PoE basics: power over the network cable

One camera or access point, one cable, no separate power source needed.

The core idea

PoE (Power over Ethernet) carries electrical power and network data together over the same Cat5e/Cat6 cable. This removes the need for a separate power line to every surveillance camera or WiFi access point, which is the main reason it's so common in camera projects and office network builds.

The three standards

802.3af (PoE): up to 15.4W at the source, enough for a standard IP camera or a VoIP phone. 802.3at (PoE+): up to 30W, enough for a PTZ (motorized) camera or a high-power WiFi access point. 802.3bt (PoE++): up to 60 or 100W depending on type, for heavier-draw devices like small displays or charging stations.

Maximum distance

PoE is bound by the same 100m limit as any regular Ethernet cable — going beyond that distance needs an intermediate repeater/extender, not just a longer cable.

See the category in the catalog

Networking (8)

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