People’s increasing demand for more data traffic and higher data speed promotes the evolution of communication technology. The size of data center becomes larger and cabling system becomes more complicated. Recently, home network deployment springs up and a new network technology becomes a hot spot topic—PoE (Power over Ethernet). How much do you know about it? Do you use PoE devices? This article will focus on things related to PoE.PoE
PoE technology allows network switches to transmit both power and data through an Ethernet cable at the same time. Take digital security camera for example. A digital security camera normally requires two connections to be made when it is installed: a network connection and a power connection. The former one makes the camera communicate with video recording and display equipment, while the latter one delivers the electrical power for the camera. 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. Some equipment in home network usually use PoE, such as VoIP phone, IP camera and wireless access point.
PoE+
If you use PoE devices, you must have noticed that there are PoE+ devices on the market. What is the difference between them? PoE devices utilize the original PoE standard, IEEE 802.3af, which provides up to 15.4W of DC power to each device. While PoE+, also known as PoE class 4, is the latest standard, IEEE 802.3at, which provides up to 30W of power to each device. That’s to say PoE+ can provide almost twice as much power as PoE over a single Ethernet cable. High-powered IP devices such as PTZ cameras use PoE+. In addition, compatible NVRs use integrated PoE+ ports to provide power and PTZ commands to the camera, as well as video connection to the NVR.PoE Switch
A PoE switch is a network switch that has Power over Ethernet injection built-in. It is straightforward to add PoE to your network. Simply connect other network devices to the PoE 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 edge switches with a few ports, up to complex multi-port rack-mounted units with sophisticated management.
Advantages of PoE
PoE technology brings several advantages to home network deployment:
Time and Cost Savings: A single Ethernet cable can support both data and power transmission. Besides, running Ethernet cable does not require a qualified electrician, it can be done by yourself.
Flexibility: Without being tethered to fixed power outlet, there are more placement options for devices such as IP cameras and wireless access points, and they can be repositioned easily if required.
Safety: PoE delivery is intelligent, and designed to protect network equipment from overload, underpowering, 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 simple and effective.