PoE injectors are based on the IEEE 802.3 standards. Cat 5 or higher Ethernet cables are available and will work with PoE injectors. Please note that with PoE injectors using PoE++ or Hi-PoE standards, Cat 6a cables are recommended.

While regular switches can be made PoE ready, as noted above, there are some distinct advantages to using a PoE switch. Here are a few:

• Flexible: PDs that PoE powers can be located almost anywhere—even in hard-to-reach areas that are not close to an electrical outlet.
• Sound Performance: PoE switches have state-of-the-art features such as high-performance hardware and software, auto-sensing to determine if a PD is PoE-enable or not, and network security.
• Cost-Effective: With a PoE switch, there is no need to purchase extra electrical wiring or install additional outlets. Ethernet cables cost less and can be installed without the need for an expensive electrician.
• Power Conservation: A PoE switch can determine the power supply needs of a PD and delivers only the amount required, eliminating power waste and saving money.
• Future Proof: New PoE devices flood the market daily. The integration of PoE switches into your network infrastructure enables cutting-edge devices and will ultimately enhance your business posture.

PoE (power over Ethernet) is a reliable technology that delivers power and data over a single Ethernet cable for LANs. PoE comes in three strengths:

• PoE: This technology was first defined in 2003 by the IEEE 802.3af standard. When functioning as a PSE, a PoE switch can support a maximum power consumption of up to 15.4W per PoE port and has a voltage range between 44V and 57V.
• PoE+: This technology is an upgrade of the IEEE 802.3at standard and was published in 2009. PoE+ supports devices that have higher power consumption. A PoE+ switch delivers up to 25.5W for a PD with a voltage range from 50V to 57V.
• PoE++: To provide even more power, PoE+ was upgraded to PoE++ (IEEE 802.3bt) in 2018. This technology has two classification types: Type 3 and Type 4. Type 3 uses two or all four twisted pairs in a copper cable. Type 4 delivers power over four twisted pairs in an Ethernet cable. A PoE++ switch delivers up to 60W on each port under Type 3 or up to 100W under Type 4.

Low Watt PoE Devices

• VoIP phones: These devices utilize the internet to provide telephone service instead of the standard pair of direct copper wires.
• Internet Protocol (IP) cameras: These digital video cameras are similar to a webcam; they transmit and receive data over a network or the internet.
• Wireless access point (WAP): This networking device creates a wireless local area network (WLAN) that allows Wi-Fi devices to connect to a wired network, enabling remote positioning.
• Thin Clients: These devices are computers that have no localized hard drive. Instead, they work by being remotely connected to a centralized server.
• Audio devices: Many amplifiers can use a PoE/PoE+ switch to generate the power needed to drive a speaker. A PoE-enabled speaker can cover greater areas and overcome higher ambient noise levels than standard speakers.
• Remote computer terminals: PoE-enabled computers significantly reduce the need for electrical outlets because power is delivered over a single Ethernet cable.

High Watt PoE Devices

• TVs: The latest PoE standard (IEEE 802.3bt-Type 4) can power some energy-efficient SMART TVs.
• Computer monitors: An example of these devices is the panel PC, which is now becoming standard for checking-in to medical facilities, leisure facilities, activity centers, and AirBnB properties.

A sector to look at for the future is the recent PoE applications developing for SMART home automation. This cutting edge PoE technology includes LED lighting, heating and air conditioning, appliances, voice assistants, and even electric car charging stations.