Power over Ethernet or PoE lighting refers to the ability to use an Ethernet cable to power light fixtures and transmit data between the lamp and the control software. A single cable can both supply power and control the fixtures attached to the network. The Ethernet cable plugged into the fixture provides the fixture not only its on-off power, but through a unique IP address can automatically control the fixture through its software. For each unique IP address the user can program the features it wishes into the light. Such commands from software can be carried by standard Cat 5/6 cable already used by sensors and wall switches.

Data can be collected from attached devices, such as switches or motion sensors, to prompt specific lighting commands. The user can maximize efficiency or comfort by affecting the dimming, timers, sensors, lighting colors, daylight harvesting, etc. based on the appropriate software.

PoE also means information can be sent from the fixture, such as actual energy usage, lumens of light produced, and the condition of the fixture for maintenance purposes instead of waiting for a component to fail.

PoE not only allows the user to control its lighting from a computer or even a mobile phone, but the software can replace more expensive existing equipment, such as a motion sensors, to allow implementation to be more competitive price-wise.

Most PoE systems generate almost no residual heat, which is valuable for temperature control (reducing AC needs) or other potential impacts to the building, such as heat above the ceiling.

Being software-based, PoE likely requires less expensive labor (IT professionals rather than certified electricians) to be used to install or upgrade such systems. In some cases, PoE may be exempt from permits or inspections required of most electrical systems.

PoE is now being produced by a variety of different vendors, giving the user choices.

We are entering a world where fixtures are not simply devices that produce light for a given room or area, but can address other issues, such as security, carbon monoxide concentration, dimming, mood, energy efficiency (turning on and off when needed), providing alarms when necessary for evacuations and to aid first responders, and providing information back to the user thanks to PoE lighting.

CCES has the experts assist you in your lighting needs, whether it is merely switching to more efficient LED lighting, upgrading lighting to improve the productivity of your workers or comfort of your customers, or exploring whether PoE is right for you. Contact us today at 914-584-6720 or karell@CCESworld.com.