Powered devices (PDs) continue to proliferate in SOHO and SMB markets, driving the need for easy-to-use, single-port integrated PoE/PoE+ PSE solutions to enable these end devices. With the increasing popularity of the higher-power IEEE 802.3af PoE+ standard and the need to support powered device applications consuming up to 30 W, developers require PSE controllers that offer flexible power metering and monitoring capabilities, standards compliance, and seamless interoperability.
The Si3462 controller is a complete and cost-effective single-port PoE and PoE+ PSE solution. When deployed with the new Classification Optional Mode, the Si3462 eliminates the need for up to 10 discrete components, reducing the total cost of materials for integrated PSE. In this mode, the Si3462 controller determines when a valid powered device is connected at the other end of the cable and immediately applies a predetermined amount of power. This mode optimizes cost and simplicity for applications that do not require classification, such as proprietary operating systems with a fixed set of powered devices.
The innovative architecture of the Si3462 controller eliminates the need for a microcontroller and related software, simplifying overall system integration, mitigating software development costs and risks, and reducing time to market. The Si3462's device detection, classification, commissioning, fault monitoring, protection, and shutdown processes all operate according to the hardware pin configuration without the aid of a central processor or MCU. The Si3462 continuously monitors the power supplied to the device, ensuring that each device is operating safely and within all IEEE PoE/PoE+ specifications.
The Si3462 controller offers a variety of user-friendly, pin-selectable operating modes that enable flexible use of the device in both PSE endpoint and center-tap applications. While primarily designed for PSE endpoint products, the Si3462 controller also readily supports center-tap power injectors, commonly used in small business LANs. Center-tapping allows a remotely powered device to be driven by a non-PSE-capable Ethernet switch by inserting the center-tap between the PSE endpoint and the powered device.
