Port and cable connection labeling using optical elements

An apparatus comprising:

• a port configured for operation at a network device in a power over communications cable system, and configured to receive a cable assembly operable to transmit power and data when coupled to the port;
• a port optical element positioned within the port to align with a plug optical element of the cable assembly when the cable assembly is coupled to the port;
• and
• a light pipe extending through the port for transmitting light from a light generating device to the port optical element;
• wherein the port optical element is configured to process the light and emit the light onto the plug optical element to provide an indication of compatibility between the cable assembly and the port based on a power setting of the port and a power capacity of the cable assembly, when the cable assembly is coupled to the port.

An apparatus comprising:

• a plug comprising a cable end having a cable inserted therein and a free end for insertion into a port;
• the cable configured to transmit data and power when coupled to the port and comprising a specified power capacity;
• and
• an optical element located on said free end of the plug and configured to process light received from the port based on said specified power capacity of the cable when the plug is inserted into the port;
• wherein the light processed by the optical element is emitted from the plug to provide a visual indication of compatibility between the cable and the port based on a power setting of the port and said power capacity of the cable when the plug is inserted into the port.