Senior VP Charlie Giancarlo Discusses How Power over Ethernet in Cisco Catalyst Intelligent Switches Brings New Levels of Network Convergence

February 17, 2004

This week, Cisco Systems announced the delivery of IEEE 802.3af compliant Power over Ethernet (PoE) products across its family of Catalyst Intelligent Switching products. News@Cisco asked Charles H. Giancarlo, senior vice-president and general manager of product development, to provide some insight into what the news means for Cisco and its customers.

What is Power over Ethernet (PoE)?

Charlie Giancarlo: Power over Ethernet promises to create a new world of networked appliances by providing power as well as data connectivity over existing Ethernet cables. Initially introduced by Cisco as inline power in the year 2000, this technology innovation has evolved into a standard called IEEE 802.3af Power over Ethernet (PoE). PoE works by injecting DC power over the same copper wires as Ethernet. Once the power reaches a PoE-compatible end device, it is separated out to power the device-the data is used for connectivity.

Why is PoE important?

Giancarlo: Initially developed to support IP telephones and wireless LAN access points, Power over Ethernet represents one of the most significant innovations in the LAN industry. PoE extends the versatility of Ethernet by enabling new uses for the network and support for new applications and network-attached devices. The Cisco vision for convergence extends well beyond simply integrating voice onto IP networks. True network convergence is about bringing together many different networks and applications into a single resilient, integrated and adaptable intelligent information network. With the delivery of cross-portfolio, standards-based Power over Ethernet, we believe that network "convergence" takes on a whole new meaning.

Why is Cisco focusing on PoE?

Giancarlo: Cisco has been focusing on and shipping PoE products since 2000. In fact, Cisco was a pioneer in the delivery of Power over Ethernet and was pivotal in the development of the standard that is now known as IEEE 802.3af Power over Ethernet.

How widespread will PoE become?

Giancarlo: Cisco believes that PoE will become ubiquitous and extremely far-reaching. There are many possibilities beyond IP telephones and wireless access points. Many, if not all network-attached devices require local power for their operation. Power over Ethernet represents an opportunity not only to provide the connectivity that these devices need, but also to deliver power in a simplified, easy-to-manage environment. IP cameras, point of sale terminals and industrial automation products that take advantage of power delivery have already started to emerge. But the possibilities don't end there. Imagine being able to charge laptops, integrate security systems and automate buildings all over a universal connection - Ethernet. A whole new range of new, easy-to-install devices can be installed wherever an Ethernet cable can be deployed.

From a global perspective, PoE represents the only universal power standard in existence today. Currently, there are different power currents and plugs. PoE can deliver a universal voltage, current, and plug, simplifying the manufacture and deployment of devices around the world.

What are the benefits for Cisco customers?

Giancarlo: Cisco is focusing a lot of energy on PoE precisely because it has so many uses and clear advantages for customers. PoE reduces costs because it allows the use of the existing intelligent network infrastructure for a range of new devices and simplifies deployment of powered devices. Installation costs are further reduced because AC outlets-typically costing upwards of $350 each-are no longer necessary to support network-attached devices. PoE is easy to install and manage. It works with existing cables, and customers can freely and safely mix legacy and PoE-compatible devices on a network. Managing remote devices is also streamlined with PoE deployments. Once devices are connected to the network, they can be remotely monitored, reconfigured or reset. Safety is also enhanced because power is only delivered to devices that require it. Because there is no voltage running on the Ethernet cable, the risk of accidental exposure to power on the wire is reduced.

What makes the Cisco PoE offering unique?

Giancarlo: First, Cisco is unique in its support for 802.3af across its family of Catalyst Intelligent Switches in all form factors - modular, stackable and fixed configuration devices. PoE-enabled products from Cisco are also all part of a unified product portfolio with full intelligent switching functionality, allowing customers to take advantage of all of the intelligence they are accustomed to in Cisco switches, plus added PoE functionality.

Cisco is also the first to deliver 10/100/1000 with Power over Ethernet in its Catalyst 6500 and Catalyst 4500 products. Customers no longer need to choose between PoE support or high-performance throughput. Both are now available, providing greater flexibility and long-term investment protection.

The architectural design of Cisco Catalyst PoE-enabled products is unique in enabling high-density customer deployments of up to 48-ports using fixed and stackable products and up to hundreds of devices in a single chassis deployment. In addition to the chassis' ability to support a high density of powered devices, Cisco introduced a new 96-port 10/100 module for the Catalyst 6500 that enables even higher densities per slot.

Along with advancements in PoE, Cisco is helping customers protect existing investments. Many of the products that Cisco has been delivering since 2000 can support 802.3af PoE with the addition of a new generation line card. In addition, all new 802.3af products are backward compatible with older powered end devices.

Catalyst 802.3af PoE products offer intelligent power management capabilities that allow customers to optimize power consumption, maximize the number of supported devices and reduce capital and operating expenses. Catalyst switches can identify precise power requirements for each end device. They also offer a host of management capabilities including prioritizing power delivery to specific devices.

Early on, as customers began preparing their networks for the convergence of voice services over their IP infrastructure, they understood the value and potential of PoE. By building products that were ready for PoE support from day one, Cisco is enabling customers to quickly and easily add PoE capabilities to existing deployments.