Ethernet switch power supply

Power over Ethernet (PoE) is the ability to send low-voltage power through the same twisted pair copper cable used to transmit and receive data. This function is used to power wireless access points (APs), IP phones, and numerous IoT devices.

If no PoE of any capacity is required, then non PoE switches are a cheaper option. However, for users who require PoE, additional steps are required to ensure that the PoE endpoint receives sufficient power.

The PoE standard specified by IEEE specifies the maximum wattage that can be transmitted through copper cables. Depending on the terminal, more or less power may be required. For example, a typical IP phone can be powered by PoE using a PoE port that can transmit 15.4 watts (W) of power. On the other hand, modern Wi Fi 6 and Wi Fi 6E aps may require more power to operate. Therefore, it is not enough to only provide PoE switches that meet the IEEE 802.3af standard.

Fixed, modular, and stacked switches

From a physical perspective, there are three different types of hardware configurations for network switches:

Fix the switch. Using fixed switches, ports, interfaces, power supplies, and cooling fans are all fixed settings and cannot be changed, added, or changed. In addition, fixed switches cannot be stacked on other switches to create a single logical switch for management.

Stackable switches. A stackable switch is a fixed switch that includes a backplane cable interface that connects multiple switches together and consists of two or more physical switches to form a logical switch. This can improve the speed of switch to switch data transmission and simplify stack management, as multiple physical switches can be managed like a single switch. Some stackable switches can also share power between each stack. Therefore, if a switch in the stack experiences a power failure, it can continue to operate by obtaining unused power capacity from other switches in the stack.

Modular switch. Modular or chassis based switches provide the ability to insert switch cards into large fixed shaped chassis that can support two or more cards. This type of switch provides maximum flexibility and scalability, as the network switch interface can be switched as needed. In addition, if a card on the module switch fails, on-site technicians can hot swap the faulty card without causing the entire switch to malfunction. Finally, when upgrades are needed or malfunctions occur, modular switches are usually able to replace power supplies and cooling fans.