, even in demanding environments.

POE switches web management

PoE switches support L2 web management, enabling administrators to configure and check the switch through a web interface. This intuitive management interface simplifies network administration tasks, including VLAN setup, port configuration, and QoS prioritization.

Automatic detection of powered device class

The switch detects the PoE class level of connected Powered Devices (PDs), allowing for efficient power allocation and optimal performance. This feature ensures device receives the appropriate power supply without overloading the switch or risking device damage.

Single-output automatic protection

PoE switches incorporate a self-recovery capability and support single-output automatic protection. This functionality safeguards the switch and connected devices against potential power surges, ensuring long-term reliability and protection against electrical faults.

Plug and play

PoE switches are simple to set up and use. Their functionality lets users connect their devices without complex configurations. This convenience saves time and effort, especially in environments with many devices.

As for physical specifications, the switch has 8 10/100/1000Mbps Auto-Negotiation RJ45 ports for PoE connectivity. The network interface supports 100BASE-T/1000BASE-TX RJ-45 with full-duplex capabilities, ensuring high-speed data transfers. The switch's largest power supply is 150 Watts, providing ample power for the connected PoE devices. The switch operates between 32°F and 131°F (0°C to 55°C). Allows it to function in various environmental conditions. It has an operating humidity range of 10% to 90% without condensation.

Aspects of PoE Switches

Network delay

Microseconds represent the delay between a data packet's source and destination. In the case of this PoE switch, the largest network delay for packets ranging from 100 to 100Mbps is 20 microseconds, for 64-byte packet sizes. This low network delay ensures minimal latency and quick data transmission, promoting efficient communication and responsiveness within the network.

POE switches buffer memory

The switch has 96KB of buffer memory, which serves as a temporary storage space for incoming and outgoing data packets.  During times of heavy traffic or temporary unavailability, buffer memory holds packets pending to prevent network congestion. With an ample buffer memory size of 96KB, the PoE switch can manage and focus on network traffic, preventing data loss and ensuring smooth data transmission.

Address database size

The address database size of the PoE switch refers to the number of Media Access Control (MAC) addresses it can store and manage. In this case, the switch supports an address database size of 1,024 MAC frames. MAC addresses are unique identifiers assigned to network devices, and the switch uses this information to direct data packets to the appropriate destination. The switch handles many connected devices with its large address database, supporting extensive network deployments.

Filtering and Transmission Rate

The filtering and transmission rate determines the greatest number of packets a switch can process and send per second. The PoE switch provides the following rates:

·         For 10Mbps ports, the most rate is 14,800 packets per second (PPS).

·         In 100Mbps ports, the maximum rate is 148,800pps.

·         For 1000Mbps ports (Gigabit Ethernet), the most rate is 1,488,000pps.

These rates show the switch's capability to handle and send data packets at high speeds, ensuring efficient data flow within the network. Streaming video, file transfers, and real-time communication are applications that enjoy a high transmission rate.

POE switches network standard and protocol

The PoE switch complies with several network standards and protocols, including:

·         IEEE 802.3i- This standard defines the 10BASE-T Ethernet, known as the standard for transmitting data at 10Mbps over twisted-pair copper cables.

·         Power over Ethernet IEEE 802.3af - This standard means delivering power over Ethernet cables, allowing devices to receive power along with data through a single network cable.

·         IEEE 802.3x Flow Control- This protocol enables flow control mechanisms to manage data transmission between devices, ensuring smooth and reliable communication by preventing data loss or congestion.

·         IEEE 802.3u- This standard specifies the 100BASE-TX Fast Ethernet, which allows data transmission at 100Mbps over twisted-pair copper cables.

By adhering to these standards and protocols, the PoE switch ensures compatibility and interoperability with various network devices and enables seamless integration into existing network infrastructures. It provides a standardized and reliable power delivery mechanism for PoE-enabled devices, simplifying installation and reducing the need for separate power sources.

A focus on energy efficiency is part of their mission. By utilizing advanced power management mechanisms, these switches adjust power consumption based on device requirements. This feature reduces energy costs and contributes to a greener and more sustainable network infrastructure. Besides its technical prowess, it offers excellent customer support. It has a reputation for providing prompt and knowledgeable technical help to its customers. 

When troubleshooting connectivity issues or seeking guidance on network configurations, users can rely on Syrotech's support team to deliver effective solutions and ensure a positive user experience. Furthermore, it offers varying port configurations and power budgets to cater to diverse network requirements. From compact switches with a few PoE ports to enterprise-grade switches with many PoE ports and high-power budgets, it has a solution for every scale of deployment.

Conclusion

PoE switches follow industry safety standards, ensuring the safe delivery of power to connected devices. A short-circuit, overload, and overvoltage protection feature protects the switch and the connected devices. Using PoE switches reduces cable clutter in network installations. It is not required to have separate power cords, adapters, or outlets because Ethernet cables can carry data and power. It simplifies cable management, improves aesthetics, and reduces the risk of cable damage or tripping hazards. They enable remote installations of devices in locations where access to power outlets is impractical.

This capability is particularly beneficial for deploying devices in outdoor areas, ceilings, or other hard-to-reach locations. It simplifies installation and maintenance, saving time and effort for network administrators. New standards and advancements are being introduced to PoE technology all the time. By investing in PoE switches, organizations future-proof their network infrastructure and ensure compatibility with upcoming PoE devices. This scalability and future-proofing help protect the organization's investment and enable seamless integration of new technologies as they emerge.