PowerShades has highlighted the advantages of its patented TruePoE motor technology, which powers automated window shades using standard Power over Ethernet infrastructure while drawing less than 5 watts per shade.
The company said its TruePoE motor is designed to address limitations found in traditional PoE and AC-powered shading systems. PowerShades’ TruePoE technology supports shade sizes up to 19 feet, depending on fabric weight and thickness, while operating at ultra-low power levels.
According to PowerShades, TruePoE shades connect directly to standard PoE network switches without the need for injectors or external power translators. Once installed, the shades are immediately available on the network and can be controlled through the PowerShades Dashboard and mobile app.
The TruePoE motor is built on ARM Cortex-M7 processing technology, which PowerShades said delivers significantly increased processing power and expanded code space compared with some competing PoE-based solutions. The platform also supports expanded dry-contact commands, including Stop and Favorite, along with networking features such as VLAN tagging and IPv6 readiness.
TruePoE motors include a built-in web server that allows configuration, limit setting, network adjustments, programmable dry-contact functions and diagnostics to be accessed directly through a browser.
PowerShades said TruePoE shades retain the benefits of its original PoE automation platform, using a single CAT5 cable to deliver both power and communication. Because the motors operate below 50 volts DC, installations do not require a licensed electrician, which the company said can reduce labor costs and installation time.
The system supports centralized power delivery for improved data reliability compared with RF-based systems and allows additional sensors to be added as system requirements change.
TruePoE automated shades also support cloud-based control from smartphones, tablets and PCs, enabling users to create groups, scenes and schedules across single or multiple facilities. Additional features include soft start and stop operation, preset favorite positions and low power consumption.
PowerShades said TruePoE motors can be specified with any new PowerShades indoor product and integrate with a range of residential and commercial automation platforms, including Amazon Alexa, Google Home, Crestron, Control4, RTI, ELAN, URC, Bond Bridge and SmartThings.
