StarTech.com, a leading manufacturer of hard-to-find connectivity parts has announced the release of the IES8100POEGB - an 8-port IEEE Power over Ethernet switch capable of delivering up to 15.4 Watts of power, as well as network data, to up to 8 PoE-compliant devices - double the capability of most IEEE 802.3af Power over Ethernet switches to date. The switch can be used as a PSE (Power Sourcing Equipment), eliminating the need for peripheral power supplies for end-point powered network devices such as IP phones, wireless access points and video cameras.

The new PoE switch features a compact, yet rugged metal design that makes it suitable for industrial environments and other applications that require durable equipment. The switch can be used with existing network wiring (Cat5, Cat5e or Cat6), making it easy to situate without having to re-run network cables."This new Power over Ethernet switch, with its advanced switch design, is a very versatile endspan for many different environments and applications. Its ability to deliver full power through all ports makes it a unique and effective network tool." said Carey Cline, Senior Product Manager for StarTech.com's Networking I/O product line.

Features of the new IEEE 802.3af Power over Ethernet Switch include:

- Up to 15.4 W of power delivery through each network port
- Auto MDI/MDI-X port detection as well as full/half-duplex auto-detect
- IEEE 802.3x flow control for full-duplex and back-pressure flow control for half-duplex

Recommend Retail price for the IES8100POEGB 10/100 Power over Ethernet Switch is £172.99 (GBP). It is available for purchase from leading technology resellers including Insight, Amazon.co.uk and Dabs and will also be distributed by Enta, Ingram Micro and Micro-P.