There are many benefits to implementing the advanced technology of an IP clock system into your facility. IP clocks provide the user with a low-power solution, many useful features, and (when PoE is implemented) a system that gets power and data from one wire. However, with a system so robust and so innovative, the system cannot simply be installed without the necessary infrastructure in place. For example, in order to run an IP system through PoE, in which clocks receive power and data through one cable, there is specific technology that needs to be present in the building. Implementing PoE, as well as an entire IP clock system requires the installation of certain equipment into your facility. This article will outline each piece of equipment in detail.

Special Wiring

The wiring required for an IP clocks system is not any old wiring. In other words, the wires used to power lights or other appliances will not work for IP clocks as well. For communicating with IP clocks, CAT5 or CAT6 wire must be used. This wire is made up of 8 smaller wires, all of them being routed to their designated opening in the end of the connecter. Additionally, not any connecter can be used for IP clocks either. Connecters in this system must consist of RJ-45 connecters; the only type of plug that an IP clock will receive.

Router

One of the other great benefits of the IP clock system is that each clock in the system is provided with their own individual IP address. With this feature, each clock can be assigned its own configuration with different settings or displays, giving the user full control of the system. However, in order for every clock to receive a separate IP address from the rest of the clocks in the system, a router must be installed. The job of a router is to distribute IP addresses to all devices connected to the router via CAT5 cable. Without the use of a router, IP clocks will not receive an IP address and therefore will not receive the time.

Poe Switch

Lastly, the equipment necessary for implementing PoE capability into your facility is a PoE switch. The switch, or sometimes referred to as a PoE hub, integrates directly with every connection coming from the router. The PoE switch takes the IP data from the router, combines that IP data with the proper voltage to power the clock, and sends both the data and power back out through one CAT5 cable to the clock. The PoE switch turns a normal Ethernet jack (like the ones used to provide computers with internet access) and enables it with PoE technology, allowing the clocks that are plugged into that jack to receive power as well as an IP address.

Before going to implement IP clocks into a facility, users must be aware of the equipment required to properly and effectively run the system. Though the cost of an IP system and it’s necessary equipment is no greater than many wired systems, it is important that the user is aware of what type of infrastructure will be needed before the actual installation of the clocks. However, after the proper infrastructure is implemented, the user will be able to enjoy the great benefits of an IP clock system.