Rethinking legacy power distribution: the case for fault-managed power

Technology and efficiency are never static. They’re built on evolution and innovation, which means their core infrastructure must be adaptive, too.

Case in point: legacy power distribution. The power delivery methods that have sustained us for well over a century aren’t cutting it anymore. (Can you imagine if the systems responsible for distributing data had remained virtually unchanged for 100+ years?)

There are many reasons why legacy power distribution is no longer viable:

• There is a significant shift toward DC power, as buildings and infrastructure increasingly rely on DC-powered devices. But our current power distribution systems are designed primarily for AC power, which introduces unnecessary conversion losses.
  
  
• Power-intensive computing is on the rise to support AI servers and hyperscale cloud services, and it consumes massive amounts of electricity.
  
  
• The world is moving toward electrification, and smart buildings are relying on more energy-intensive devices, systems and applications.
  
  
• Traditional power distribution is built for one-way power flow to consumers via large, centralized plants. But renewable energy resources introduce two-way flows, where electricity can be produced and fed back into the grid.

It’s difficult to meet growing energy demands while navigating these infrastructure limitations. Soon, the world will have no choice but to seek a more efficient and resilient way to distribute power.

Fault-managed power is the answer

Fault-managed power (FMP), also known as Class 4 systems, could be the answer we need, as it redefines what’s possible with power distribution.

Because it safely delivers high levels of DC power across long distances, FMP can support power distribution across large facilities, widespread campuses and remote locations. It reduces the need for multiple conversions, improving efficiency. And it can be paired with data, creating a unified infrastructure.

How FMP can augment legacy power distribution

As more devices are added to the network, power delivery to the edge of the network is needed. PoE (Power over Ethernet) solves this need, and FMP can be used to power the equipment that safely delivers PoE to the end devices. Using wiring methods not possible with legacy power distribution methods, FMP can be deployed faster and easier, all with the added low maintenance benefits of centralized power.

From how it works to how it’s installed, there are many characteristics that make FMP different and capable while being safe.

Detects and manages faults autonomously for safe power distribution

Unlike traditional power, FMP can detect and address faults to maintain safe and uninterrupted power distribution. Relying on “pulses” or “packets” of power instead of continuous currents, its built-in fault detection stops power distribution when a fault is detected. This mitigates the risks of shock or fire compared to standard AC power and ensures that continuous power is available by quickly isolating power issues.

Reduces complex electrical infrastructure requirements

Much of the infrastructure required for legacy power distribution, such as conduit, breakers and panels, isn’t necessary with fault-managed power. These systems don’t rely on traditional electrical wiring methods, making installation and expansions faster and more cost-effective. Because it takes up less physical space, FMP also supports more efficient layouts that allow buildings to maximize square footage.

Supports a variety of power needs

From IoT devices to large-scale industrial systems, FMP can support a wide range of power needs. As operational demands grow, it can scale easily without downtime or significant infrastructure changes. It also consolidates power distribution for multiple systems, allowing them to be powered from a centralized source for easier monitoring, troubleshooting and maintenance.

Advantages of FMP adoption

FMP also offers many benefits to the buildings that rely on it for their power infrastructure.

Less energy loss

Traditional AC systems require multiple conversions between AC and DC, which leads to energy loss and inefficiencies. But FMP delivers DC power directly, with fewer conversion steps, to maximize energy utilization and reduce energy waste.

Intelligent power monitoring

With built-in real-time monitoring and fault detection, power distribution can be proactively managed to prevent failure and ensure system reliability.

Lower installation and maintenance costs

Simplified installation and wiring methods allow technicians to handle installation. Because many of the components required with legacy power distribution aren’t needed, FMP is faster, easier and more cost effective to install.

Sustainable power distribution

Because it reduces energy waste and infrastructure needs, and it’s compatible with DC power sources like solar panels and fuel cells for efficient integration of renewable energy, FMP can enable more sustainable power distribution. This helps organizations reduce emissions and shift toward net-zero energy targets.

FMP is ready to support modern power distribution

FMP meets the increasing power demands of modern digital infrastructure and equipment while maintaining and improving upon existing safety standards.

It’s a considerable improvement to how power is delivered, and it’s becoming a crucial technology to consider for modern power distribution needs.

Belden is proud to be a founding member of the Fault-Managed Power (FMP) Alliance, an open industry association that advocates for, promotes and accelerates the adoption and integration of fault-managed power technologies across diverse industries.

We played a key role in securing UL certification for FMP, as well as making sure it was included in the 2023 National Electrical Code (NEC), and our goal is to continue facilitating real conversations about what’s possible with fault-managed power.

Learn more about FMP systems.

Related links:

• 4 Reasons ICT Integrators Should Be Excited About Class 4 Systems
• New Class 4 Systems Change How Technology is Powered
• Support Rising Data Center Power Demands with Digital Electricity