PowerDsine recently announced that the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) has formed a new 802.3 Study Group to discuss the enhancement of IEEE 802.3af, the Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) standard. The purpose of the enhanced PoE standard, dubbed “PoEplus,” is to deliver higher power levels to devices that require more than the 13 W currently specified in the 802.3af standard, which was ratified in June 2003.
During the Call for Interest at the IEEE 802 Plenary Meeting in San Antonio, Texas, PowerDsine gave a presentation outlining market drivers for higher power PoE and how new enhancements are vital to the continued success of PoE technology.
The main objectives of the new IEEE 802.3 Study Group are to ensure that all new modifications are compatible with the IEEE 802.3 Ethernet standard and backwards compatible with existing IEEE 802.3af PoE equipment. The Study Group will address the broadening PoE market, distinguish between IEEE 802.3af devices and the new devices, and ensure economical and technical feasibility.
Twenty-two companies participated and voted for the creation of the Study Group, passing the Call for Interest by an overwhelming majority.
For more information, visit www.powerdsine.com.