What are my power options for the RB435G? The only thing I can think of, is to run 2 cables up the tower… 1 for Power, the other for data. This is doable, but seems a waste.
Why? One PoE cable is enough. There is nothing special about this board. It can be powered just like all other routerboards. All you need is a GigE PoE injector (http://www.routerboard.com/index.php?showProduct=100)
I appreciate that the product you’re offering is available, and while I will likely use it, I’ve come to dislike dongles with a passion, they’re a messy eye sore. I’m also not a huge fan of wall-warts and power bricks. It’s just a really messy way to do things.
Is there no other GigE injector that does not use a wall-wart and dongle?
Your options are 802.3af or a wall wart and a dongle. For the routerboard series that don’t accept 802.3af you need a dongle anyway to plug into the PoE switch. Ubiquity makes some called instant 802.3af.
Unfortunately a wall wart and a dongle is likey your cheapest and best option.
These guys make quite a few elegant solutions for providing power to both PoE and non-PoE devices over Cat-5 cabling as well:
http://www.panoptictechnology.com/network-smart-adapters/