The Truth Behind Power over Ethernet: 5 Common Myths Debunked
April 10, 2018
Power over Ethernet is most commonly known for powering VoIP phones and IP security cameras, but PoE technology can power and transmit data for an entire building. Despite the myths circulating that PoE is not reliable and doesn’t meet regulations, PoE is an incredibly viable option for powering your next smart building.
We’re debunking five of the most common PoE myths, and five of the biggest concerns businesses have when considering PoE as their next IoT system.
Myth 1: PoE is Not Reliable
One of the biggest objections when it comes to enabling a building with PoE is that it is not a reliable technology. The truth is, Power over Ethernet is an incredibly reliable technology for a variety of reasons.
PoE technology relies on Ethernet, so it’s simply a new take on a vetted technology. Managing Ethernet is native IT, which means any local IT team can install and troubleshoot PoE.
PoE is a wired technology with limited interference and enhanced security features. While the technology does rely on a direct wired connection, that doesn’t make Power over Ethernet any less flexible than comparable wireless technologies. Igor’s open API allows companies to develop innovative ways to use PoE.
Myth 2: You Can’t Outfit a Building with PoE
It is possible to outfit an entire building with PoE. In fact, Power over Ethernet is revolutionizing smart buildings. While VoIP phones and IP security cameras were just the start of PoE, the technology now enables countless more devices.
PoE can be used for human-centric lighting, occupancy sensors, asset tracking, security cameras, access control and more. Most manufacturer’s LED lights will work seamlessly with Igor’s platform. The most valuable feature of PoE is that all of these systems communicate directly through the same protocol.
On top of being compatible with various devices, Igor’s PoE platform also includes application partners which allow for more flexibility of your PoE ecosystem.
See the capabilities of a smart building powered by PoE.
Myth 3: PoE Doesn’t Meet Regulations
Igor’s Power over Ethernet technology meets energy efficiency, emergency lighting and fire safety regulations including ASHRAE 90.1, Title 24, IEEE standards, NFPA NEC, and UL924.
Myth 4: Power over Ethernet Technology Won’t Last
Ethernet has been around since 1973, in that 45 years the applications of Ethernet have continued to grow. There is no reason to expect that will change. In 2018, Ethernet continues to have strong advantages over WiFi.
As mentioned above, Ethernet greatly reduces interference when compared to a typical wireless IoT system. PoE makes it simple to expand the network with more devices and is easily adaptable to use for a variety of devices including but not limited to:
- LED lights
- Access points
- Cameras
- VoIP
- HVAC systems
- Occupancy sensors
Igor’s data analytics platform is AI ready to turn a building’s IoT data into actionable insights. The machine learning algorithm helps building managers identify inefficiencies and determine if the wrong data is being collected, the wrong tools are being used or the wrong people are in place to handle the data.
Myth 5: Igor’s PoE Technology Only Controls Lights
Igor is so much more than smart lighting technology. Igor is a hardware, software and analytics solution.
Hardware: The Igor Node
Igor’s node acts as an IoT hub by receiving power and data from the network switch and passing it to connected devices. As devices are connected, the Igor network automatically discovers them for easy plug-and-play functionality.
Software and Analytics
Once devices are discovered, the Igor user interface, accessible on any smart device, makes it easy to manage an entire IoT ecosystem. With each PoE device powered (and collecting data) via Ethernet the sheer amount of incoming data can become overwhelming. But previously independent systems can now communicate, and buildings can become more efficient with Igor’s Software Gateway.
PoE is a Realistic IoT Option for your Building
Power over Ethernet has been the target of many misleading statements, but in reality, PoE is a reliable IoT solution which meets regulations and has many capabilities beyond lighting.
Igor’s Power over Ethernet solution enables businesses to innovate by providing more actionable data. With Igor’s hardware, software and analytics working together, Power over Ethernet is not only attainable for your next building project, but a smart choice for future proofing your building. Sign up for the Igor newsletter to learn more about PoE technology.