Mouser Electronics has set a new global standard with its impressive 413,000-square-foot global distribution center. This three-story facility stands as the world's largest new Class 4 DC-powered installation, showcasing a groundbreaking approach to intelligent and eco-friendly warehousing.
At the core of this achievement is Lantronix's robust PoE++ switches (models SM24TBT2DPB and SM24TBT2DPB-DE). These switches are critical components of the Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) lighting system.
"By utilizing Lantronix PoE++ switches, we were able to distribute power and controls throughout the Mouser warehouse using low-voltage DC," explains Hannah Walker, COO of Sinclair Digital, the Authorized Lantronix VAR that supplied the DC digital solution. "This approach is ideal for creating a sustainable building that significantly reduces energy costs, minimizes the carbon footprint, and provides a more comfortable work environment."
Mouser Electronics' commitment to environmental responsibility was a driving force behind its adoption of PoE technology. This method delivers both DC power and data directly to devices like lighting fixtures and sensors via standard copper Ethernet cabling, eliminating the need for separate power outlets and power supplies. Additionally, the integration of fault-managed power, a specialized DC power infrastructure, reduces energy losses typically incurred during AC-to-DC conversion.
Within the new facility, power distribution modules located in the ceiling enclosures efficiently convert fault-managed power into high-voltage DC power for the Lantronix SM24TBT2DPB-DE switches. These switches then supply up to 90W of PoE++ power per port to various connected devices, including advanced lighting fixtures and occupancy sensors. Furthermore, SM24TBT2DPB switches are strategically deployed in racks throughout the warehouse to power additional lighting, security cameras, and wireless access points.
The sophisticated PoE lighting system was designed by electrical engineering firm Baird, Hampton & Brown in collaboration with Sinclair Digital's comprehensive DC digital solution package. This DC power infrastructure not only helps Mouser reduce its environmental impact but also significantly improves lighting control and lowers operational expenses.
The tangible benefits realized by Mouser's all-DC-powered PoE lighting solution include:
- Significant energy savings: Reduced energy consumption translates directly into lower operating costs.
- Reduced environmental footprint: A minimized carbon footprint supports corporate sustainability goals.
- Enhanced flexibility: Improved lighting control allows for dynamic adjustments to illumination.
- Lower Maintenance: Fewer traditional electrical components lead to reduced maintenance requirements.
- Improved employee comfort: A well-controlled lighting environment contributes to a more productive and comfortable workspace.
- Adaptability: The system allows for easy reconfiguration and relocation of lighting as warehouse needs evolve.
Pete Shopp, SVP of Business Operations at Mouser Electronics, underscores the long-term strategic advantages: "Our Dallas-Fort Worth distribution center now operates on the world’s largest Class 4 power system. This provides state-of-the-art lighting for our employees and helps us reduce our energy usage over the long term. Crucially, it offers the scalability and flexibility to move or add devices as our needs change, further reducing our long-term costs.”
Spotlight on the Lantronix SM24TBT2DPB PoE++ Switch
The Lantronix SM24TBT2DPB is an enterprise-grade Layer 2 PoE++ managed switch specifically engineered for high performance in intelligent LED lighting systems and smart building IoT applications. Its ability to deliver 90 watts per port enhances efficiency and provides greater PoE lighting capacity from a single switch port.
Beyond its role in lighting, the switch is highly versatile for a wide array of smart building IoT applications, including access control, digital signage, wireless access points (WAPs), and IP surveillance systems. The market for connected building automation systems in Europe and North America is experiencing robust growth, with Berg Insight forecasting a rise from an estimated 22.7 million systems in 2021 to 34.4 million by 2024 (a CAGR of 14.9 percent). Market revenues are also projected to grow significantly, from nearly $31.8 billion in 2021 to $48.4 billion in 2024 (a CAGR of 15.0 percent).
With a robust 52 Gbps switching capacity, the SM24TBT2DPB features twenty-four 10/100/1000Mbps copper ports compliant with IEEE 802.3bt PoE++ standards, along with two additional 100/1000Mbps dual-speed SFP/RJ-45 combo ports. It can deliver full PoE++ output across all 24 ports when equipped with dual hot-swappable PS-ACDC-1200 power supplies.
For intelligent LED lighting applications, the SM24TBT2DPB's use of low-voltage power translates into lower installation costs and provides a data connection that enables precise management of light settings, including on/off, brightness, color temperature, and hue. In IP surveillance scenarios, it efficiently provides both power and data to high-power cameras, such as PTZ IP and thermal cameras. The hot-swappable dual power modules ensure scalability and redundancy, minimizing downtime, while a soft reboot feature allows for warm reboots without disrupting power to attached PoE devices, maintaining continuous lighting even during firmware upgrades.
The successful collaboration between Lantronix and Mouser Electronics serves as a powerful example of how advanced networking solutions can lead to substantial energy savings and operational efficiencies, paving the way for smarter and more sustainable industrial environments worldwide.
