Many IP phones, web cameras, wireless access points and other popular networked devices have power demands that can't be met by ordinary USB technology. These devices are also often used in places where it would be inconvenient or prohibitively expensive to run conventional power lines.

Since PoE uses ordinary CAT 5 cabling, the technology is typically easy and relatively inexpensive to deploy. PoE components include basic injector, switch, splitter and hub products, as well as more advanced integrated injector/power supplies, high power injectors and multiple port injectors. All of these devices are used to add power to Ethernet networks and to give users the ability to route PoE service to wherever it's needed.

PoE technology has been around for more than a decade, but it's just beginning to show signs of reaching its full potential. Widely available broadband connectivity now allows an almost endless array of sophisticated remote devices to be accessed and controlled remotely, a task that PoE is ideally suited for.

For a deeper look into PoE and its ability to bring power to network devices almost anywhere, read this report.