How fault-managed power can solve hidden power problems in hospitality

It has never been more important to make every square foot of your hotel property work harder to improve revenue and optimize operations.

But rising operational costs, fluctuating demands, sustainability goals and the call for exceptional guest experiences are all competing priorities in this quest to make sure every inch of space contributes value.

That’s where fault-managed power enters the picture.

Also known as a Class 4 system, fault-managed power provides the safety and convenience of Power over Ethernet (PoE), or a Class 2 system, while carrying more power across longer distances.

These systems limit power availability during a fault event by monitoring for faults and controlling power delivery. If someone touches exposed wires or splashes water onto circuits during operation, the system immediately shuts off, making Class 4 systems just as safe as—if not safer than—Class 2 systems while offering more power.

Following the same installation as Class 2 systems, fault-managed power systems can be installed using the same wiring methods as Category cabling and PoE systems.

These benefits alone are strong reasons for hotels to consider fault-managed power, but there are other advantages to understand as well.

Fault-managed power systems are easy to scale

Typically, a hotel renovation or expansion would involve major rewiring or a web of circuit breakers, transformers and distribution panels. These complexities can limit expansion possibilities and increase renovation costs.

But fault-managed power makes it simple and straightforward to add new devices and amenities without these hassles. Its plug-and-play approach doesn’t require extensive infrastructure upgrades.

The technology also makes it possible to upgrade infrastructure without disrupting operations, which can be an inconvenience to staff and guests and can negatively impact revenue. There’s no need to shut down a portion of the facility for rewiring.

Connections are more reliable with fault-managed power

Smart hotels rely on connected devices to manage and control everything from guest services to building management. Downtime caused by spikes in demand isn’t acceptable.

Traditional power distribution systems—which rely on fixed power allocation—can’t respond to unexpected spikes in demand. Instead, they require manual intervention to reallocate resources so they can support larger loads.

But fault-managed power has integrated real-time fault detection that automatically detects demand and adjusts power distribution accordingly. This allows power to be directed to wherever it’s needed so services and systems are fully functional, even during periods of peak demand.

Minimal space is required for fault-managed power systems

Space optimization is another prime reason that hospitality environments benefit from fault-managed power. When a hotel can dedicate as much square footage as possible to revenue-generating spaces—and less square footage to spaces like telecommunications closets—they can increase bookings and profits.

The system’s transmitters and receivers are small and efficient and don’t eat up square footage. Fault-managed power doesn’t require bulky conduit, either, so its cables can be routed through tight spaces and take up less room than conventional wiring layouts. And because fault-managed power uses a single cable to carry power and data, there’s no need for separate pathways that take up even more valuable space.

Space preservation becomes even more important in historical hospitality renovation, since space for new wiring is limited (these buildings weren’t designed to make way for lots of telecommunications equipment). In these environments, for example, fault-managed power could transmit electricity from power servers at the basement level up to floor-level enclosures. From there, Power over Ethernet can connect individual loads. There’s no need to upgrade electrical panels or conduit.

Power delivery across longer distances is possible with fault-managed power

Distance is another factor that makes fault-managed power a great fit for hospitality spaces. The technology removes installation constraints and ensures reliable power delivery. It enables you to place PoE devices anywhere you need them, and not just where there’s a power outlet nearby. And when these devices need more power than what PoE can provide, fault-managed power can take care of that, too.

Whether they’re 35-story high-rises, expansive resorts or multi-building campuses, hotels must often rely on remote power to connect smart building technologies like:

• Wi-Fi access points
• In-ceiling switches
• IP cameras
• Sensors and controllers

Remote power systems are also needed to efficiently connect systems across different types of spaces—conference facilities, restaurants, gyms and pool areas, outdoor spaces and more.

Fault-managed power systems excel at carrying power across long distances to maintain consistent performance across the property without the need for additional infrastructure.

Proud to be industry pioneers

As one of the pioneers of fault-managed power and its incorporation into the 2023 National Electrical Code and UL certification, Belden can help hotels use the technology to connect to what’s possible, establishing seamless connectivity and efficient power distribution.

As a member of the FMP Alliance, we’re proud to help educate the industry about what fault-managed power can do.

Learn how we support fault-managed power.

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