Abstract: A method for execution in a central controller comprises obtaining an interconnection topology for a plurality of nodes interconnected via hybrid data/power links; obtaining a power distribution map associated with the topology; and causing DC power to be distributed to the nodes via the links according to the power distribution map. Also, such a node in which there is at least one power-receiving port and at least one power-transmitting port, a controller and power switching circuitry. The controller operates based on power drawn from a portion of the DC power received via the power-receiving port. The controller determines a destination of data packets received via any of the ports and outputting those of the received data packets that are not destined for the network device via another one of the ports. The controller also causes the power switching circuitry to output via plural power-transmitting ports respective portions of the received DC power received at the power-receiving port.

Abstract: A method for execution in a central controller comprises obtaining an interconnection topology for a plurality of nodes interconnected via hybrid data/power links; obtaining a power distribution map associated with the topology; and causing DC power to be distributed to the nodes via the links according to the power distribution map. Also, such a node in which there is at least one power-receiving port and at least one power-transmitting port, a controller and power switching circuitry. The controller operates based on power drawn from a portion of the DC power received via the power-receiving port. The controller determines a destination of data packets received via any of the ports and outputting those of the received data packets that are not destined for the network device via another one of the ports. The controller also causes the power switching circuitry to output via plural power-transmitting ports respective portions of the received DC power received at the power-receiving port.

Abstract: A plurality of intermediary devices may be interposed in a hybrid data/power connection between a power source and a powered device. In one aspect, the intermediary devices may be connected in series. Such connecting may be referred to as “daisy chaining.” In other aspects, the intermediary devices may be connected in a tree or a mesh. Each intermediary device may be configured to consume, for its own use, power that is supplied over the hybrid data/power connection and to deliver remaining power over the hybrid data/power connection to at least one other device. Furthermore, each intermediary device may be configured to independently route data and power to downstream devices.

Abstract: A plurality of intermediary devices may be interposed in a hybrid data/power connection between a power source and a powered device. In one aspect, the intermediary devices may be connected in series. Such connecting may be referred to as “daisy chaining.” In other aspects, the intermediary devices may be connected in a tree or a mesh. Each intermediary device may be configured to consume, for its own use, power that is supplied over the hybrid data/power connection and to deliver remaining power over the hybrid data/power connection to at least one other device. Furthermore, each intermediary device may be configured to independently route data and power to downstream devices.

Abstract: A method for execution in a central controller comprises obtaining an interconnection topology for a plurality of nodes interconnected via hybrid data/power links; obtaining a power distribution map associated with the topology; and causing DC power to be distributed to the nodes via the links according to the power distribution map. Also, such a node in which there is at least one power-receiving port and at least one power-transmitting port, a controller and power switching circuitry. The controller operates based on power drawn from a portion of the DC power received via the power-receiving port. The controller determines a destination of data packets received via any of the ports and outputting those of the received data packets that are not destined for the network device via another one of the ports. The controller also causes the power switching circuitry to output via plural power-transmitting ports respective portions of the received DC power received at the power-receiving port.