A communication unit for a communication system includes at least one IO (input/output)-module; a communication interface board connecting the at least one IO-module with at least an external device for a data exchange via an external network, wherein the external network is capable of transmitting power and data over a common network connection; a power supply interface configured to receive power from an external power supply provider, wherein the power supply interface is configured to supply the at least IO module with power.

A communication unit for a communication system includes at least one IO (input/output)-module; a communication interface board connecting the at least one IO-module with at least an external device for a data exchange via an external network, wherein the external network is capable of transmitting power and data over a common network connection; a power supply interface configured to receive power from an external power supply provider, wherein the power supply interface is configured to supply the at least IO module with power.