Power over Ethernet (PoE) technology has revolutionized the way network devices are powered and connected, simplifying installations and reducing costs. PoE, PoE+, and PoE++ are different standards within this technology, each with its own capabilities and applications. In this comprehensive article, we’ll explore these three standards, their differences, and where they are best utilized.
What is Power over Ethernet (PoE)?
Power over Ethernet (PoE) is a technology that allows Ethernet cables to carry electrical power, eliminating the need for separate power supplies for network devices such as IP cameras, wireless access points, and VoIP phones. This technology simplifies the installation process and provides greater flexibility in device placement.
PoE Standards: PoE, PoE+, and PoE++
The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) has defined several standards for PoE technology:
- PoE (IEEE 802.3af)
- Introduced: 2003
- Power Output: Up to 15.4 watts per port
- Voltage Range: 44-57 volts
- Maximum Current: 350 mA
- Applications: Suitable for devices with low power requirements, such as VoIP phones, basic IP cameras, and simple wireless access points.
- PoE+ (IEEE 802.3at)
- Introduced: 2009
- Power Output: Up to 30 watts per port
- Voltage Range: 50-57 volts
- Maximum Current: 600 mA
- Applications: Designed for devices with moderate power needs, including more advanced IP cameras with PTZ capabilities, dual-band wireless access points, and video phones.
- PoE++ (IEEE 802.3bt)
- Introduced: 2018
- Power Output: Up to 60 watts per port (Type 3), up to 100 watts per port (Type 4)
- Voltage Range: 50-57 volts
- Maximum Current: 960 mA (Type 3), 1,920 mA (Type 4)
- Applications: Suitable for high-power devices such as high-end PTZ cameras, LED lighting, digital signage, and large wireless access points. PoE++ is also known as 4PPoE (Four-Pair PoE) because it uses all four pairs of wires in the Ethernet cable to deliver power.
Key Differences Between PoE, PoE+, and PoE++
Power Output
- PoE: Provides up to 15.4 watts per port.
- PoE+: Provides up to 30 watts per port, nearly double the power of PoE.
- PoE++: Provides up to 60 watts (Type 3) and 100 watts (Type 4) per port, significantly higher than PoE and PoE+.
Voltage and Current
- PoE: Operates within a voltage range of 44-57 volts and a maximum current of 350 mA.
- PoE+: Operates within a voltage range of 50-57 volts and a maximum current of 600 mA.
- PoE++: Operates within a voltage range of 50-57 volts, with Type 3 supporting a maximum current of 960 mA and Type 4 supporting up to 1,920 mA.
Applications
- PoE: Ideal for low-power devices like VoIP phones and basic IP cameras.
- PoE+: Suitable for moderate power devices such as advanced IP cameras and dual-band access points.
- PoE++: Necessary for high-power devices like high-end PTZ cameras, LED lighting, and digital signage.
Comparison Table
Feature | PoE (IEEE 802.3af) | PoE+ (IEEE 802.3at) | PoE++ (IEEE 802.3bt Type 3) | PoE++ (IEEE 802.3bt Type 4) |
---|---|---|---|---|
Power Output | Up to 15.4 watts | Up to 30 watts | Up to 60 watts | Up to 100 watts |
Voltage Range | 44-57 volts | 50-57 volts | 50-57 volts | 50-57 volts |
Max Current | 350 mA | 600 mA | 960 mA | 1,920 mA |
Applications | VoIP phones, basic IP cameras, wireless access points | Advanced IP cameras (PTZ), dual-band wireless access points, video phones | High-end PTZ cameras, LED lighting, digital signage | High-power devices, large wireless access points, complex lighting systems |
Standard Year | 2003 | 2009 | 2018 | 2018 |
Choosing the Right PoE Standard for Your Needs
PoE (IEEE 802.3af)
- Best For: Low-power devices that do not require more than 15.4 watts. Ideal for standard VoIP phones, basic IP cameras, and simple wireless access points.
PoE+ (IEEE 802.3at)
- Best For: Devices with moderate power requirements. Suitable for more advanced IP cameras, especially those with PTZ functionality, as well as dual-band wireless access points and video phones.
PoE++ (IEEE 802.3bt)
- Best For: High-power devices that require up to 100 watts of power. This includes high-end PTZ cameras, large wireless access points, digital signage, LED lighting, and other devices that need substantial power.
Benefits of Using PoE Technology
- Simplified Installation: PoE eliminates the need for separate power supplies and electrical wiring, making installations quicker and easier.
- Flexibility: Devices can be placed anywhere without worrying about power outlet locations.
- Cost Savings: Reduces the cost of installing electrical infrastructure and the associated labor costs.
- Safety: PoE is inherently safe, with low voltage levels reducing the risk of electrical hazards.
- Scalability: Easily scale your network by adding new devices without significant changes to the existing infrastructure.
Understanding the differences between PoE, PoE+, and PoE++ switches is essential for selecting the right technology for your network needs. Whether you are powering basic devices like VoIP phones or more demanding equipment like high-end PTZ cameras, choosing the appropriate PoE standard ensures efficient and reliable network performance.
For comprehensive electrical and network solutions, including expert advice on PoE technologies, contact Cablify. Our team is ready to assist you in designing and maintaining a robust network infrastructure tailored to your specific requirements.