A data communications network that includes a data communications device and a midspan device where the data communications device directs data to computerized devices, such as IP phones, within the network and the midspan device provides power to the computerized devices. The data communications device and midspan device are electrically coupled such that the data communications device can monitor and control operation of the midspan device using otherwise unused pairs of conductors connecting the data communications device and the midspan device. For example, the data communications device can monitor and control an amount of power transmitted by the midspan device to the computerized devices over the network. Additionally, based upon the monitoring, the data communications device can activate an indicator, such as a visual indicator associated with the midspan device, to provide an indication of an operation state of the midspan device.