The Rise of PoE: More Devices, More Power

June 16, 2025

Joel Guilbert, Dale Pro Audio
A few years ago we had discussed an emerging format used to power smaller networked devices, called Power Over Ethernet. Well, a few years later, there are a LOT more of these small networked devices out there; and they all still need power! 

Power over the ethernet went from specialty to a required format in a short period. What are some of the devices being powered over Ethernet?

High Quality Media oriented ethernet switch with locking EtherCON connectors
 
New style microphones convert analog signals to digital before sending it to the audio network. The power for this digital conversion comes from network connection itself. Microphones run the gamut from ones that look like a normal large diaphragm condenser - like the form factor of the Voyage Audio Spatial Mic Dante - to ceiling grid mounted examples with 28 microphone capsules like the Sennheiser TeamConnect Ceiling 2.

A single low profile Cat5e cable connection can help mics like the Shure MXA310 (pictured) or Yamaha RM-TT confidently sit on an elegant conference room tabletop without drawing attention to itself with multiple bulky or unsightly wires.

Here's where it gets more interesting: PoE coming from a switch or inline injector can also be used to send power to ceiling speakers (such as the Soundtube IPD pictured). Dante equipped power amplifiers like the Glensound Comedia-V or the simpler Shure MXN can be placed up to 300 feet from the ethernet switch, unobtrusively near the speaker location. In the past, getting audio 300 feet from the amplifier would have required very thick cable if running really low impedance, or dedicated 70 ohm equipment, and the sound issues accompanying it.

The convenience of having a single power and data connection for devices becomes of special importance for devices that need to be mounted in very particular areas.

For items like audio loudness meters, being located within an operators available peripheral eyesight is paramount. Having a monitor controller (for Dante or AES67/ST-2110) or intercom panel at easy fingertip's reach makes it possible to work in a comfortable position for a longer time - and still be able to clearly hear what you need.

Only needing a single cable for signal and power makes it possible to get this equipment in the right place at the right time.

Joel Guilbert is Dale Pro Audio's Technology Development Manager, and assists on technical support inquiries, system design and integration, and much more for our company. He can be reached at joel@daleproaudio.com.

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