What is POE, and Why is it so Positive?

🔌 What is PoE?

PoE delivers DC power along with data over standard Ethernet cabling (usually Cat5e or higher). This eliminates the need for separate power supplies for network devices like IP cameras, VoIP phones, and Wi-Fi access points.

⚙️ Types of PoE

There are three main standards of PoE, each increasing in the amount of power delivered:

1. PoE (IEEE 802.3af)

• Power Output: Up to 15.4W per port (12.95W usable after cable loss)

• Typical Devices: Basic VoIP phones, simple IP cameras, access control readers

• Cable Required: Cat5e or higher

2. PoE+ (IEEE 802.3at)

• Power Output: Up to 30W per port (25.5W usable)

• Typical Devices: Wi-Fi access points, PTZ cameras, video phones

• Cable Required: Cat5e or higher

3. PoE++ (IEEE 802.3bt)

• Power Output:

  • Type 3: Up to 60W per port (51W usable)

  • Type 4: Up to 100W per port (71W+ usable)

• Typical Devices: Smart displays, all-in-one PCs, LED lighting, kiosks

• Cable Required: Cat6a or higher recommended for Type 4

🏗️ What Devices Use PoE?

• IP Cameras (especially outdoor and PTZ models)

• Wireless Access Points (indoor/outdoor, Wi-Fi 6/6E)

• VoIP Phones

• Networked Sensors / IoT Devices

• Digital signage / Info kiosks

• Smart lighting systems

🧰 Types of PoE Hardware

Now let’s clear up the roles of common PoE devices. Each has a specific use case, depending on whether you’re supplying PoE, receiving it, or extending it.

🔁 PoE Switch

A network switch with built-in PoE support on some or all of its ports.

✅ Pros:

• Clean, all-in-one solution

• Often includes management features

• Powers multiple devices from one central point

💡 Best for: Structured networks with many PoE devices (e.g., office buildings, smart homes, security systems)

➕ PoE Injector

Adds PoE to a non-PoE Ethernet connection by “injecting” power.

✅ Pros:

• Great for small deployments (1–2 devices)

• Cheaper than replacing a switch

❌ Cons:

• Not scalable

• Requires two units per device (injector and standard switch)

💡 Best for: Adding PoE to existing non-PoE switches or routers

🔀 PoE Splitter

Takes in a PoE signal and splits it into separate data and power outputs (for use with non-PoE devices).

✅ Pros:

• Lets non-PoE devices work on PoE networks

• Good for legacy devices

💡 Best for: Old IP cameras, media players, or other networked devices that don’t support PoE natively

🔄 PoE Extender

Used to extend the range of PoE beyond the 100-meter Ethernet limit.

✅ Pros:

• Enables long cable runs

• Often plug-and-play

❌ Cons:

• Power loss over distance

• May require multiple units in very long runs

💡 Best for: Large campuses, parking lots, outdoor Wi-Fi APs

📊 Quick Comparison Table

✅ Final Thoughts

Power over Ethernet simplifies installations and reduces cable clutter—but only when used correctly. Whether you're powering a few security cameras or building a full smart office, understanding PoE standards and choosing the right hardware can make or break your setup.

If you'd like to chat about your options and what would work best for your business, reach out by phone: 801-373-7779, email von@hello1983.com, or using this link: