What’s Driving the Future of PoE?

IoT takes PoE to the edge

As connected devices continue to multiply across the cyber landscape, traditional compute/storage models cannot handle the sheer volume of data created. PoE, however, is well adapted to support a high-density, widely distributed network. Whether in buildings, across campuses or throughout smart cities, the time and cost benefits of combining power and data in one cable run are attractive and can support more sustainable outcomes. As the link distances increase, look for mid-span applications—which inject power between the switch and endpoint instead of at the switch—to pick up as well.

The long-term power of Category 6A

Regardless of how far out the devices need to be located, network designers will need a logical structured cabling strategy to support tomorrow’s sprawling IoT/IIoT landscape. As a technology that incorporates Category 6A Ethernet, PoE++ is a pretty ideal solution. Cat 6A is already recommended for the horizontal cabling that branches out to specific networks on each floor within the building structure. With the ability to support 10G backhaul, extended reach (338 feet) and power handling up to 100 W, Cat 6A-enabled PoE++ is a good match for higher-powered devices that are located farther from the switch.

With most of the indoor PoE deployed in the ceiling, network managers have better accessibility—making it easier to onboard new devices. With a well-designed structured cabling design, they can also reduce the power usage per port by shortening the PoE cable runs.

Global compatibility

One other thing PoE has going for it is its nearly global compatibility with different regional power standards, plug types and devices. The technology can be used with any 110- or 220-volt (U.S.-based) system, as well as the 230 V environments supported in other countries. The same is true of the ac frequencies; PoE supports 50 and 60 hertz. The added ability to work with various wireless technologies—Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, BLE, Zigbee, etc.—gives network managers a unifying strategy for connecting, powering and supporting their network systems.  

The continued greening of IT

Thanks to data-driven insights over the past decade, society is tightening the reins on power consumption. This awareness gave rise to Energy Efficient Ethernet (IEEE 802.3az). Also known as Green Ethernet, the technology leverages enhancements to the twisted-pair and backplane of Ethernet computer networking to reduce power consumption during periods of low data activity. It can enable networks to reduce their power draw up to 50 percent or more while retaining full compatibility with existing equipment.²

The best is yet to come

PoE technology has come a long way since 2003. According to a new report from Guidehouse Insights, the PoE market is anticipated to grow from $113.8 million in 2021 to $614.9 million by the end of 2030 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 20.6 percent.³ Based on the trends that are fueling its development and uptake in the market, CommScope suggests that PoE’s best years are still ahead.

Since its introduction in 2003, CommScope has invested in developing the infrastructure strategies and solutions that enable our customers to leverage the full potential of PoE. Along the way, we’ve accumulated a deep working knowledge of the technology and where it’s going. For a deeper dive into the subject, we recommend taking a look at our new PoE Fact File.

Wherever your network is headed, chances are—CommScope is already there.