Abstract: Remote powering enables you to place end devices where they’re needed—instead of worrying about their proximity to a power source. There are several options when it comes to remote powering: direct current (DC), Power over Ethernet (PoE) and now fault-managed power systems (FMPS). Each one has its own benefits and is defined in the NFPA 70® National Electrical Code® (NEC) as a different class.
Class 2 remote power delivery (DC power supplies and PoE) carries a 100W power limitation and has a “practical” reach of only a few hundred meters. Network connectivity to end devices that require more than 100W or are installed several hundreds of meters from a switch or patch panel can lead to costly solutions. FMPS is a new technology, now defined as Class 4, that goes beyond the limitations of Class 2 while maintaining the benefits and flexibility of remote powering.
To be properly listed, Class 4 cables require UL 1400-2 certification. Belden is the first cable manufacturer to receive certification to Class 4 requirements for copper-only and hybrid cables. Within this paper, definitions of NEC Classes 1, 2, 3 and 4 are discussed, along with cable requirements for each class and the types of cables available for each class (Category cabling, copper-only cables and hybrid cables). An explanation of UL 1400-2 certification requirements is discussed as well.
From this paper, you’ll better understand what Class 4 is, what cabling is required to support it and how it fits into the NFPA 70 NEC. Empowered with this information, you’ll be able to make the right decision about remote power options and know how to properly connect end devices to optimize your network for today and tomorrow.
About the Presenter:
Ronald Tellas is a subject-matter expert in RF design and Electromagnetic Propagation and joined Belden in 2016 to help define the roadmap of technology and applications in the Smart Building and Data Center. He represents Belden in the ISO WG3 committee, TIA TR42 Premises Cabling Standards and IEEE 802.3 Ethernet Working Group and is a committee member of NFPA 70 Code-Making Panel 3 and 16. Ron is the inventor of 16 US patents. He has a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from Purdue University, a Master of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from Illinois Institute of Technology, and a Master of Business Administration from Purdue University.
This technical paper was originally presented at last year’s IWCS Forum. Plan to attend the 2024 IWCS Cable & Connectivity Industry Forum October 14–16 in Providence, Rhode Island, USA. Click here for details.
