The PWR-IE480W-PCAC-L is a 480-watt, AC-input power supply module. Its primary role is to convert the standard 100-240V AC power from a wall outlet into the low-voltage DC power required by compatible Cisco industrial switches, such as those in the IE-3200, IE-3300, IE-3400, and IE-5000 series.

This unit is identifiable by its part number:

PWR-IE: Denotes it’s a Power supply for Industrial Ethernet equipment.
480W: Specifies its maximum power output of 480 Watts.
PCAC: Indicates it’s a Power Cord, AC-input model.
-L: Signifies it’s a “Long” or extended-length module, a common design for easier handling and installation in tight spaces.

Key Features and Benefits

1. High Power Output: With 480 watts at its disposal, this power supply can comfortably support switches that are fully populated with power-hungry modules, such as PoE (Power over Ethernet) and PoE+ modules. This makes it ideal for powering devices like IP phones, wireless access points, and industrial cameras directly through the network switch.

2. Universal AC Input: Its wide input voltage range (100-240V AC) allows for deployment virtually anywhere in the world without needing a different power supply model. It automatically adapts to the local power grid, simplifying global deployments and inventory management.

3. Hot-Swappable Redundancy: This is a critical feature for mission-critical environments. The PWR-IE480W-PCAC-L is designed to be hot-swappable, meaning it can be inserted or removed from a compatible switch without shutting the switch down. This allows for the implementation of redundant power supplies; if one unit fails, the other instantly takes over, ensuring zero network downtime.

4. Ruggedized for Industry: Built to meet industrial standards, this power supply is capable of operating in extended temperature ranges and can withstand the vibrations and electrical noise common in industrial settings.

Who Is It For?

This power supply is an essential component for network engineers and industrial system integrators building robust networks for:

1. Manufacturing and Process Automation
2. Oil and Gas Facilities
3. Intelligent Transportation Systems (e.g., railways, traffic control)
4. Power Utility Substations
5. Any environment requiring reliable, high-power networking with PoE capabilities.

The Bottom Line

The Cisco PWR-IE480W-PCAC-L is more than just a simple component; it is the foundation for a stable and resilient industrial network. By delivering high-wattage, reliable, and redundant power, it ensures that critical switches—and all the devices connected to them—remain operational, keeping modern industrial operations running smoothly.