Ixia Offers Power over Ethernet Testing Solution

Enterprise Networks & Servers, Apr 2004

Ixia has announced the world's first Power over Ethernet (PoE) test solution for validating power-enabled equipment. Ixia's new hardware conforms to the IEEE 802.3af standard for PoE via emulation of the powered device (PD). It is designed to operate in conjunction with Ixia's line of Ethernet network interface modules, which provide data traffic generation and analysis, to verify that data is not impacted by varied power load conditions.

Manufacturers of networking equipment, including most new wireless LAN switches, have introduced PoE-enabled devices with embedded Power Sourcing Equipment (PSE) functionality, which allows power to run over existing network cabling (Category 5 or better). The applications for PoE include powering of wireless LAN access points, IP phone hand sets, security cameras, point-of-sale systems, and other such PDs, eliminating the need for external AC power.

"The 802.3af Power over Ethernet standard greatly simplifies mass deployment of remote powered IP devices, such as phones, security cameras, lighting systems, wireless access points, etc.," said Alan Amrod, vice president of marketing for Ixia. "Ixia is the first test equipment provider to recognize the industry's need for an integrated solution to test for and correlate data and power events in Power over Ethernet-enabled switches and systems."

Each Ixia PoE test module is capable of emulating four independent and isolated PDs with up to 16 watts can be dissipated per PoE port. Each PoE port can simulate a range of valid or invalid signatures during detection, classification, or maintenance of power. The new PoE test module works in conjunction with Ixia's line of copper-based Ethernet load modules and occupies only one slot within the IXIA 1600T and IXIA 400T chassis. The module supports comprehensive built-in test and auto calibration, provides instantaneous readings of voltage and current, and captures waveforms that can be displayed on a PC or output to an oscilloscope.