Connector embeds power over Ethernet

Tyco Electronics and PowerDsine have delivered the industry's first RJ45 connector with built in PoE.

Tyco Electronics and PowerDsine have delivered the industry's first RJ45 connector with built in PoE.

Until now PoE functionality- the ability to deliver power together with data and voice over a standard Ethernet cable - could only be provided as an ASIC, an integrated module or as a midspan device.

This latest innovation enables the PoE functionality to be embedded within the RJ45 connector reducing the cost, footprint and design-cycle time associated with integrating PoE into Ethernet switches.

"By combining power over Ethernet and the RJ45 connector, PowerDsine and Tyco Electronics are facilitating the deployment of power over Ethernet enabled networks", said Dave Passmore, Research Director of The Burton Group.

"This technology also benefits switch vendors who are designing increasingly complex switches with smaller footprints for rack mounts".

"Essentially, this technology will help to standardise power over Ethernet functionality in next-generation switch designs".

Today the worldwide market for RJ45 connectors, which includes Ethernet switches, patch panel devices and powered terminal designs, exceeds 500 million ports.

By being the first to deliver a PoE RJ45 integrated solution to market, Tyco and PowerDsine are well positioned to meet immediate demand in these fast-paced and highly competitive markets.

Tyco's RJ45 connector, enhanced by PowerDsine's advanced PoE technology will significantly reduce the number of components and assembly cost for manufacturers who are designing next-generation Ethernet switches with IEEE802.3af-compliant PoE functionality.

It enables a connector with a common PCB layout for both 10/100 and Gigabit applications.

"As a founder of the IEEE802.3af standard task force, which also boasts an impressive list of Ethernet switch vendors, PowerDsine continues to prove its leadership in PoE design, chip technology and customer satisfaction", said Robert Atkinson, Director of Business Development at Tyco Electronics.

"Harnessing both companies' engineering expertise, we have developed the industry's first RJ45 connector with power over Ethernet technology many months ahead of our competitors".

"Tyco Electronics' leadership in the RJ45 connector market and PowerDsine's expertise in PoE technology and ASIC design enable a level of integration and functionality unparalleled in the industry", said Igal Rotem, Chief Executive Officer of PowerDsine.

"This alliance will truly benefit Ethernet switch manufacturers who are looking to add PoE functionality to their next-generation products".

"Working together also brings us one step closer to ensuring that every Ethernet port shipping over the next few years will support power over Ethernet".

Tyco Electronics is currently piloting the 2x6 PoE RJ45 product.

Tyco and PowerDsine also plan to develop 2x4 and 2x8 PoE RJ45 connectors.

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