B&B Electronics launches Gigabit speed PoE, PoE+ media converters

Powers remote Ethernet devices such as IP security cameras at 1000Mbps over existing CAT5 cable

B&B Electronics Manufacturing Company, following its acquisition of IMC Networks last year fas now  launched the next generation of its PoE (Power over Ethernet) and PoE+ media converters featuring gigabit (1000Mbps) speed. As PSE (Power Source Equipment) devices, the new PoE and PoE+ converters can power remote, high-bandwidth devices that require gigabit speed, but lack a nearby power outlet, over existing copper wire infrastructure (CAT5 cable or better), concurrently with the Ethernet data stream.

Such high-bandwidth Powered Devices (PD) include PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom) IP surveillance cameras, plant equipment, VoIP phones and RFID readers.  B&B offers two product lines that support both PoE and PoE+ standards: the compact Giga-MiniMc (.8h x 3.64w x 3.82d in; 2.03h x 9.25w x 9.70d cm) is a standalone converter with an  external power supply, while the Giga-McBasic (1.46h x 4.76w x 7.32d in; 3.71h x 12.09w x 18.59d cm) is a 1U high, standalone chassis with an internal power supply. Both product lines are unmanaged and include plug-and-play features for easy installation.

Previously limited to 100Mbps, B&B’s next generation Giga-MiniMc and Giga-McBasic families were developed to meet the growing demand for PoE and PoE+ functionality in a gigabit form, where remote PD devices require power, and the ability to transmit large amounts of data. These high-bandwidth devices are typically deployed for security, kiosks, in offices, and other environments that require power for Ethernet devices.

All models offer three ports: two 10/100/1000Base-T copper UTP Ethernet ports and one fiber port, available as a fixed fiber transceiver or the flexible new SFP (small form pluggable) port capability. The PoE models (15.4W) can power one PD device over one of the Ethernet ports while delivering data over the other port; the PoE+ models (25.5W) can power two PD devices over both copper ports while also delivering data.

Diagnostic features such as Link Fault Pass Through (LFPT) and a PoE reset are available via DIP Switches. LFPT troubleshoots link loss conditions on a network segment. When LFPT is enabled, if a fault condition occurs on the copper segment, the fiber interface will shut down.  PoE reset is an advanced function that will force the PSE output power (on the PSE copper port) to shut down if the LINK state is lost on the fiber port.

Full compatibility with the IEEE 802.3af (PoE) and 802.3at (PoE+) standards ensures seamless integration into networks, and Auto Negotiation technology enables Plug-and-Play operation. The converters are store-and-forward devices, supporting a frame size of up to 10240 bytes, as well as the Autocross feature for connectivity on the copper ports.

Multi-Mode, Single-Mode, Single-Strand and CWDM fiber types up to 80Km are available. Constructed of solid sheet metal, the compact Giga-MiniMc series is DIN Rail or wall mountable, while the 1U high Giga-McBasic series with an internal power supply is generally rack-mounted.