Abstract: A local area networking apparatus comprises a power stage for connecting to a network cable for carrying carry power and data. The power stage comprises a main current flow path which includes a switch comprising at least one transistor positioned in the main current flow path and a current monitoring apparatus for monitoring current flow in the main current flow path, and wherein the current monitoring apparatus comprises a sensor which is not placed in series with the main current flow path. The current monitoring apparatus can comprise a current mirroring stage which is arranged to mirror current flowing in the main current flow path to a monitoring current flow path. The switch can be implemented as a set of switches.