Use OpenSprinkler DC with Power over Ethernet (PoE).

Occasionally we come across use cases where users Power over Ethernet (PoE) want to use, whereby a single Ethernet cable takes over both the network connection and the power supply. This configuration eliminates the need for a separate power line and is therefore particularly useful in remote or hard-to-reach locations where running additional cables is difficult. To enable PoE, a PoE switch feeds voltage - typically 48 VDC - into the Ethernet cable, which then transmits both data and power. A PoE compatible circuit is required on the receiver side to bring the voltage to a usable value, e.g. B. 12 VDC, to be downregulated. OpenSprinkler does not support PoE natively because its Ethernet module and power supply do not comply with PoE standards. However, you can use a commercially available one PoE splitter Use to separate power and data: The splitter outputs 12 VDC and a standard Ethernet signal (without 48 VDC). Since OpenSprinkler DC is powered by 12 VDC, it is compatible with a PoE switch in conjunction with a suitable splitter.

The image below shows a typical PoE splitter. At one end there is an Ethernet socket to which the PoE cable is connected. The other end splits the signal into two outputs: a 12VDC power connector and a standard Ethernet port. The 12 VDC plug plugs into the OpenSprinkler DC power connector, while the Ethernet plug plugs into the wired Ethernet module.

The following diagram illustrates the complete structure. With this configuration, a single Ethernet cable can provide both power (for the controller and solenoid valves) and data connection. We successfully tested this setup with a TP-Link 4-port PoE switch, a 12VDC @ 2A PoE splitter, and an OpenSprinkler DC with a wired Ethernet module - it worked perfectly. Please note that this configuration is only compatible with DC powered OpenSprinkler models (including OpenSprinkler Latch) as these can be powered directly from 12VDC. It is not suitable for OpenSprinkler AC as there is no easy way to convert 12 VDC to the required 24 VAC.