Power over Ethernet: Everything You Need to Know

Hi everyone, Juan David here—Tech Support Lead at Flytec! Today, we’re exploring one of the most exciting and practical innovations in networking: Power over Ethernet, or PoE. Whether you’re upgrading your home network or building an industrial setup, understanding PoE is essential for making informed choices about your infrastructure. Let’s dive into what PoE is, what it does, and how its different types meet various networking needs.

What is Power over Ethernet (PoE)?

Power over Ethernet is a technology that allows Ethernet cables to deliver both data and electrical power to connected devices. This means a single cable can connect a device to the network while simultaneously powering it, eliminating the need for separate power cords and outlets. It’s an incredibly efficient solution, especially for installations in hard-to-reach places, such as ceiling-mounted cameras or outdoor access points.

By transmitting power through the same cable that handles data, PoE simplifies installations, reduces costs, and makes it easier to scale your network. Whether you’re setting up IP cameras in a warehouse or deploying wireless access points across an office, PoE eliminates many logistical challenges.

How Does PoE Work?

Ethernet cables used in PoE applications have four twisted pairs of wires. Depending on the PoE standard, power is transmitted over two or all four pairs while data signals occupy the same cable. Don’t worry—power and data don’t interfere with each other. They use different frequencies, allowing seamless functionality.

In its early iterations, PoE standards transmitted power over two pairs, leaving the other two solely for data. However, newer standards take full advantage of all four pairs, allowing higher power output and better efficiency. This evolution has been key to supporting more demanding devices like multi-radio access points and smart building systems.

What Can PoE Do for You?

The versatility of PoE has made it a game-changer in networking. It’s commonly used to power devices such as VoIP phones, static and PTZ security cameras, wireless access points, and even video conferencing equipment. Its benefits go beyond simplifying cable management. By eliminating the need for power outlets near each device, PoE makes installations more flexible and cost-effective, especially in locations where running electrical wiring would be difficult or expensive.

For industrial settings, PoE is particularly valuable. It facilitates efficient data and power transfer to key equipment, supports IoT devices, and enables applications like environmental monitoring and employee safety systems. The ability to centralize power control means PoE devices can be backed up by a single UPS, ensuring uninterrupted performance even during power outages.

Understanding the Different Types of PoE

Not all PoE solutions are created equal. The IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) has established standards that define the capabilities of PoE, which have evolved over the years to meet increasing power demands. Currently, there are 3 main types of PoE , as well as a non-standard option known as Passive PoE:

• PoE (IEEE 802.3af)
  Type 1 is the original PoE standard introduced in 2003. It delivers up to 15.4 watts of power per port, providing about 12.95 watts to connected devices. This is sufficient for devices like basic surveillance cameras, VoIP phones, and entry-level wireless access points. It’s an excellent option for networks with minimal power requirements.
• PoE+ (IEEE 802.3at)
  Released in 2009, PoE+ doubled the power capacity of its predecessor. With up to 30 watts per port and about 25.5 watts available for devices, PoE+ supports more power-intensive equipment such as PTZ cameras, video IP phones, and RFID readers. It’s backward compatible with Type 1 devices, making it a versatile choice for expanding existing networks.
• PoE++ (IEEE 802.3bt)
  Known as 4-pair PoE, Type 3 and Type 4 are part of the 802.3bt standard, delivering up to 60 watts (Type 3) or 100 watts (Type 4) per port. These power levels support advanced devices like multi-radio access points, high-performance building management systems, LED lighting, and digital signage. This standard uses all four twisted pairs in the cable, ensuring efficient power delivery while supporting data speeds up to 10 Gbps. It’s ideal for modern offices and industrial environments with demanding network needs.

Passive PoE

Passive PoE differs from the IEEE standards as it does not conform to any universal specification and typically operates at a fixed voltage. The power output depends on the device and the voltage provided by the power source. Common voltages include 24V and 48V. While less versatile than standard PoE, Passive PoE is widely used in environments where specific compatibility between power injectors and devices (such as some wireless access points or outdoor equipment) is assured. It's a cost-effective option for deployments that don’t require the dynamic power negotiation provided by IEEE-compliant PoE.

Choosing the Right PoE Solution

Selecting the right PoE type depends on the power requirements of your devices and the capabilities of your network infrastructure. For example, if you’re powering basic IP phones and cameras like the Fanvil X5U and Ubiquiti UVC-G4-PRO, PoE might suffice. For more advanced setups, such as high-density access points like the Ubiquiti U7-Pro, PoE+ provides the additional power needed. For high-powered applications such as PTZ cameras and digital signage, devices such as the Ubiquiti UVC-G4-PTZ and UC-Display, PoE++ is ideal. If your setup includes devices designed for specific power requirements, such as outdoor wireless radios like the Ubiquiti RP-5AC-Gen2, Passive PoE can be a cost-effective solution.

Cable quality and length also play a role in determining which PoE standard to use. Higher-powered devices often require Cat5e or better cables to avoid voltage drops over long distances.

The Future of PoE

With the proliferation of IoT devices and the increasing power demands of modern equipment, PoE continues to evolve. Its role in smart buildings, industrial automation, and advanced networking solutions is expanding, making it a critical component of future-ready infrastructures.

At Flytec, we’re here to help you design and implement PoE solutions that meet your unique needs. Whether you’re upgrading an office network or building a smart factory, our team has the expertise and products to make it happen.

Let’s connect and power your network to the next level!

Juan David, your Tech Support Lead at Flytec!