The Beneﬁts of Opting for PoE in Streaming Speakers

Written by Karin Cahill | 16/02/22 22:11

PoE (Power over ethernet) is one of the most convenient innovations in network technology. Where normally two connections are made for networked devices; a network connection and a power connection; a PoE enabled device receives signal and electrical power through a single RJ45 ethernet cable connection. Advantageously, Bluesound Professional’s well-known line of PoE+ and PoE++ network active loudspeakers including the BSP200, BSP500

and BSP1000, reap the beneﬁts of this one-wire solution. Here are some key beneﬁts of opting for a PoE speaker for your next commercial audio install:Flexibility

The ability to provide power over ethernet in speakers like the BSP200, BSP500 and BSP1000 allows them the ﬂexibility to be placed where they are most needed without being tethered to a power outlet. This is particularly helpful in public or outdoor spaces where access to electrical sources may be sparse.

Network Stability

A stable network connection is paramount when providing high-quality, undistorted audio to a commercial space through streaming speakers. A wired, secure networked connection for streaming speakers to communicate is better than wireless options which are prone to cause dropouts and can lack security. Figure 1 shows an example of the simple three-step setup process to power and connect a BSP200 Speaker to a networ

1. PLUG IN YOUR PLAYER
WATCH FOR THE LED TO TURN SOLID BLUE

2. GET THE BLUOS APP
USE YOUR PHONE OR TABLET

bluesound.com/downloads

3. ADD YOUR BSP200 TO THE NETWORK
USE THE APP TO FINISH SETUP

Figure 1: After connecting the BSP200 speaker to a LAN/USB (RJ45) port, add the speakers to the network using the BluOS App to complete the setup.

Cost-efﬁciency

Allowing power to be provided through one ethernet cable eliminates the cost of installing an AC mains receptacle, which is typically required for powered speakers. This process often requires bringing in a permitted electrical contractor as most AV integrators are not licenced to install mains power infrastructure. The cost savings especially great when setting up multiple speakers like the BSP200 in a stereo or surround conﬁguration.

Easy setup, easy connection

Thanks to its one-wire design, installing a PoE powered speaker takes only minutes. Seamlessly swivel up to 40º or rotate the speaker 360º on its wall mount without having a labyrinth of cables and wires in the way. Figure 2 shows an example of a PoE connection port on the BSP1000 Network Streaming Speaker.

CONNECT
ETHERNET CABLE

PoE+, PoE++
Enabled Switch Port or PoE+, PoE++ Injector Type 2 30W,
or Type 3 60W

To access rear I/O Port:
Remove 4 screws holding I/O plate.
Use screwdriver edge or sharp knife
to lift plate. Pass Ethernet cable through grommet and hole to connect cable, before re-attaching I/O plate for proper operation.

Figure 2: On the back of the BSP1000, the ethernet cable passes through a grommet and hole to preserve weather resistance of the speaker and its IP65 rating. One end of the cable connects to the BSP1000’s LAN/USB (RJ45) port while the other end connects to a corresponding port of PoE+ or PoE++ Data/Power supply.

Simplicity

Bluesound Professional PoE speakers also incorporate a streaming audio player in each speaker. This allows total grouping/zoning ﬂexibility and completely eliminates a front-end audio rack. Our PoE speakers and a suitable PoE switch constitute a complete music system without any additional components.

Evidently, PoE powered loudspeakers are setting a new standard in commercial audio solutions for advantages like ﬂexibility, stability, simplicity, and a setup process that only takes minutes. Bluesound Professional offers three sizes of PoE Network Streaming Speakers; BSP200, BSP500, and BSP1000; where each model is designed to suit different commercial audio installation needs.

See more about Bluesound Professional’s line of PoE+ and PoE++ powered network active loudspeakers here.

To locate a Bluesound Professional dealer click here.

To speak to someone from our Bluesound Professional team, click here.

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