What is PoE? How can I benefit from the Cat5 Cable?

March 4, 2015

Power over Ethernet (PoE) lighting solutions revolutionize the way users interact with lighting systems, giving control back into the hands of the user. With Igor’s PoE technology, lighting systems can be controlled and monitored in an innovative fashion like never before, tailored to the needs of specific entities such as businesses, hospitals, apartment buildings, office buildings and more—minimizing energy costs and maximizing lighting controls and efficiencies.

How does PoE work? The way PoE functions is through the dual transmission of data and electricity over an Ethernet cable. The Category 5 or Cat5 cable, which replaces traditional power wiring, transmits both power and data to smart fixtures such as LED lights from a PoE switch such as the Cisco Catalyst 3850-X and 3560-X Series Power over Ethernet (PoE) Switches or Cisco Catalyst Digital Building Series Switch.

LED systems—or light-emitting diodes—are 60% more energy efficient than incandescent or florescent lights. In addition to their lower energy consumption, they possess longer life and faster speed of operation or response time (switching). The LED system emits light from a semiconductor chip, which can be readily connected to data.

The Cat5 cable is what makes PoE technology possible. Cat5 combines both the power and data into one cable which saves the builder tremendously on wiring costs. With the flexibility of PoE and UPoE, we are now able to run up to 60 watts of energy through Ethernet, supporting larger and more complex energy needs.

As a result of the increased user control over costs and energy consumption, the Igor solution can reduce energy costs in a commercial space, such as an office, up to 75-80%. In addition to traditional energy savings, building owners can save 75-80% on installation costs through the elimination of traditional AC high voltage power to each light saving in expensive unionized electrician labor costs.

“LEDs…use at least 75% less energy and last 25 times longer than incandescent lighting.” -U.S. Department of Energy

In an indication of the future of LED lighting systems, the U.S. Department of Energy predicts that LED lights will encompass 74% of the market by 2030. This is just a snapshot of where the PoE industry is headed and how building owner and operators can utilize Igor’s PoE lighting technology to capture tremendous savings and control.

For more information about how Igor can help you make the most of your Cat5 Cable, contact us.