8 Benefits of Power Over Ethernet Lighting

Power over Ethernet (PoE) lighting systems are smart lighting systems that run on low voltage cabling. Instead of high voltage power (like power outlets), PoE systems are connected to your network infrastructure switches by copper cabling. This type of system allows for easier installation, customization, and cost savings.

How does PoE lighting work?

PoE lighting is a smart lighting solution combining LED luminaries with digital controls to create desired lighting effects for your environment. Smart lighting is controlled by a software and can be customized for different purposes throughout your space. PoE systems are very powerful in controlling each and every light point in a space with options for on/off, dimming, color tuning, emergency lighting and integrations with HVAC and BMS systems.

These systems work by collecting and transmitting data to and from the data center, which is essentially the brain of your space. When a sensor notices movement in one room, the message is sent to the data center triggering the lights to turn on. If you prefer warm lighting in your office, you can tell the system to alter the lighting in your space alone. Conference rooms and collaboration spaces are often lit with cooler lighting and temperature to increase productivity. With an HVAC integration you can control both the lighting and the temperature of a space with the touch of a button. Emergency lighting can be programmed to turn on automatically in the event of a fire alarm, security breach or natural disaster. In large office spaces this can be helpful in directing occupants to safety using lit pathways.

What are the benefits of PoE lighting?

Now that we understand what PoE lighting is, we can dig into some of the major benefits. While we have mentioned the benefits of automated and customizable lighting, we have barely scratched the surface of what these smart lighting systems can do for us.

1. Easy Installation

   PoE lighting uses low voltage power – often less than 60 volts. These installations do not require metal cladding or conduit which decreases hazards and makes installation faster. Low voltage work does not carry as high of safety risk, which decreases the cost of installation.
   
   

2. Cost Savings

   Along with installation cost savings there are less costs of operating over time. This smart system uses analytics to learn the habits of your space and can provide you with information to reduce energy use while maintaining high lighting quality.
   
   

3. Flexibility and Control

   Once a PoE system is installed, individual devices can be disconnected, moved, or reconnected with little to no downtime. Instead of needing to shut down an entire area for maintenance, like you would with high voltage lighting, you can work on individual light points.
   
   

4. Integrations

   PoE lighting can be integrated with anything connected to your network. This includes security cameras, door lock systems, digital displays, phones, and occupancy sensors. If a security camera is triggered by motion, the lights can also be triggered to aid in clear video recording. This reduces energy use by allowing lights to be off in a space unless needed.
   
   

5. Social Benefits

   Smart lighting benefits a building’s occupants by optimizing lighting levels, balancing light colors to a person’s preference, and increasing safety. It also dramatically decreases energy demands which provides benefits to society and the environment. PoE lighting is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint.
   
   

6. Data Analytics

   Collecting and analyzing data is how we make decisions. Since data travels both directions though ethernet cables, PoE software can provide insights on further cost savings, areas of improvement, and information on how your space is being used.
   
   

7. Secure and Reliable

   PoE systems are not reliant on wireless technology. Since the lighting is connected via ethernet cord your connectivity with remain stable and uninterrupted. This type of system also allows for additional security measures to be implemented.
   
   

8. Safety

   PoE lighting can be programmed to create pathways to safety the event of a physical threat such as a fire, intruder, or natural disaster. If employees or cleaning personnel are in the space later in the evening the lighting system can operate automatically to ensure safety.

As you can see there are a multitude of benefits of a PoE smart lighting system. From easy installation to the ability to control the lights with your smart phone, it is easy to understand why it has taken the world by storm. As we continue to find ways to combat climate change, reducing our energy consumption is one way we can do our part. PoE lighting is a great way to do just that while also enhancing productivity, employee satisfaction, and safety.

If you have any questions about PoE lighting or smart buildings reach out to us at 763-475-5500 or ContactUs@Matrix-NDI.com. We would love to help you transform your space into a smart building.