ExtremeWare Software 7.3.0 Command Reference Guide 1899
27 Power Over Ethernet Commands
Power over Ethernet (PoE) is an effective method of supplying 48 VDC power to certain types of
powered devices (PDs) through Category 5 or Category 3 twisted pair Ethernet cables. PDs include the
Altitude 300 wireless port, IP telephones, laptop computers, web cameras, and other devices. With PoE,
a single Ethernet cable supplies power and the data connection, reducing costs associated with separate
power cabling and supply. PoE for ExtremeWare includes a method of detection to assure that power is
delivered only to devices that meet the IEEE 802.3af specification for PoE.
Summary of PoE Software Features
The Alpine FM-32Pi PoE Module supports the following PoE software features:
• Configuration and control of the power distribution for PoE at the system (slot) level
• Configuration and control of the power distribution for PoE at the port level
• Real time detection of powered devices on the line
• Monitor and control of PoE fault conditions
• Support for configuring and monitoring PoE status at the port level
• Management of an over-subscribed power budget
Port Power Management
When you connect PDs, the Alpine FM-32Pi PoE Module automatically discovers and classifies those
that are AF-compliant. The following functions are supported for delivering power to specific ports:
• Enabling the port for discovery and classification
• Enabling power delivery to a discovered device
• Enforcing port power limits by denying power to a device that exceeds the power limit
• Enforcing class limits by denying power to a device that exceeds the class limit
• Reporting and tracking port power faults
• Managing power budgets and allocation
For more conceptual information about configuring and managing PoE, see the ExtremeWare Software
User Guide.