PoE Connector Testing to IEC 60512-99-001 and IEC 60512-99-002

Power over Ethernet (PoE) performance testing services

UL Solutions, a leader in applied safety science, offers performance testing services for connectors used in PoE applications based on:

• IEC 60512-99-001 (Connectors for electronic equipment - Tests and measurements - Part 99-001: Test schedule for engaging and separating connectors under electrical load - Test 99a: Connectors used in twisted pair communication cabling with remote power)  
• IEC 60512-99-002 (Connectors for electrical and electronic equipment - Tests and measurements - Part 99-002: Endurance test schedules - Test 99b: Test schedule for unmating under electrical load)

These IEC standards provide a test schedule to determine the ability of sets of connectors to withstand a minimum number of engagements and separations when an electrical current is being passed through the connectors during the separation (unmating) step.

When disconnecting PoE devices while the circuit is still active (with an electrical load), arcing may occur between the connector contacts. This can lead to corrosion of the contact materials over time, resulting in a poor electrical connection. If the connector contacts on a PoE device exhibit significant deterioration, the device will need to be replaced or repaired, increasing the overall cost of maintaining the PoE system.  

To address this issue, PoE connectors may be evaluated for their durability according to the IEC 60512-99-001 and IEC 60512-99-002 standards. These tests simulate the load conditions and aging process experienced by the connectors during use.