Adtran this week is launching its first power over Ethernet switch-router as well as announcing the addition of 802.3af PoE functionality to its line of Ethernet switches.

The idea behind PoE is to let carriers and enterprises deploy premises-based switching equipment without external power sources. The concept is catching on faster as more business customers opt for LAN-powered voice-over-IP phones, wireless access points, and security cameras.

Adtran's entry, the NetVanta 1000 Series switch-routers, combine a 24-port managed Ethernet switch, an IP access router, a stateful inspection firewall and optional VPN and dial backup capabilities. In total, the company is launching four new products: the NetVanta 1224R PoE and NetVanta 1224STR PoE switch-routers, and NetVanta 1224 PoE and NetVanta 1224ST PoE Ethernet switches.

The 1224r is particularly interesting to CLECs, said Joe McClain, product manager for Adtran.

"It includes our NetVanta 3200 router, firewall and VPN," he said. "It's an all-in-one box that has found a nice niche in the CLECs and the big carriers."