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Smart buildings leverage advanced technology to integrate critical systems such as heating and cooling, lighting, and security to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and create an environmentally friendly, human-centric workplace. Such massive shifts in how we approach these spaces emerge not thanks to one single innovation but rather due to new ways of delivering data between Internet of Things (IoT) devices at the edge and artificial intelligence (AI)-driven centralized management systems. Power over Ethernet (PoE) is a game-changing technology for smart buildings. It delivers power and data over a single Ethernet cable, reducing the need for external power sources and significantly simplifying the deployment of IoT devices. This not only enhances operational efficiency but also reduces costs. The data collected from a PoE device at the edge empowers centralized systems to provide better insights, improving efficiency and cost-effectiveness. 

What is Power over Ethernet?

PoE transmits power over twisted-pair Ethernet cables to PoE-enabled devices, eliminating the need for external power sources. The Institution of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) releases PoE standards under the 802.3 specification. They have published four standards that enable PoE switches and injectors to deliver between 15.4 and 100 watts of power.

The following standards are currently available:

• IEEE 802.3af has a power output of 15.4 watts.
• IEEE 802.3at has a power output of 30 watts.
• IEEE 802.3bt Type 3 output is 60 watts.
• IEEE 802.3bt Type 4 output is 100 watts.

Type 3 and 4 devices follow the same standards except for changes to support a higher DC.

Why Do Smart Buildings Use PoE?

Smart buildings are also green buildings. One of the primary goals of a smart building is to reduce the consumption of natural resources during construction, operation, and destruction, if necessary. PoE technology helps smart buildings become sustainable because they:

• Reduce energy consumption during operations.
• Lower the demand for labor and resources associated with installing power lines and outlets.
• Facilitate the capture and transmission of data for improved building management.

From​​ enhancing security to optimizing heating and cooling systems, the versatility of PoE technology in smart buildings is remarkable. It finds all kinds of use cases, making it a crucial component of the modern smart building ecosystem.

Where Can You Find a PoE Device in a Smart Building?

A PoE device can be placed anywhere building managers want information, such as in air ducts, refrigeration units, or near security cameras. Sensors can alert centralized systems when occupancy levels change or motion sensors detect unexpected movement. PoE technology can support any critical aspect of smart buildings, including:

Lighting

Building automation systems work hand-in-hand with lighting systems to lower operating costs and deliver greater energy efficiency. PoE-enabled sensors can detect when lights are turned on in a lecture hall. The automation system can use that information to adjust heating, cooling, or ventilation settings, making the space more comfortable for attendees.

Add AI to the mix, and the smart building can learn to turn on the lights and activate the HVAC system every Tuesday from 10:00 to 12:00. At the end of the lecture, the automated system could check its PoE-enabled sensors for occupancy data and if sensors confirm the room is no longer in use, lower the heating or cooling, and turn off the lights.

HVAC

PoE sensors can provide data to help regulate heating and cooling and can also be used to check building air quality. Placing sensors in or near air ducts can alert building automation systems to changes in air quality and forward notifications to maintenance personnel, allowing them to proactively change filters and maintain optimum performance.

Security

Security cameras were among the first technologies to support PoE, and the latest standards provide even more power for feature-rich cameras. Large corporate and educational campuses use PoE solutions for access control. With some campuses spread over acres of land, IT departments can place card readers in networked buildings without worrying about external power sources, making a building more secure.

IoT

IoT devices connected to a centralized platform can relay data that enables building management systems to optimize energy usage. Based on incoming data, the control system can raise or lower temperatures, activate fans, or turn lights on or off. Depending on the PoE device, the system software can even change operating parameters to enforce non-standard protocols in the event of an emergency.

With PoE-enabled IoT devices, data can be collected from remote areas that are networked but have limited access to electrical power. Suppose a temperature-controlled storage space needs to be created within a larger warehouse but the best location has limited outlets. PoE thermostats could be placed inside the room at multiple locations to ensure a consistent temperature.

Communication Systems

PoE technology supports voice-over IP (VoIP) phones and intercoms, enabling devices to be placed where needed. The latest PoE standards allow building managers to display messages to visitors or residents on large screens or kiosks. With a centralized communication system, messages can be changed quickly.

For example, large conventions often have multiple events occurring simultaneously. If a scheduling or location update is required, most attendees learn about it as they arrive for the original session. Depending on the distance between locations, some participants may decide not to attend. With a centralized communication system, room changes can be displayed throughout the convention space, making it easier for people to navigate and respond to last-minute updates.

Maintenance

Yes, a PoE device can capture data on equipment usage to help with predictive maintenance programs, but they can also help with routine issues like keeping restrooms clean. A recent survey found that restroom maintenance was ​​the number one complaint of most facility managers.

PoE technology can power smart paper towel and soap dispensers. When predetermined thresholds are reached, cleaning staff receive notifications urging them to replenish supplies before they become depleted. Another way to use PoE to make restroom maintenance easier is to install counters. When a certain number of people have entered and exited a restroom, cleaning teams can be notified so facilities are cleaned based on usage rather than time.

Smart Cities Need Smart Buildings

Smart cities combine technology, sustainability, and human-centric development to improve the quality of life for their citizens, optimize urban services, and reduce environmental impact. They rely on smart buildings to create a more favorable urban environment for their inhabitants.

The smart city market is expected to reach $72.52 billion in 2024 and continue growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.72% through 2028. As smart cities realize the benefits of smart technologies like PoE, they leverage new solutions to construct smarter buildings that better use natural resources, improve workplace conditions for a more productive workforce, and contribute to a sustainable environment.

Planet Technology USA supports advancements in PoE technology and is proud of its contribution to creating smart cities and buildings. If you are looking for PoE-enabled switches, injectors, and equipment, contact us to find the ideal solution.