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(719) 492-6955
(719) 492-6955

POE Switch & How to test Power over Ethernet

Why bother with Powering devices over Ethernet?

Oftentimes you’d like to install a device such as a security camera. To install this device, you'd normally need two wires traipsing through your establishment. Usually, power comes a separate power cord and controlling the device using data requires using yet another cord, usually an Ethernet wire.

These two lines supply power and data. Data would send information to your device, allowing you to control it. For example, if you are running a remote control camera, any time you adjust the focus of the camera, this data is sent over the cable connected via Ethernet.

Wouldn’t it be nice to just have one wire running through your home or business? Enter Power over Ethernet (PoE). There are many advantages to using Power over Ethernet:

  1. With one less wire to run, your bill from a local electrician just went down!
  2. Your device doesn’t need to be next to a power outlet, or have a separate power source installed, thus allowing you increased freedom.
  3. POE is advanced. Power over Ethernet can protect your devices from being overloaded, underpowered, or being installed incorrectly.
  4. Because of its universal nature, Power over Ethernet can have a back up power source or be controlled easily - disable and reset devices at will!
  5. With power on your network, the possibilities are unlimited. Give your business room to grow with simple and effective installation and scalability.

What practical applications can PoE serve?

Power over Ethernet can control a variety of devices. 3 of the most popular applications are:

  1. VoIP (communicating via the internet).
  2. IP cameras (security cameras, or other video cameras). 
  3. and wireless devices such as RFID readers (security cards).

How can you add Power over Ethernet to your home and commercial buildings?

POE Switch - Power over Ethernet Switches

A POE switch is a popular way to add PoE to your network. A PoE switch has Power over Ethernet built in. There are a variety of options available to suit any application. Ask your local electrician for advice regarding which PoE to buy, or have them set it up for you.

Then, simply connect your network devices to the switch like any other Ethernet switch. The PoE Switch can and will detect what devices are PoE compatible and make the necessary adjustment. For example it will enable the power automatically!

Midspan - Power over Ethernet

What if your regular network links do not have PoE? Use a midspan, or PoE injector. Each network connection must be routed through the PoE injector. A midspan can be used by an electrician contractor to upgrade existing LAN to Power over Ethernet. As with a PoE switch, there are a variety of midspan options available. Also similar to Power over Ethernet switches, power is automatically supplied.

PoE Splitter - Power over Ethernet Splitter

The device itself, such as an existing IP security camera, can be upgraded to PoE. The camera’s network connection is tied into the PoE splitter, and taps into the Power over Ethernet. The power is then converted into low voltage power acceptable to power the device.

What types of tools make PoE and PoE Switch installation easier?

There are a variety of tools available to test and install Power over Ethernet devices. Wire Works Co Inc officially recommends the use of Net Prowler™, Cable Prowler™ or Net Chaser™ tools. These are products of Platinum Tools. When these network testers are connected to an Ethernet cable, a lot of valuable information can be found out, like:

  • Maximum power
  • Supply voltage range
  • Power supply mode
  • Which pairs are transmitting PoE voltage
  • Link Speed and capability

Net Prowler features

  • IPV4 and IPV6 support
  • Determine CDP or LLDP protocols
  • VLAN identification
  • Map networks
    • Show MAC address of the device
    • Display device names
    • Determine IP addresses
  • Keep track of test results for internal review or archive by connecting to a PC with USB

 

Cable Prowler features

  • Fault finding capabilities
    • Tone generation
    • Link light identification
    • Trace individual cores
  • PoE Voltage Testing:
    • The Cable Prowler is especially helpful installing Power over Ethernet.
      • Tests the presence of PoE on the network
      • Current link status
      • Keep a record of network tests
      • Identify
        • open circuits,
        • short circuits
        • incorrect RJ45 connections
        • measure the length of the cable or the distance to a fault

Net Chaser features

  • Can test for network noise
  • Detecting faults in the cable wiring
  • Ensure cables can support the speed required
    • Speed Certification to IEEE standards 802.3

Our Reputation

Scott Olson

I used Wire Works to upgrade my electric panel in our house built in 1896 (from 100 to 200) and wire in a hot tub. Their quote was quite reasonable, their communication great, and their work was quality and efficient. They showed up on time and did great work in the time frame communicated. I would not hesitate to use Wire Works again at any point. Seriously, I got 5 bids and I do not choose an electrician based on quote alone (though theirs was competitive). I look at every facet, professionalism, communication, follow through, friendliness, helpfulness, ability to explain what should be done and why, etc. In addition, the permit inspector walked away disappointed because of the quality of work Wire Works had completed. Nothing to report, permit granted! They stand by their work.

John Gustafson

Great experience beginning to end. Reasonable quote less than others. Completed variety of projects in short time. Very professional and highly skilled. Very comfortable with the team in my home. Everything works. Even added a couple of last minute enhancements. Highly recommend. This is the kind of electrician to hire if you find one and now you have! Came recommended to me from a friend and I am delighted.

Joint Ops

Lanny was awesome. I got a quote for a job from Wirenut for some electrical work, and Lanny came in at a third of the price. He knows what he’s doing and was great. Definitely keeping him on our list.

b. Altshuler-Pacheco

Professional service paired with quality workmanship for a reasonable price. We highly recommend Lanny for any electrical needs that you may have. Wire Works installed a whole house surge protector, a 5 speaker surround system and a number of outdoor lights along with an outdoor television. Great work! Got exactly what we needed without the oversell pitch.

Jeff Lundholm

I hired Wire Works Co Inc. to upgrade the 100 amp service panel in my garage to 200 amps. They had to replace the meter box on the outside as part of the job. I also asked for a 240v outlet in the garage and a dedicated circuit run to the over the range microwave in the kitchen. Their price was spot on fair and the work was done on time, as agreed and professional all the way. I was glad to give Wire Works Co Inc. my money. I got every penny I paid for! Thanks Lanny and Corbin!

Gunnar Hankins

Lanny came highly recommended for the work that he does and he did not disappoint! I can honestly say that he is in the Top 1% of contractors I have ever dealt with. Very friendly, courteous, knowledgeable, and laid back. He and his son helped me with mounting my TV and even fixed another completely separate electrical issue I had. I was extremely satisfied with their work and their overall helpfulness in completing my project. He was very prompt in returning my correspondence and was spot on in the estimate he gave me. If I ever have electrical issues in the future you can guarantee I'll be turning to him. Thanks again Lanny! The setup looks great and everything works perfectly!!!

David Mourhess

Lanny and Team (son Corey) did a fantastic job for us! On time and on budget . . . who could ask for more? If you want the job done right the first time, don't hesitate to contact Lanny . . . job well done!!

Virgo Lajoie

Lanny was great easy to work with and very knowledgable. With the new electrical panel and having our electrical now up to code I feel secure and have a beautiful bright new kitchen!

Marah Rose-Rawe

Lanny is excellent

Anna Aquino

Lannie was by far the most affordable. He was quick and did a great job. Id recommend him to anybody in springs! Thank you for helping my client and my dad's client!

Ashley Horn

Moved a few outlets for us after we cut down a pony wall and added an outlet in the garage. Very knowledgeable, polite and much more reasonable than the other quotes we received. Will definitely use again for any electrical work.

Jeremy Smith

Lanny was very pleasant and knowledgeable when working on our electric. He was thorough and explained what he was doing and why. Would recommend this company to anyone wanting their work done correctly, professionally, and in a timely manner. Thanks for the hard work Lanny!

Maggie Ramos

I had trouble with outdoor lighting around my property. As a woman I am not comfortable with wiring/electrical/lighting issues. Lanny came over, assessed, explained, and had all my lighting working again before he departed. He was very trustworthy and even took an extra step to fix a light that was out in my laundry room. I highly recommend him.

Kelly Keene

It's not enough in this world anymore for corporations to just be decent people and not take every penny from customers these days. Seriously, Lanny has done an amazingly thorough job putting on a new electrical panel for our recently purchased older home. He was easy to understand and easier than most home service providers to get a hold of. Scheduling was easy and pretty fast. Not just this, but his integrity in not charging us an arm and a leg for this service was a serious break that we needed. His quote was much more reasonable than the 5 other companies that I called (and waited for their quote) to do the same job! I will be using him in the future for all of our electrical needs (which are a lot in an older home). I would recommend him to anyone and you should at least call him to get a quote! You owe it to yourself to get quality work for a reasonable price, this is your company.

M. Greenwood

Lanny installed 11 security cameras in our office building as well as installed a photo-cell light fixture on the building's exterior. Lanny came out to look at the building and gave us some great suggestions in terms of areas that were vulnerable; which my current security camera system did not cover. His customer service was amazing; Lanny was very responsive and patient with the many questions I had before moving forward with the installation. The expertise, professionalism and knowledge that Lanny has significantly stood out compared to the several other professional installers we contacted for a bid. He completed the job in about a day and half, which exceed our expectations. I highly recommend Lanny / Wire Works Co. for any of the services he provides and will certainly be using him in the future for any other services I need. Thanks again Lanny! - mg

Charlie & Teri Traftons

Lanny did a great job! When 2 other vendors said it couldn't be done, Lanny proved them wrong - he exceeded our expectations.The process was great. On our first meet, Lanny toured our property and heard our requests. He followed up with a proposal that met all of them plus. The actual work he did was phenomenal - nothing but raves from family and friends who have looked and listened to our system.

Brian Richardson

Outstanding, quality service from Lanny. Instantly understood what was needed for network cabling, installation was quick with zero complications. Lanny is a friendly, courteous professional, and I recommend him and Wire Works Co to everyone.

Julie Martindale

We picked this company because of all the great reviews. He was kind enough to look at several issues we were having at our new home. Prompt, respectful. Felt completely comfortable having him in our home. Initially came to set up our sound system, but plan on using him to install our lights and ceiling fans.

Jason Talbott

Lanny did an amazing job and had zero problem diving into mounting TVs on our rock fireplaces, a job we had multiple people deny. He's the only electrician we will use from now on.

Rachael Staebell

Very reliable, and easy to work with. Great work on all my projects. The only electrician i will ever use!

David P

After calling around, We decided to go with Lanny and the team at wire works for our whole-house remodel. Wire Works was able to skillfully accomplish not only the initial scope of work (New electrical throughout, distributed audio/video/internet) but also the hurdles we encountered as we got deeper in to the project. I especially appreciated that I felt like I could trust Lanny, and that when I asked him a question he gave me a straight-forward, unbiased answer. We would definitely use Wire Works again.

Anne DeVries

Lanny is a real pro, very friendly and very good at what he does. It's been a year since he basically re-wired our home and brought it into the 21st century and we still love it. I would absolutely recommend him for your next electrical job.

Holly Hill

"WIRE WORKS" (Lanny) is "Super Fast" and does super "Quality" work !!!!We now live in another area and wish Wire Works was here !!!!!

Leah Pigeon

Lanny with wire works has worked for us for about 8 years, he completely wire our whole house on the Old North end of Colorado Springs. It's a 106 year old house, did a wonderful job. Over the years he has done several job, very dependable, timely, and clean up his mess.

Maija Woods

Well, planned. Quick, clean, professional. Will definitely continue to use.

Chris Lippard

This is the second time we have had Lanny out to the house. He has now put in a total of 21 canister lights for us. He is very prompt, efficient and professional. I wish all contractors were as good as Wire Works. I will definitely recommend Lanny to my friends and will call on him again should the need arise. Great work Lanny, thank you.

Amy Furfari

Needed an electrician for a transfer switch installation and contacted Lanny. Gave me a good estimate and a quick appointment. He was prompt, professional, courteous, and great to work with. He reviewed what I had planned and provided advice that resulted in a better solution. Lanny is a person who exudes trustworthiness. I will hire him for any future electrical work I may need, and highly recommend him.

Anthony Rodriguez

Lany was the best I've had the pleasure of dealing with. Extremely helpful, polite, and knowledgable. Wire Works will be the only electrician service I will be using from now on. I look forward to our future projects knowing they are a business I can count on and trust.

Kerianne Smith

What a great company! We purchased a new home and on move-in day, we noticed we were without a phone jack. While we use cellphones for telecommunication, both of us depend on internet for work as well as entertainment (streaming television). I immediately started researching for someone to come install a phone jack. Wire Works responded promptly to my inquiry, communicated with me through the weekend and came and installed the jack first thing Monday morning. Great customer service, friendly and informative. We highly recommend them for work that you need done, we will be using them again.

Kari Larson

We have used 3 other electricians in town. Wire works is by far the best, most professional and gets the job done right the first time. Other companies have treated our electrical problems by fixing the symptoms, costing us money over and over. Wire works gets to the actual problem and fixes it right the first time.he always saves us money in the long run.

Fred Wink

Just purchased a home and wanted to upgrade the theater, put a new TV over the fireplace, and optimize the structured wiring for internet access. Hired Lanny after researching CoS options, and we're really glad we did. The results were outstanding. He listens to the customer, makes realistic suggestions, and insures the quality of his work to include returning when some post installation issues arose.

JoLyn Maly

Lanny did an excellent job wiring our re-build in Black Forest for whole house video and a home theater. He know pros and cons of the many equipment choices, and picked an affordable solution for us. Work was done on schedule, and with a very professional looking result. A year and a half later he continues to support us by answering our questions and trouble shooting the few issues we have had with the system.

Neale Minch

Lanny did a great job and even found I had provided a bad cable to use. I would recommend Wire Works to anyone needing some in house wiring

Steven Pittz

Lanny was excellent. I had 5 outlets and a light switch out in a home my wife and I just purchased. We feared the worst but Lanny diagnosed and fixed the problem in about an hour. He wasted no time getting to work and was communicative and professional throughout. He also brought his young son, who in addition to being a great kid, did some of the diagnostic work himself, speeding up the process and saving me money.I would recommend Wire Works without reservation.

Jennifer Klopfenstein

Wire Works responded immediately to our electrical issue and came out the same day. I really appreciate them fixing our issue and they were very reasonably priced. Thank you Wire Works!

Joseph Main

My wife loves to watch movies and, therefore, I decided to surprise her with a nice home theater. My son asked me to contact Wire Works and I was so impressed with their quickness and quality of work. Home theater installation was done in less than a day and without making unsightly holes in the walls. She loved the surprise, thank you Wire Works

Ria Botzler

We just LOVE Lanny! I wish every contractor that we deal with was so, tidy, efficient, and responsive. We have done several lighting improvement projects at Pine Creek Veterinary Hospital and they have exceeded our desires and expectations. If you are in need of a GOOD electrician - go with Lanny - you won't be disappointed!

Kevin Kaul

My experience with Lanny at Wire Works is more than positive. I don't shop around for electricians anymore. I go straight to Wire Works. Lanny is proficient, clean, trustworthy, and his manners are outstanding. If you are looking for an electrician and don't use Lanny you are setting yourself up for disappointment.

Lorelei Jaramillo

Wire Works Co is great to work with no matter how big or small the job! I am a commercial property manager in Colorado Springs and Lanny has handled all of the electrical needs for our shopping center for years. Recently Lanny has also did electrical work for me at home and he was fantastic. I highly recommend them!

Jim Smith

About a year ago I did research on electricians who specialize in home lighting. I found myself returning several times to Wire Works website. I finally called Lanny to come out and talk with us about remodeling our ceiling lights in the lower level. I found him easy to talk with, open to listening to our ideas, and offering creative solutions to meet our needs. Lanny finished the project on time and for less than he estimated. Beyond his professionalism and expertise as a Master Electrician, Lanny also treated our house as he would his own. He cleaned up the area each day before he left. I am glad we chose Wire Works and we look forward to more projects with Lanny in the future.

Ron Thomason

Wire Works--Lanny Woods as it is personified--does professional, reliable and timely work which he guarantees and backs up with personal commitment. Mr. Woods serves his clients not only with scheduled, "planned" work and service, but aids his clients in emergency cases when immediate action is required. I cannot imagine higher quality work or service, or for that matter, better satisfaction with regards to that work and service.

Cristy Fisher

I investigated various electricians to perform extensive work at our commercially owned business and our residence. After receiving numerous estimates and speaking with many electricians however no one came close to Lanny's professionalism, knowledge and recommendations. He completed the work very quickly, on time and within budget and his estimate. His work is outstanding and he even found and corrected a number of problems our previous electrician made. We will not be using anyone else for our home nor business.

Robert King

"I was hesitant to hire a contractor, because of my past experience with them. However, Lanny came highly recommended with good references. I was very pleased at his professionalism and honesty! I trusted him and wasn't afraid to even leave him alone in my house while he was completing the work. That's peace of mind!!"

Billy Thornton

Lanny, was professional in every way! He returned my call right away, and was prompt about providing an estimate, he scheduled the work as soon as I approved it, and completed it in a timely manner!Thanks Wire Works!!

Sherri Woods

This company is very Trustworthy, Knowledgeable, Detail oriented. Have used them for many projects, from lighting, sound, and technical support. The work is done in a quick and efficient manner. Nice to be able to trust someone these days! Thanks Good work.

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