Microchip introduces the first multi-port gigabit PoE supplier to simplify deployment of Wi-Fi 6 access points and small base station nodes

     Microchip announced the launch of the first multi-port Power over Ethernet (PoE) Power device (PSE) supplier, also known as Mid-span, creatively providing a more flexible and cost-effective alternative that enables any gigabit switch to support high power demand and data rates without network configuration or downtime.

     Currently, enterprises are only able to deploy Wi-Fi 6 access points (aps) and 5G small cell access nodes where there is alternating current or a switch that can provide power and data as needed. Microchip Technology Inc. announced the launch of the first multi-port Power over Ethernet (PoE) power device (PSE) supplier (aka Mid-span), creatively providing a more flexible and economical alternative that enables any gigabit switch to support high power demands and data rates. Without network configuration or downtime.

     Iris Shuker, Director of Microchip's Ethernet (PoE) Business unit, said: "Our new family of multi-port gigabit PoE power providers provides the easiest and most cost-effective way to install Wi-Fi 6 devices and small cell devices. Microchip's patented technology solves the challenge of powering these devices while supporting data rates of 10 gigabits per second. "This greatly simplifies the deployment of Wi-Fi 6 access points while, for the first time, enabling service providers to quickly and cost-effectively install 5G picocell and femtocell stations away from AC outlets."

     Gigabit PoE switches that provide enough power for Wi-Fi 6 devices and small base station devices are expensive and therefore not widely adopted. A more economical way to plug power into the network of these high-speed devices is to install Microchip's new multi-port gigabit midspan between these devices and any standard gigabit switch. Each midspan is available in 6-port, 12-port, and 24-port configurations that support the high IEEE 802.11ax data rates of Wi-Fi 6 devices and provide up to 60 watts of output power per port in accordance with IEEE 802.3bt PoE and 10GBASE-T specifications. These midspans can be securely monitored and controlled remotely using Microchip's web-based PowerView Pro platform.