According to the invention, an Ethernet system and method of using an Ethernet system is provided including a network side device (a hub/switch/concentrator), and a plurality of end devices (either a standard end device powered locally or a system powered device), connected to the hub/switch. The system powered devices have circuitry for indicating the system power need to the hub, which has a power source for selectively supplying system power over the Ethernet. A stimulus device associated with the network device sends a stimulus signal over the network connection lines during a detection phase. The need for power is signaled by an indication device associated with the system powered end devices, providing an indication signal in response to the stimulus signal. A detector associated with the network side detects the indication signal thus triggering the power source to supply system power to each of the end devices that is a system powered device and not to each of the end devices that is a standard device.