This informal CPD article ‘The Application of PoE for Perimeter Security’ was provided by Southwest Microwave, an organisation with experience in the design and manufacture of integrated high-security outdoor electronic perimeter intrusion detection systems.
A key consideration when designing a security system is deciding between PoE (Power over Ethernet) devices (1), and devices that require separate power and network connections. PoE devices present several advantages over more traditional stand-alone options, and although PoE can have a higher up-front cost, it does provide cost savings in other areas, due to simplifying installation and reducing cabling needs. A single network cable – Ethernet CAT 5/6 utilising RJ45 connectors – connects to each PoE device, which in turn connects back to the controlling computer, allowing management of the network to take place from a singular hub, rather than needing to be physically next to a specific module/device. Moreover, when all devices in a system utilise PoE, this creates commonality in power and data delivery, making it easier to connect, manage, and integrate different components within the system.
Product Application
PoE connectivity for a site may be developed for CCTV and PIDS operation. For example, one method of site protection is to use microwave technology, meaning within the outer fence lines there are several overlapping microwave links – consisting of a transmitter (Tx) and receiver (Rx) head - with a radio frequency detection beam between the two. Each head is connected to a PSE (Power Sourcing Equipment) with a CAT 5/6 network cable. Typically, the PSE for PIDS networks will be a PoE enabled network switch to supply DC to each head and provide a communications link. The same network may be connected to several cameras, a computer server and a laptop using a web browser.
PoE technology offers electrical current for wired Ethernet LANs (Local Area Networks) through Ethernet cables. In this manner data and supply electricity is carried by one cable rather than having separate cables, which has greatly assisted with networked CCTV installations.
A simple, single connector (RJ45) and lead (CAT 5/6) connectivity are all that is required to provide both DC supply voltage and communications to devices. Once communications have been established with the devices, such as CCTV cameras and PIDS, software configuration can be achieved using a standard web browser. Additionally, video signals and alarm data can be retrieved and sent to appropriate peripheral equipment, such as one screen to view camera action and another to display graphics of potential intruders.
Technical Merits
Typically, PoE technology will be chosen to enhance the functionality of operations on a site, such as for PIDS or CCTV use. In deciding whether to use PoE and a supporting Ethernet network, consideration will need to be given as to the ease by which such a system can be installed. It may however be that a network is already in situ, making the choice to use PoE easier.
The use of PoE will ease connectivity and compatibility with existing systems such as CCTV. The end terminations for the Ethernet cables is an RJ45 connector. This is simply plugged into devices.
With the use of PoE, networking software tools become available, such as common network search engines. This permits the use of installation and maintenance software by accessing devices based on their IP number. This technique also applies to monitoring software and interfacing with VMS (Video Management Systems).
As PoE is utilising Ethernet technology, network security considerations must be implemented. These are often in-built to devices and controlled through the software to ensure secure transfer of data. The protocol most often used is that of HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure). HTTPS is the secure version of HTTP, the protocol used to transmit data over the internet. It encrypts communication between a web browser and a device, ensuring the privacy and security of data. This completes a streamlined, secure perimeter security system, benefitting from PoE technology, delivering both power and data through a single connection to all key components.
We hope this article was helpful. For more information from Southwest Microwave, please visit their CPD Member Directory page. Alternatively, you can go to the CPD Industry Hubs for more articles, courses and events relevant to your Continuing Professional Development requirements.
References
- What is POE? - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Power_over_Ethernet
- IEEE, Introduction to PoE – ieee.li/introduction_to_poe_802.3af_802.3at.pdf
