Power over Ethernet (PoE) Explained
Power over Ethernet (PoE) is a technology that lets network cables, such as CAT5e or CAT6, carry electrical power.
For example, a security camera would normally require two connections to be made when it is installed:
- A network connection, in order to be able to communicate with a DVR and any display equipment.
A power connection, to provide electrical power the camera needs to operate.
However, if the camera is PoE-enabled, only the network connection needs to be made, as it will receive its electrical power from this cable as well.
Specifying Power over Ethernet brings many advantages to an installation:
- Time and cost savings – by reducing the time and expense of having electrical power cabling installed. Network cables do not require a qualified electrician to fit them, and can be located anywhere.
Flexibility – without being tethered to an electrical outlet, devices such as IP cameras and wireless access points can be located wherever they are needed most, and re-positioned easily if required.
Safety – PoE delivery is intelligent, and designed to protect network equipment from overload, under powering, or incorrect installation.
Reliability – PoE power comes from a central and universally compatible source, rather than a collection of distributed wall adapters. It can be backed-up by an uninterruptible power supply, or controlled to easily disable or reset devices.
Scalability – having power available on the network means that installation and distribution of network connections is fast, simple and effective.
PoE has many applications such as:
- VoIP phones – the original PoE application. Using PoE means phones have a single connection to a wall socket, and can be remotely powered down, just like with older analogue systems.
IP cameras – PoE is now found throughout networked CCTV surveillance camera systems, where it enables fast deployment and easy re-positioning.
Wireless – Wifi & Bluetooth Access Points and RFID readers are commonly PoE compatible, to allow remote location away from AC outlets, and relocation following site surveys.
How to upgrade to PoE
Adding PoE to your network is straightforward, and there are two routes you can choose:
A PoE switch is a network switch that has Power over Ethernet injection built-in. Simply connect other network devices to the switch as normal, and the switch will detect whether they are PoE-compatible and enable power automatically.
PoE switches are available to suit all applications, from low-cost unmanaged switches with a few ports, up to complex multi-port rack-mounted units with sophisticated management.
A midspan (or PoE injector) is used to add PoE capability to regular non-PoE network links. Midspans can be used to upgrade existing LAN installations to PoE, and provide a versatile solution where fewer PoE ports are required. Upgrading each network connection to PoE is as simple as patching it through the midspan, and as with PoE switches, power injection is controlled and automatic. Midspans are available as multi-port rack-mounted units or low-cost single-port PoE injectors.
