POE Network Tap Merging Power and Data Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional network taps require external power sources, leading to potential interruptions in data flow when power is disrupted, causing significant impairment to the entire data network due to lack of fault tolerance.
Innovation Solution
A network tap device configured for Power Over Ethernet (POE) operation, which eliminates the need for external power by receiving power through Ethernet cables, ensuring continuous data flow and reducing the risk of power-related disruptions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional external power supply is used to power the network tap, then the tap can be powered independently, but the network tap becomes vulnerable to power interruptions and external power supply failures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the power supply function with the data transmission function by using the same Ethernet cable to deliver both data and power to the network tap. This merging eliminates the separate external power supply and its associated power cord, removing the failure points related to external power connections and improving network operation continuity.
Solution Approach 2:
The network tap receives power from the network infrastructure itself through POE-enabled switches or power injectors, rather than from an external independent power source. This self-service approach means the tap is powered by the same network that carries its data, eliminating vulnerability to external power supply failures and accidental disconnections.
2Reliability
If external power cord is used to connect power supply to network tap, then power can be delivered, but the system becomes prone to accidental disconnections and physical damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the power delivery mechanism with the data communication cable, using the Ethernet cable to carry both data signals and electrical power. This eliminates the separate power cord that is vulnerable to tripping, accidental unplugging, and physical damage, thereby improving power supply stability without compromising ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces POE technology as an intermediary mechanism that enables power delivery through the existing data cable infrastructure. This intermediary approach allows power to be transmitted through the same cable that carries data, eliminating the need for separate power connections and their associated physical vulnerabilities.
3Reliability
If traditional power supply configuration is used, then the tap can be powered, but the placement options are limited by availability of wall outlets
Solution Approach 1:
By merging power delivery with data transmission through the Ethernet cable, the patent enables the network tap to be placed anywhere along the network cable path, not just near wall outlets. This significantly increases placement flexibility while ensuring reliable power delivery through the same cable that carries data to the tap's location.
Solution Approach 2:
The Ethernet cable serves multiple functions simultaneously: it carries data bidirectionally and delivers electrical power to the network tap. This multi-functionality eliminates the constraint of requiring separate power access at the tap location, allowing versatile placement throughout the network infrastructure wherever the data cable reaches.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The POE network tap enhances network reliability by providing power through the data network, reducing the likelihood of data stream interruptions and allowing flexible placement without reliance on traditional power outlets, thus improving overall network operation and fault tolerance.
Implementation Method 1
Powering of the network tap in this manner eliminates a potential network stream data failure point... Powering of the POE network tap by a POE power supply offers enhanced flexibility
Data Source
AI summary
A network tap device that is configured for operation in a copper Gigabit Ethernet communications network using a power-over-Ethernet (“POE”) electrical supply is disclosed. In one embodiment, a network tap device powered by a POE supply is disclosed, comprising first and second network ports that are configured with receptacles for receiving communication cables. The communication cables are configured to carry both data signals and the POE supply to and from the network tap device. The network tap device further includes first and second tap ports that connect with additional communication cables to a monitoring device. The network tap device also includes control and regulation circuitry that is configured to receive the POE supply from the communication cables via the network ports and to enable components of the network tap device to be operated by the POE supply.