[Asterisk-Users] Power Over Ethernet for *any* ethernet switch (or hub); product idea

[Michiel Betel]

Ken Alker wrote:

> Based on several threads I've read on this list, I assume that it 
> would be handy to supply POE (power over ethernet) in an environment 
> without having to purchase POE switches (assumed expensive) and 
> abandon one's existing (familiar/custom/not-yet-expensed/etc.) 
> switches/hubs.
>
> Assume I have a non-POE switch with 24 RJ-45 (ethernet) ports.  I 
> design a 1U box that can be mounted just above/below the non-POE 
> switch, call it a "POEI" (POE inserter).  This box has 48 RJ-45 ports, 
> 24 "inputs" and 24 "outputs".  The end user removes all the ethernet 
> cables connected to the existing switch and moves them to the 
> "outputs" of the POEI.  Next, the end user takes six-inch long 
> ethernet cables and connects each (now vacant) port of the existing 
> switch to the "inputs" of the POEI.

Ken,

The boxes youn describe are already being manufactured by amongst others:
http://www.powerdsine.com/Products/Midspan/

I have no idea on pricing though......

Regards, Michiel