IMC Networks Announces Multi-Port Power Over Ethernet-Powered Switch

Foothill Ranch, CA - IMC Networks, a manufacturer of optical access solutions for local and wide area networks, recently announced the release of the PD-Switch product line. The PD-Switch is a full-featured, multi-port MAC layer switch that extends the range of Ethernet networks, and increases port density, while powering itself via Power over Ethernet (PoE).

"Ethernet signals carried on Cat 5 network cable have a limited range of only 100 meters," said Jerry Roby, CEO of privately-held IMC Networks. "Until now, network operators wishing to extend this range had to either install a store-and-forward switch at the 100 meter endpoint, or they had to install longer range fiber optic cable."

Functioning as an IEEE 802.3af-compliant "Powered Device" (PD), drawing PoE, the PD-Switch can extend the outer range of an Ethernet network by an additional 100 meters. The PoE functionality eliminates power-sourcing concerns, since power is being supplied through an uplink PD port. This simplifies installations by eliminating costly electrical work and building inspections.

The PD-Switch provides a variety of port options. PD-Switches come equipped with one PD RJ-45 port and either:

• Four RJ-45 data ports,
• Three RJ-45 data ports and one SFP port, or
• Two RJ-45 data ports and one SC or ST fiber port.

With multiple ports, the PD-Switch also increases port density for existing PoE switches. Operators can connect any PoE port on their switch to the PD-Switch, adding up to four more data ports for port expansion.

Each PD-Switch also comes equipped with an RJ-45 "VoIP" port for high-priority network traffic, such as Voice over IP. The PD-Switch supports DiffServ/ToS (Type of Service) IP packet prioritization, giving a higher priority to any traffic on any port that is flagged correctly, making the switch QoS (Quality of Service) aware.

SOURCE: IMC Networks