3Com SA has introduced a Power over Ethernet (PoE) family of networking products based on the IEEE P802.af draft specification.
A key feature of this range is that any product combination can be ubiquitously deployed throughout a network, providing network managers with intelligent detection of powered devices, centralised management and improved availability.
A single cable can, therefore, now provide standards-based, intelligent power and data connectivity. This also means that 3Com products can be deployed with any other IEEE P802.af compliant, driving down total cost of ownership (TCO).
The new SuperStack 3 Switch 4400 PWR is a key product in the PoE range and offers users the combination of a "power source" IEEE P802.af with 3Com`s 10/100 switch`s functionality.
"The SuperStack 3 Switch 4400 PWR can also be connected into a XRN (eXpandable Resilient Networking) technology-based backbone, which provides higher availability for optimal network uptime," comments Wolfgang Held, network consultant at 3Com SA.
An enhanced version of 3Com`s NBX Networked Telephony family also forms part of the PoE range and directly supports IEEE P802.af draft specification.
3Com`s recently released Wireless LAN access points are also members of the PoE family. These access points obtain power from any P802.af compliant connection, which includes the SuperStack 3 4400 PWR Switch.
"3Com has taken a corporate-wide, integrated approach to Power over Ethernet, providing users with plug-and-play compatibility while at the same time significantly lowering the total cost ownership of their networks," says Held.
Supporting PoE is 3Com`s Network Jack, a "in the wall` Ethernet switch that provides power to an attached device, such as an IP telephone handset, therefore, reducing cabling cost.
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