Assume I have a non-POE switch with 24 RJ-45 (ethernet) ports. I design a 1U box that can be mounted just above/below the non-POE switch, call it a "POEI" (POE inserter). This box has 48 RJ-45 ports, 24 "inputs" and 24 "outputs". The end user removes all the ethernet cables connected to the existing switch and moves them to the "outputs" of the POEI. Next, the end user takes six-inch long ethernet cables and connects each (now vacant) port of the existing switch to the "inputs" of the POEI.
The POEI simply connects the four ethernet signals on each of its "inputs" (pins 1,2,3,6 on each) to the same pins on its corresponding "outputs". Additionally, it supplies -48VDC (maybe selectable if there are other voltage needs) on the appropriate pins (also maybe selectable if different vendors use different wiring conventions for POE) of its "outputs".
This could be an inexpensive way to provide POE without having to replace all of one's switches. Additionally, this could be a nifty business opportunity.
Are POE switches expensive enough to warrant manufacturing above?
If not, is there a case for not having to swap out all of ones existing switches?
Does something like this already exist for cheap? If so, is it any good? If so, does it need more features?
If not, would you buy something like this? If so, what features have I missed? If so, what is it worth?
Daydreaming, as usual.
Ken _______________________________________________ Asterisk-Users mailing list [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://lists.digium.com/mailman/listinfo/asterisk-users To UNSUBSCRIBE or update options visit: http://lists.digium.com/mailman/listinfo/asterisk-users
