BotBlox has released the Universal PoE Module, an ultra-compact Power over Ethernet (PoE) injector built for compact embedded systems, robotics, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), and industrial applications.
The module has been developed to make PoE easier to integrate into space-constrained designs. PoE allows Ethernet wiring to deliver both power and data, helping reduce cabling and complexity in mobile and Size, Weight and Power (SWaP)-limited platforms by removing the need for additional power wiring.
The Universal PoE Module provides up to 90W of power delivery for embedded systems and supports active PoE up to IEEE 802.3bt Type 4. It also supports passive PoE for legacy devices.
BotBlox developed the module to address the challenges system integrators can face when working with inconsistent PoE implementation across third-party hardware. The Universal PoE Module is designed to support a broad range of PoE requirements, from passive PoE for legacy devices through to IEEE 802.3bt Type 4.
Measuring 28 mm x 28 mm x 11 mm, the module is designed for space-constrained embedded systems. It operates across a -40°C to 85°C temperature range and uses rugged, positive-locking Molex PicoBlade connectors for vibration tolerance. The module also includes two M2 mounting holes for easy mounting.
The Universal PoE Module supports active, standard PoE versions including IEEE 802.3af, IEEE 802.3at, IEEE 802.3bt Type 3, and IEEE 802.3bt Type 4. These cover PoE, PoE+, and PoE++ power levels, with IEEE 802.3bt Type 4 supporting up to 84W maximum power output per port.
For devices that use passive, non-standard PoE, including some older or lower-cost camera systems, the module can support passive PoE by soldering two solder jumpers on the board.
The module also includes an onboard microcontroller and UART port to allow for future serial control of the PoE port, although this software is currently unimplemented.
Technical specifications include a 58-60V input for active PoE, 0-65V input for passive PoE, and a maximum input voltage of 70V. The module has one upstream port and one downstream port, supports 10BASE-T, 100BASE-T, and 1GBASE-T Ethernet speeds, and is NDAA compliant. BotBlox states that the supply chain is based entirely outside of China.
