Methods for Delivering Power over Ethernet

There are two methods for delivering Power over Ethernet (PoE) as defined in the 802.3af and 802.3at specifications:

• Endspan: Power is supplied through the Ethernet ports on a power-sourcing device. With the Endspan method, power can be carried over the two data pairs (Alternative A) or the two spare pairs (Alternative B).
• Midspan: Power is supplied by an intermediate power-sourcing device placed between the switch and the PD. With the Midspan method, power is carried over the two spare pairs (Alternative B).

With both methods, power is transferred over four conductors, between the two pairs. 802.3af- and 802.3at-compliant PDs are able to accept power from either set of pairs.

RUCKUS PoE devices use the Endspan method, compliant with the 802.3af, 802.3at, and 802.3bt standards. Refer to the RUCKUS FastIron Features and Standards Support Matrix for more information.