Are there any SIP phones out there that have three or more ethernet ports such that it would function as an ethernet switch?
To my personal knowledge no. It would not make sense to create such a phone. The only exception would be an ATA that is a router as well.
I have about 30 locations in our facility that need:
- SIP phone.
- Computer.
- Ethernet to serial device.
So I either run two or three wires or run one wire and install a switch for all three devices. Therefore it made sense to me to create such a phone.
[quote=“jkonecn”]
I have about 30 locations in our facility that need:
- SIP phone.
- Computer.
- Ethernet to serial device.
So I either run two or three wires or run one wire and install a switch for all three devices. Therefore it made sense to me to create such a phone.[/quote]
Most people do not need such a set up. The best thing would be for you to run more wiring. I personally make all my clients run separate lines for voice and data and then keep them on separate networks. I have a lot less issues that way.
Although its not a cheap solution 3COM makes a network jack that contains a 4 port switch in it. I used it in one office building that only had one connection in some rooms that needed 2 or 3 and it would have cost double or triple what we paid for the switch jacks to run new lines.
Many people think wire is cheap and while it is in the box, the cost to install it can be very high. For 30 runs I’ll need two maintenance guys on manlifts and about 4 days or more. Wiring in a single story office building is easy, wiring in a factory with little open floor space and 30 foot ceilings is a whole different story.
No one said it was easy or cheap. It is just not the norm which is why no one has such a phone. There are phones with an extra port for the computer - because that is more then norm and not 3. Build up a demand for it and maybe you will have it 
Ok… I demand 30 of 'em! Somebody start makin 'em! 
It’s not exactly that neat but it would stop you having to lay all new cables but how about using a network tap at each of the 30 points to split the data connection. You could use something like the Net Optics Teeny Tap which is also PoE compatible. This would split your one output into three for connection of your phone and serial/ethernet connector as well as using a PC through the phone.
Have a look at netoptics.com/products/produ … twork+Taps