As technology advances, the demands on our connectivity networks are increasing exponentially. To keep up with the advancements in hardware and software, new ways of powering these networks are critical. Class-4 or Fault-Managed Power is the latest in power technology that is helping network designers keep up with the demands of high-speed, low-latency network solutions. This blog post will help readers understand Class-4 Power, specifically Panduit’s new Pulse Power platform, how class-4 power increases network performance and reliability, and how Class-4 power helps organizations save capital vs. traditional network powering methods.

Understanding Class-4 power and how Panduit’s Pulse Power System makes it Accessible for any Network

The new NEC code changes to section 70 provide new guidelines for Class-4 power systems. Class-4 power is constantly monitored for faults which virtually eliminates the risk of shock and fire. With these limitations, power systems can be engineered to transport power safely over extremely long distances while maintaining performance, efficiency, and safety. Panduit has used this framework to create its Pulse Power platform.

Pulse Power uses a newly developed technology by Panduit to deliver power in a “pulse current waveform”. This technology enables the required fault protection to comply with the NEC code while being able to provide power up to 30x the distance of traditional Class-2 power systems. The Pulse Power system is exceedingly safe with redundancy in fault detection across a single copper pair. Pulse Power is highly reliable, able to provide power over Kilometers, requires NO conduit or junction boxes, has built-in remote monitoring and control, and hot-swappable components.

The Impact of Class-4 Power Systems for Building and Enterprise Networks

Class 4 power systems are an incredibly useful tool for deploying network infrastructure, as they offer significant benefits over traditional AC power and Class-2 power.

A truly centralized power system.

Centralized class-4 power systems offer significant benefits over traditional wired systems. Not only do they provide a single, streamlined method for power distribution, but because the system is centralized, it also allows remote monitoring, troubleshooting, and control capabilities across the network to any device location. Plus, with a centralized platform, it is easy to incorporate a robust backup solution (battery or UPS based) that spans the entire network without the need for remote UPS’s.

Cost-effective for any size network

Class-4 power systems not only provide significant benefits in capability but are also extremely cost-effective. Efficiency: DC power distribution is more efficient than traditional AC power distribution, meaning the DC system can use fewer components and less cabling while achieving greater power delivery. Additionally, the installation for the Class-4 system doesn’t require A-Card electricians, enabling low-voltage cable installers to run and connect the cables and devices quickly and easily; saving as much as 40% on labor and materials costs. Finally, expanding the system’s reach or increasing the system’s capacity is simple, making the upgrade process quick and straightforward.

Unmatched reliability and safety

Safety and reliability are two of the most important priorities in a class-4 network, and they come built into the system from the very beginning. Not only does this make it much easier to safely maintain the network, it also reduces the potential risks for accidental injuries. We can’t talk about safety without talking about network redundancy. With a simplified network architecture and small-diameter cables, power redundancy can be built into the network quickly and inexpensively from the very beginning. Not only are class-4 networks safe, but they have built-in features that make it easy for network administrators to accurately monitor usage levels down to each individual device. This helps improve the reliability and performance of the network as a whole and any areas that have critical power needs.

Where NPN sees Class-4 Power Having the Greatest Impact in our Networks

Our Large Venues Designing connectivity for large venues presents some significant challenges, especially when looking at how we can power our devices. Class-4 power enables us to centralize the power system without having to worry about voltage drop when dealing with spaces that can be upwards of a million square feet.

Our Commercial Offices Commercial offices largely have AC power available in the core of the building on every floor. But too often, there is a significant cost to extending that power to tenants or to the areas of the building where we need it. On top of that, without a large generator or small UPS scattered through the building, there is no ability to get backup power. With a class-4 solution, we can deliver power to any enterprise tenant or base-building device with minimal cost and the added benefit of hours of battery backup.

Our Outdoor Networks Similar to large venues, outdoor networks suffer from the problem of not always having power where you need to place equipment and those devices being, in general, very far apart. The Class-4 solution to this makes it easy to scale the outdoor networks without having to worry about finding power.

Our Mission-Critical Networks There are several industries that have mission-critical connectivity needs, Oil & Gas and Healthcare are the top two that NPN works with. In these fields, several challenges make designing and deploying power for connectivity difficult. Many of these businesses have a mix of campuses, corporate offices, remote facilities, labs, and more. Class-4 power systems will allow us to standardize our connectivity architecture across a wide range of buildings while maintaining a high level of reliability.

Class-4 power systems are the newest safe way to power connectivity solutions. Whether that connectivity solution is a cellular DAS, a Wi-Fi network, a GPON network, or even a rooftop cell site, a Class-4 power distribution system can allow you to centralize your power and battery backup, deploy a cost-effective power solution, and provide peace of mind with reliable components.