If you are involved in the maintenance of Ethernet networks, you’d have noticed that electronic devices like routers and switch ports may sometimes get damaged due to lightning. Why expose expensive electronic/network devices to unpredictable natural surges and hope that nothing will happen, when you can actually connect them through the Ethernet surge protector, and ensure that nothing will happen to them? An Ethernet surge protector will ensure peace of mind, as you know that your devices are safe, even in the midst of thunder-storms.
What is an Ethernet Surge protector and why is it required?
If you live in an area that is prone to lightning, thunder and other high surge inducing phenomenon, you may be aware that any cable coming in from outside is susceptible to carrying excessive electrical charge (especially when lightning strikes). This charge is then transmitted to the device the cable is connected to, resulting in substantial damage. Either individual ports or entire electronic devices maybe damaged if the surge level is high. In many cases, other devices connected behind it may also be damaged.
Routers connected to Internet, Switch ports connected to Wireless Access Points/Antennas placed outside, are all susceptible to damage. In order to avoid this, the cable connected to the electronic device can be connected through the Ethernet surge protector, instead of being connected directly.
The connection is simple – the Ethernet cable is removed from the Ethernet port of the electronic device and is connected to one port of the surge protector. Another cable is used to connect the other port of the surge protector, back to the electronic device. The logical connection remains the same – an additional device is connected in-line between the device and the connection and it does not disturb the connection in anyway.
Is there any effect on performance of the electronic device?
This Ethernet surge protector supports 10/100/1000 Mbps (Gigabit Ethernet) and hence the performance/speed is not diminished by connecting it in-line.
Does it support POE?
Power over Ethernet (POE) is utilized to supply electricity to some electronic equipments directly through the Ethernet port. Since this Ethernet surge protector supports POE, power is still transmitted through the Ethernet port (from a POE switch/POE injector) and the POE setup is not affected.
What are the salient points about this Indoor Ethernet surge protector?
- Supports Gigabit Ethernet standard (10/100/1000 Mbps).
- Supports POE (Power Over Ethernet). You can connect POE enabled devices through this Ethernet surge protector and both data/power will still be transmitted through it.
- Inexpensive, especially considering the value of the equipment it protects.
- It has a small form-factor and can be kept inside the closet along with other electronic devices.
- Easy to install, doesn’t require a specialist for installation. But since grounding is required for the device to work properly, you may want to take the help of an electrician while installing it.
- Protects all four pairs of the Ethernet cable – Cat5, Cat5E, Cat6, etc.
- Made of cast aluminum – hence it is tough, sturdy and has an elegant look.
- High insulation resistance ensures that it can handle high level of surges.
- RoHS compliant – toxic substances have not been used while manufacturing and hence it is safer to dispose.
- Bi-directional clamping ensures that you can fix it firmly, anywhere.
- Doesn’t impact/reduce the performance of the attached electronic devices.
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