The LT®4321 is a dual ideal diode bridge controller that enables a Power over Ethernet (PoE) powered device (PD) to receive power in either voltage polarity from RJ-45 data pairs, spare pairs, or both. The LT4321 and eight N-channel MOSFETs replace the eight diodes in a passive PoE rectifier bridge. The LT4321 eases thermal design and increases delivered power. An internal charge pump allows an all-NMOS bridge eliminating larger and more costly PMOS switches. The LT4321 works with 2-pair and 4-pair applications. High impedance input sense pins prevent reverse current on unused pairs. If the power source fails or is shorted, a fast turn-off minimizes reverse current transients. Unlike discrete ideal bridge solutions, the LT4321 will operate through transients without enabling the MOSFETs on unpowered pairs.
