Maintaining a reliable Ethernet network is crucial for seamless operations for remote industrial sites. However, the challenge of providing both power and data to equipment over long distances often complicates network infrastructure, especially in areas lacking traditional power outlets. Power over Ethernet (PoE) solutions, including injectors and extenders, offer a streamlined way to deliver power and data simultaneously over a single Ethernet cable.

This blog explores one factor in the remote equation: Power Sources, specifically the role of Power over Ethernet (PoE) injectors and extenders. By enabling power and data delivery over a single Ethernet cable, PoE injectors and extenders offer a reliable solution for continuous network operation in both remote locations and areas lacking traditional power outlets. Their ability to work with new and legacy devices, cost-efficiency, and simplicity make them ideal in any location with limited electrical infrastructure, providing you with a reliable and versatile network setup you can trust.

Use Cases for Remote Site Networks

As global industries transition to the digital realm, standalone remote sites are following suit, becoming more connected. Remote access can bring significant benefits if these sites are located across a corporate campus or in a different country. It can reduce travel and service costs, increase efficiency and sustainability, and save time and money by reducing the need for fully manned sites. This shift towards connectivity underscores the value of remote access and its potential to transform operations.

Remote site networking equipment connectivity leverages various innovative solutions, including:

· Visibility: For organizations with highly distributed assets, remote monitoring reduces unnecessary maintenance cycles by addressing equipment issues before they become critical. IoT sensors at the remote site can collect data on process performance, machine health, energy consumption, site environmental conditions, and other valuable data transmitted to control systems.
· Notifications: Ethernet networks support smart alert systems triggered when malfunctions or potential performance issues arise. Once the alert is received, connected equipment worldwide can be diagnosed, and problems can be remediated remotely.
· Connecting Crew Members: Ethernet networks offer dependable connectivity for crew workers working in remote areas for weeks or months.
· Surveillance: The majority of remote operations are unmanned installations. IP PTZ cameras provide security monitoring of the site, as can proximity sensors and intelligent lighting.

All devices deployed on a remote site draw electrical power. PoE injectors and extenders are better options than a nearby electrical outlet. Both can supply the necessary voltage and current to support new and legacy devices. Connected to an industrial switch, ethernet network, or industrial router, PoE injectors and extenders adhere to IEEE 802.3af (15W), 802.3at (30W), and 802.3bt (90W) standards, which define the specifications for delivering power over Ethernet.

Ethernet Distance Limitations

Remote sites naturally require long cable runs. In a twisted-pair cabling system, however, a single Ethernet cable can operate only up to 100 meters (328 feet). Beyond this limit, data signals will become distorted due to wire resistance and electromagnetic interference (EMI).

The wire's resistance depends on length and temperature. As cable distances increase, resistance goes up. Along with this resistance comes increased heat generated, which will cause data signal attenuation and distortion.

Data signal loss will also occur during transmission due to extended exposure to EMI generated by the flow of electricity. Furthermore, the cable's insulation shield will eventually absorb data signals, worsening degradation.

Like data signals, PoE transmission is also impacted by extended cable length. The main culprit is a voltage drop. A voltage drop refers to the measured power delivered by power sourcing equipment being higher than the power available at the powered device. As the distance increases, so does the power loss. Substantial voltage drops will threaten the functionality of the end device.

PoE injectors and extenders are widely used solutions in this situation, but which one suits the needs of your remote site? Let’s look at both.

PoE Injectors

PoE injectors are simple, inexpensive standalone devices. As their name implies, they inject power onto an Ethernet cable so that the cable can simultaneously transmit data and energy to a connected PoE-compatible device. The PoE injector combines a power port and data cable into a single PoE output port. The powered gadget at the receiving end isolates the power and data for its intended use.

PoE injectors draw power by connecting to a wall outlet or a power supply inside a network cabinet. They apply this power to the Ethernet cable through a technique known as modulation. Modulation is the superimposing of direct current (DC) onto an alternating (AC) data signal. This process enables the injector to combine power input and data cables into a single PoE output, which the receiving device or router can use for its intended purpose.

Per the Ethernet standard, the maximum distance between a PoE injector and the non-PoE switch is 328 feet (100 meters). However, multiple injectors can be installed to extend the cable distance if necessary. Each additional PoE injector provides power to the extended Ethernet cable, compensating for voltage drop and allowing for longer cable runs. Besides injecting energy into the cable and possibly extending it, PoE injectors also eliminate the need for separate power cables for remote devices, reducing clutter and installation complexity in tight spaces. They also eliminate the cost of replacing an existing non-PoE Ethernet switch with a new PoE switch when upgrading a network to PoE capabilities.

As an example of this technology, let's look at the Antaira INJ-0200G-60-24-T Industrial PoE Injector. This high-power model adheres to IEEE 802.3bt Type 3 PoE, delivering up to 60W of power to end devices, yet is backward compatible with previous 802.3af/at standards to support your legacy devices. It is IP30-rated, DIN-rail mountable, and supports an extended temperature range from -40°C to 75°C, making it suitable for outdoor or harsh industrial applications. It can power various industrial PoE switches and devices, including IP phones, wireless access points, and IP cameras. Its robust design and versatile compatibility make it a reliable choice for your remote site.

PoE Ethernet Extenders

PoE extenders, also known as PoE repeaters, use regeneration to send PoE power to devices at distances greater than Ethernet’s 100-meter limit without packet loss. Devices can be located farther from the power source, expanding the network's coverage area and simplifying network architecture by reducing the need for numerous power sources. Furthermore, some types of PoE extenders can be daisy-chained to extend the total connection distance further, allowing for easy extension with no added installation costs. The extension distance may vary depending on the extender, the cable's quality, and the connected device's power needs.

Conveniently, a PoE Extender does not require an AC power connection. Instead, when it receives the power and data transmitted from the PSE, it uses some power to operate. It transfers the remaining energy to an end device or another PoE extender. PoE extenders are compatible with IEEE 802.3af, 802.3at, and 802.3bt, making them versatile for different network setups and a perfect fit for remote sites.

By way of illustration, let’s look at the Antaira LEP-401M-KIT PoE Ethernet Extender. This plug-and-play kit contains a long-reach transceiver and a long-reach receiver for maximum distance capabilities. The Antaira LEP-401M-KIT enables simultaneous data transmission and power up to 800 meters, eliminating the hassle of daisy-chaining multiple PoE extenders. The kit is compliant with 802.3af/at to supply up to 30 Watts PoE to IP cameras, WAPs, VoIP phones, and various other devices, offering versatility and ease of integration.

Conclusion

Understanding the roles of industrial PoE switches, injectors, and extenders helps facilitate reliable network architecture in remote industrial sites. These simple, plug-and-play devices allow seamless data transmission and power integration over a single cable and maximize cost-effectiveness, speed, scalability, and performance. To make an informed choice about PoE injectors, extenders, media converters, or industrial switches to help your application go greater distances, contact the Antaira technical team at (714) 671-9000 or sales@antaira.com.