How do I configure a system to keep the NIC on for WoL?

[Jon_M_S]

So, at my work, I've been tasked with creating scripts to configure and implement Wake-on-LAN (WoL).

Everything works, as long as the IP address stays in the ARP table.

However, no matter the settings, when I turn off a system, the NIC also shuts off, the network connection is lost,

and WoL fails as soon as the ARP table is refreshed. (every 2-5 minutes).

What do I need to configure to keep the embedded NIC awake?

It should be possible, as we utilize PoE for our VoIP phones.

And, yes, I do realize that I can configure most systems to "Boot on Power Loss" (the G4 Elitebooks do not have this setting).

However, this does not allow for a controlled restore should the building lose power, i.e. let's make sure all the routers, servers and switches are on-line before we turn on the PC's. (Even though they are on APC's for 30-40 minutes, let's just check first.)

Thanks in advance for your help!

[Jon_M_S]

So, I found what I have written will work on the same subnet with just the MAC address and a broadcast IP.

Don't really understand why that works, while the specific "last known" IP fails.