An apparatus and method for enabling Cisco legacy power to support IEEE 802.3
AF standard power. A network power system capable of delivering data terminal equipment
power via a media dependent interface includes power source equipment according
to Cisco legacy power and at least one powered device according to IEEE standard
power. A power compatibility module is inserted between the power source equipment
and the powered device to enable the power source equipment to appear according
to IEEE standard power and the powered device to appear according to Cisco legacy
power. The module includes switches, a DC/DC converter, an IEEE power source equipment
circuit, and an isolator. The module optionally includes a user signaling device
for communicating operating conditions of the module to a user. The module may
be connected to two ports of the power source equipment to supply adequate power
levels to the powered device.
