1. Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the setup, operation, and maintenance of your NETGEAR 16-Port PoE+ Gigabit Ethernet Plus Switch (GS316EP). This switch features 15 PoE+ ports with a total power budget of 180W, designed to power various PoE-enabled devices such as VoIP phones, IP cameras for surveillance, and wireless access points. The GS316EP includes both basic and advanced network management features to optimize business network performance through an easy-to-use web browser and responsive mobile management GUI.
2. What's in the Box
- 16-Port PoE+ Gigabit Ethernet Plus Switch (180W) (GS316EP)
- Power cord
- Installation guide
- Insight registration flyer
- Wallmount kit
- Desktop rubber feet
3. Setup
The NETGEAR GS316EP switch supports flexible placement options, including desktop and wall mounting. Refer to the included installation guide for detailed instructions on securing the switch in your desired location.
3.1 Initial Connection
- Connect the power cord to the switch and a power outlet.
- Connect your network devices (e.g., computers, IP cameras, VoIP phones) to the 15 Gigabit Ethernet PoE+ ports using standard Ethernet cables.
- For uplink to your core network, use the dedicated 1G SFP port.
The switch is designed for quiet operation, making it suitable for various environments.
Figure 1: Front view of the NETGEAR GS316EP switch, showing 15 PoE+ Gigabit Ethernet ports and one 1G SFP uplink port.
Figure 2: Dimensions of the NETGEAR GS316EP switch, indicating its compact size for desktop or wall mounting.
4. Operating Instructions
The GS316EP is an Easy Smart Managed Essentials switch, offering a balance of plug-and-play simplicity with essential management features. Management can be performed via a web browser or a mobile management GUI.
4.1 Power over Ethernet (PoE+)
The switch provides 15 PoE+ ports, each capable of delivering up to 30W of power, with a total power budget of 180W. This allows for powering compatible devices directly through the Ethernet cable, simplifying installation and reducing cable clutter.
Figure 3: PoE power compatibility for various network devices.
4.2 Network Management Features
The Easy Smart Managed Essentials software provides capabilities to configure, secure, and monitor your network. Key features include:
- VLANs: Create separate and secure sub-networks for different traffic types (e.g., employee, guest, IP cameras, IoT) to enhance security and performance.
- Quality of Service (QoS): Prioritize network traffic to ensure optimal performance for critical applications like VoIP and video streaming.
- IGMP Snooping: Optimize multicast traffic delivery, particularly useful for IP TV and other streaming services.
- Advanced Per-Port PoE Control: Manage power to individual PoE ports, including enabling/disabling power and setting power schedules for security and energy savings.
- Uninterrupted PoE: Maintain power to connected PoE devices even during switch firmware updates or reboots.
Figure 4: Web interface for configuring VLANs and other management features.
Figure 5: Visual representation of per-port PoE control and scheduling.
4.3 Official Product Overview Video
Video 1: An official NETGEAR video introducing the 16-Port PoE+ Gigabit Ethernet Plus Switches, highlighting features like VLAN functionality, PoE+ power capabilities, per-port PoE control, and uninterrupted PoE during firmware updates.
5. Features
The NETGEAR GS316EP switch offers a robust set of features for efficient network management:
- 15 Gigabit Ethernet ports for high-speed wired connections.
- 15 PoE+ ports with a 180W total power budget to power compatible devices.
- 1 x 1G SFP uplink port for long-distance fiber connectivity to the core network.
- Easy Smart Managed Essentials software with an intuitive interface for configuration, security, and monitoring.
- Supports desktop or wall mount placement for flexible installation.
- Energy efficient design compliant with IEEE802.3az standards.
- Silent operation, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments.
Figure 6: Key features and physical specifications of the GS316EP switch.
Figure 7: Comparison of NETGEAR switch management levels.
6. Maintenance
To ensure optimal performance and longevity of your NETGEAR GS316EP switch, consider the following:
- Firmware Updates: Regularly check for and apply firmware updates via the web management interface to ensure the latest features and security patches. The switch supports uninterrupted PoE during these updates.
- Environmental Conditions: Operate the switch within its specified temperature range (up to 70°C) and ensure adequate ventilation.
- Energy Efficiency: The switch is designed to be energy efficient, compliant with IEEE802.3az, contributing to lower power consumption.
7. Troubleshooting
The switch provides visual indicators and software tools to assist with troubleshooting:
- LED Indicators: Observe the LED lights on each port for activity and link status. Green indicates a 1000M link, while yellow indicates a 10/100M link. Error indicators can signal issues with a connected line.
- Software Diagnostics: Utilize the management software to diagnose network issues. It can help identify problems with specific lines or ports, indicating if a cable needs replacement or adjustment.
8. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | GS316EP-100NAS |
| Number of Ports | 16 (15 x Gigabit Ethernet PoE+, 1 x 1G SFP) |
| PoE+ Ports | 15 |
| Total PoE Budget | 180W |
| Data Transfer Rate | 1000 Megabits Per Second (Gigabit) |
| Interface Type | PoE, SFP |
| Product Dimensions (L x W x H) | 11.26" x 4.02" x 1.06" |
| Item Weight | 2.3 Kilograms (5.06 pounds) |
| Case Material | Metal |
| Voltage | 50 Volts (DC) |
| Upper Temperature Rating | 70 Degrees Celsius |
| UPC | 606449153637 |
9. Warranty and Support
The NETGEAR 16-Port PoE Gigabit Ethernet Easy Smart Managed Essentials Switch (GS316EP) comes with an industry-leading 3-year limited hardware warranty. For product registration, technical support, and additional resources, please refer to the included Insight registration flyer or visit the official NETGEAR support website.
