Always use the PoE adapter supplied with the SteelHead model 150/250/550/555/755 appliances, even when connected to non-PoE capable equipment.
Although newer models have added internal PoE protection diodes, they are still susceptible to damage and require the use of the PoE adapter.
There have also been indications in the field of "stealth" PoE equipment, meaning SteelHeads have been damaged by equipment that has not been advertised as PoE capable. There is also evidence of SteelHead appliances damaged by Cisco hardware even when power was disabled on the interfaces and when using the power inline never command.
Please ensure that PoE adapter is always used to prevent unnecessary damage (and service interruptions for RMA).
All new SteelHead model 150, 250, 550, 555 and 755 appliances are shipped with the PoE (Power over Ethernet) adaptors.
SteelHead Model CX 255 does NOT need PoE Adapter since the PoE hardware is already included in the SteelHead CX 255 itself.
Note: The bypass mechanism on the bypass cards is sensitive to PoE, and since the Primary and AUX ports do not have this mechanism, you can connect to them without PoE concerns.
The following diagram shows the connections for the PoE adapter:
