Fault-Managed Power Ethernet powering techniques call for interest

The following request for agenda time for a Fault-Managed Power Ethernet powering techniques call for interest has been received from Chad Jones. It will be discussed at the IEEE 802 LMSC March 2026 Plenary meeting in Vancouver, BC, Canada.

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Providing power along with Ethernet data via Power Over Ethernet (PoE) has fueled an expansion of networked devices and an ever-increasing demand for more power. PoE was specified such that it could comply with IEC 60950-1 (now IEC 62368-1) Limited Power Source (LPS) requirements, which align with Class 2 requirements in NFPA 70 (National Electrical Code). Recent developments in fault detection methods enable power delivery at higher voltages with techniques that limit energy into a fault, known as Fault Managed Power (FMP), which aligns with Class 4 power in NFPA 70. The addition of FMP to Ethernet powering techniques, including potential modifications to Ethernet PHYs, enables greater power delivery, longer range, and increased efficiency for networked devices. This call for interest is to request the formation of a "Fault-Managed Power Ethernet powering techniques" study group.

The call for interest will take place during the IEEE 802.3 Opening Plenary on the morning of Monday 9th March. A call for interest consensus building meeting will be scheduled to occur during the week. The vote to determine if a Study Group will be formed will take place at the IEEE 802.3 Closing Plenary on the afternoon of Thursday 12th March.