The predominant selling point of 2.5GBase-T has been that it enables a 2.5-Gbit/sec data transmission rate without the need for new cabling. The entire premise behind 2.5GBase-T is for it to operate on existing Category 5e or Category 6 cabling. Now, Microsemi says you can operate 2.5GBase-T not only on existing cabling, but also using your existing 1000Base-T switch ports.
On September 7 Microsemi announced the availability of its PDS-EM-8100 Power over Ethernet 2.5 Gbps Multiplexer, which converts two unused 1000Base-T ports into a single, PoE-capable 2.5GBase-T port. “As the first device of its kind, the unique offering enables installations of new 802.11ac access points with 2.5-Gbit/sec rates without the need to replace the Ethernet switch with a 2.5G NBase-T interface,” the company said.
Sani Ronen, director of product management for Microsemi’s PoE systems, commented, “Our new PoE Multiplexer delivers new capabilities to the market as the first and only product of its kind, enabling a fast, easy and cost-effective upgrade to the newest 2.5-Gbit/sec technology. While the basic 2.5-Gbit/sec copper technology offering uses the existing Category 5e/Category 6 cable for speeds higher than 1G, the need for the switch upgrade was not addressed. Now our new 2.5G Multiplexer enables users to keep the existing 1G switch and get a 2.5-Gbit/sec port with no additional time and at a low cost.”
The PDS-EM-8100 PoE 2.5 Gbps Multiplexer converts two ports of 1G into a single port with a 2.5G NBase-T interface and 30 watts of IEEE 802.3af PoE. “The device enables faster adoption of 802.11ac 2.5G by offering compact, cost-effective and preconfigured solution for 2.5-Gbit/sec product installations such as wireless LAN access points, small cells and other Internet Protocol terminal installations,” Microsemi said.
“As an ideal alternative to using high-end expensive PoE switches, Microsemi’s new device caters to the specific needs of the communications market and more specifically, for WiFi 802.11ac technology,” Microsemi added. “It is suitable for fast-growing applications such as enterprise IT, with plug-and-play/zero-configuration needed, and the ability to perform remote software upgrades.
The multiplexer is now available with an MSRP of $399.
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