Power over Ethernet or PoE technology describes a system to pass electrical power safely, along with data, on Ethernet cabling. The IEEE standard for PoE requires Category 5 cable or higher for high power levels, but can operate with category 3 cable for low power levels. Power is supplied in common mode over two or more of the differential pairs of wires found in the Ethernet cables and comes from a power supply within a PoE-enabled networking device such as an Ethernet switch or can be injected into a cable run with a midspan power supply.
What Is PoE and Where to Use PoE Switch?
PoE (power over Ethernet) is defined by IEEE 802.3af standard, which can deliver 15.4w/port at maximum and was originally developed to push power to phones and WAPs (wireless access points). Capable of providing sufficient power for most WAPs, surveillance cameras, and IP phones, PoE is usually applied in places that have no access to AC power supply. Besides this great convenience it brings to network infrastructure, PoE also significantly reduces human labor and the cost involved in managing these devices. PoE switch is well fitted for home network and small business.
What Is PoE+ and Where to Use PoE+ Switch?
PoE+ is defined by IEEE 802.3at standard, serving as a more current standard than PoE. As the name indicated, it is an upgraded version of PoE. Compared to the legacy PoE, this option is more powerful to accommodate increased business requirements. PoE+ enables more power to be carried over a standard Ethernet cable — a maximum wattage of 25.5, thus opening the door to a broader range of devices that can be more integrated into your network. With advancements in client device technology and the amount of power they consume, PoE+ switch is fast becoming the go-to option for PoE deployments.
PoE vs. PoE+: Which Is Better for You?
The main difference between PoE vs PoE+ is the max amount of power provided. PoE is the simple, basic way to power networking devices, which can be used in most home networking setups and small business. While PoE+ is more efficient and useful in complex business networking scenarios.
Whether to choose PoE vs PoE+? It is clear that these systems are sure to make your space more efficient and easier to use. If you already have an existing PoE network and it is adequate for your need, PoE switch is a fairly good choice. But if you’re starting to build new network infrastructure, there’s simply one smart choice: take PoE+ switch on your list. Though POE+ costs more, it will save you a lot of headaches when devices that require higher power levels do come onto your network.
Learn more details: PoE vs. PoE+. The Main Features Comparison