The 802.3af [[Power over Ethernet]] has superior power negotiation and optimization capabilities to powered USB butand issupports limitedtransmission toof sub-ampereup powerto ranges50W (typically 720mA) byover the legacy RJ45 cables it employs for power/data. However, theseThese can run many more metres than USB, albeit with significant DC power loss, and will remain accordingly the preferred option for [[VoIP]], [[security camera]] and other applications where networks extend through a building. Digital musical instruments are an application where USB3 and power over ethernet compete directly, with the latter having the advantage of a broadcast medium and the former having the advantage of powering speakers and high-wattage devices - the MIDI plug standard formerly used for digital instruments is now also obsolete. {{citation needed}}
Ethernet is also the preferred connection method for high-end devices because of its support for long cables, meaningful link lights, consistency between manufacturers, arbitrary topologies, etc.
