What is Power over Link™ (PoL)?

Power over Ethernet (PoE) technology has steadily increased in popularity since its introduction, and its adoption is becoming more widespread. However, one of the drawbacks of PoE is distance. The maximum effective length for UTP cable is 100 meters (328 feet). Fiber optic cabling, used in conjunction with PoE-enabled media converters, can overcome the distance limitations of copper cable, but there still exist many applications where it is not practical or economically feasible to use fiber.

What is needed is a system that can deliver power and data together over existing (non-UTP) wiring, one that is suitable for long distance connections, and that can eliminate the need to run power cables to the remote site. Rising to the challenge, EtherWAN developed Power over Link (PoL) technology. PoL allows power and data to be transported over a single pair of wires, and even works using traditional phone lines . PoL can deliver the power needed (up to 30 Watts) to end devices such as IP cameras, controllers and access points, up to a distance of 1.2 kilometers (0.75 miles).

How does it work?

The PoL Ethernet Extenders are used in pairs, with the local extender receiving power from a DC power supply, and transmitting power to the remote extender. The link between the devices runs at full 100Mbps at distances from 300 meters to 1.2 kilometers , many times the distance achievable with Cat 6 cable.

Powered devices connected to the remote extender receive power through a normal PoE connection via the Ethernet port.

This system allows existing cabling infrastructure to be leveraged in modern networks, and provides a way to deliver power to devices in remote locations.

The combination of VDSL2 (Very-high-bit-rate digital subscriber line 2) and PoL technology is a powerful tool for system installers and integrator, allowing for networks that are faster, cheaper, and easier to install.

ED3538 Hardened 10/100BASE-TX PoL/PoE Ethernet

Side Product Selections

When building a project, you can also consider the following products.

If you are still unsure which products is best for your requirements, please contact Etherwan and we will be happy to assist you.