PoE Switches

Industrial PoE Switches -- Power and Data over One Cable

The latest security and surveillance cameras, digital signs, and wireless access points rely on Power over Ethernet (PoE) as a convenient method for communicating with a network while simultaneously receiving power. PoE technology passes electrical power and data over the same CAT 5 Ethernet cable, eliminating the need for a separate power line. The PoE standard, as specified in IEEE 802.3at, provides up to 15.4 watts of DC power to each device. The newer PoE+ or PoE plus standard serves up 25.5 watts. PoE allows long cable runs up to 330 feet (100 meters).

How Do PoE Switches Work?

Managed PoE switches include standard Layer 2 functions, such as VLAN, QoS, IGMP, rapid spanning tree, redundancy, and security. They also include power management features enabling network administrators to remotely access a wide range of capabilities to configure, manage, and monitor the network.

A PoE ping alarm command turns on or off any PoE port. Cycling power to a PD (powered device) in this manner resets or reboots a device. Alternatively, you can program the switch to power recycle a specific PoE port at regular intervals. For energy savings, a scheduler in the web console interface allows you to appoint any date and time to enable or disable a PoE port. For example, you could turn off PoE lighting during the daytime hours. A simple unmanaged PoE switch cannot perform these types of functions.

Westward Sales offers a full line of industrial-grade managed and unmanaged PoE switches, boasting a variety of port counts, mounting options, and power configurations. Choose from Fast Ethernet and Gigabit Ethernet speeds with or without fiber-optic ports. Most PoE switches accept a 48-volt power input. However, our low-power versions (part number suffix -24) will operate with the 24 VDC power sources commonly found in industrial control cabinets. And, they may be powered by 12-volt batteries. These versions are a great choice for solar-powered systems.

Select the Right Gear for your Network

Like all of our networking equipment, our managed and unmanaged PoE switches are built to withstand the toughest conditions. Outdoor panels and dirty factory floors are no match for these devices. To learn more or get a detailed quote, contact the networking pros at Westward Sales. Their experience will help you select the right Ethernet switch for the job.

What is a PoE Switch?

In a nutshell, a PoE switch is designed to increase efficiency across industrial networks. What makes a PoE switch unique is that it has a Power over Ethernet injection built in. PoE switches consolidate functions to allow users to simply connect other network devices to the switch as they normally would, and the switch will automatically detect whether they are POE-compatible and enable power accordingly. Our PoE switches are available to suit all uses and functions, ranging from low-cost, unmanaged switches with a few ports to complex, multi-port systems with sophisticated management.

Industrial PoE Switches

PoE Switches offer a variety of benefits to your network structure. They are flexible, simple to use and manage, and best of all, are cost-efficient because they mitigate the need for additional cable purchases or installation. Our industrial PoE switches are built to hold up during heavy use.

Who Can Benefit the Most from These Switches?

These switches can benefit various industries and applications, particularly those requiring efficient power delivery and data transmission. Here's a breakdown of who can benefit the most:

IT and Networking Professionals

Powered switches simplify network infrastructure by combining power and data over a single Ethernet cable. This integration reduces the need for separate power sources, streamlining network setups and cutting costs.
Security Systems Integrators

PoE switches are indispensable in security installations, as they power devices such as IP cameras, access control systems, and intercoms. By eliminating the need for separate power supplies at each device location, these switches reduce costs and offer greater flexibility in deployment.

Telecommunications Providers

Essential for powering VoIP phones, wireless access points, and other networking devices, PoE switches ensure reliable power delivery in telecommunications setups. This reliability minimizes downtime and ensures continuous service availability. Smart Building and Home Automation. Additionally, these switches are vital in smart building and home automation systems, powering devices like smart lighting, thermostats, sensors, and actuators. 

Centralized power management through a PoE switch simplifies installation and maintenance, enabling more advanced automation capabilities.

Education Institutions

These switches are beneficial in educational settings for powering IP-based devices such as IP phones, wireless access points, and IP cameras. They offer a cost-effective solution for deploying and managing network infrastructure across campuses and educational facilities.

Healthcare Facilities

Managed switches are standard in healthcare environments to power IP-based devices like VoIP phones, nurse call systems, patient monitoring devices, and access control systems. Their ability to provide power and data over a single cable enhances flexibility and simplifies installation.

Retail and Hospitality

An Ethernet PoE switch is valuable for powering POS terminals, digital signage, security cameras, and Wi-Fi access points in retail and hospitality environments. They enable efficient deployment of network infrastructure while minimizing cable clutter and installation costs.
Industrial Automation

These switches find applications in industrial environments for powering IP-enabled devices such as industrial cameras, sensors, and control systems. They simplify installation and maintenance in challenging industrial settings while ensuring reliable power delivery.

In summary, the versatility, cost-effectiveness, and simplified installation of the best PoE switches make them indispensable in modern network infrastructures across various industries and applications.

Only Choose the Industry’s Finest

Are you seeking expert assistance with these highly powered switches? Look no further! Westward Sales is your trusted partner for all your Power over Ethernet switch needs. Contact us today to discuss your project, and let us help you streamline your network infrastructure with reliable PoE solutions.

Reach out to Westward Sales now for expert guidance and support! Whether you're in IT, security, telecommunications, or any other industry, our team is ready to help you select the ideal PoE switches for your specific applications.