Microsemi PoE multiplexer moves 2.5 Gbps with 1-Gbps switch

The Microsemi PDS-EM-8100 Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) 2.5-Gbps Multiplexer is the first device of its kind that enables installations of new 802.11ac access points with 2.5-Gbps rates without the need to replace the Ethernet switch with a 2.5G NBASE-T interface. 

This is an important product because it addresses the need to upgrade the switch for designs that use the basic 2.5-Gbps copper technology with CAT5E/CAT6 cables to reach speeds higher than 1 Gbps. This 2.5-Gbps multiplexer enables users to keep the existing 1-Gbps switch and get 2.5 Gbps port with no additional time.

The multiplexer converts two ports of 1G into a single port with a 2.5G NBASE-T interface and 30-W IEEE802.3 at PoE. The device enables faster adoption of 802.11ac 2.5G by offering a compact and pre-configured solution for 2.5-Gbps product installations such as WLAN access points, small cells, and other Internet Protocol (IP) terminal installations.  

According to market research firm Dell’Oro Group’s April 2016 report, “Ethernet Alliance Analyst Hour,” there will be approximately 20 million 802.11ac Wave 2 access points in 2018, which will require 2.5G and 5G Ethernet technology. This multiplexer caters to this growing demand for 802.11ac Wave 2 and 2.5G, offering a quick installation device that delivers up to 30 W of PoE. The multiplexer is available for $399. For more information, http://www.microsemi.com/products/poe-systems/new-products.