Power over Ethernet (PoE) is a technology that allows network cables to transmit data and power simultaneously using a single Ethernet cable. PoE technology has the ability to send 10/100/1000 Mbps of data, in addition to 15W, 30W,60W, and up to 90W of power to devices over Cat.5e, Cat.6, Cat.6a, Cat.7, and Cat.8 Ethernet cables within a maximum distance of 100 meters. PoE follows the IEEE 802.3af, 802.3at, and 802.3bt standards governed by the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers, and determines networking equipment interoperability requirements.

PoE Benefits

A major benefit of PoE is allowing system integrators and network installers to deploy powered devices in awkward or remote locations that lack electrical circuitry, and in turn saves on costs. PoE is quick and easy to install by simply plugging in network cabling to the proper equipment to function. PoE allows for significant flexibility while also maintaining a safe, reliable connected system, as it is designed to protect network equipment from electrical overload, under-powering, or incorrect installation. It is a safer alternative, and can be backed up by an uninterruptible power supply, or controlled to quickly disable or reset devices. Lastly, PoE has scalability, making it simple to add new equipment to a network.

PSE vs. PD

To create a network of PoE, power is passed through cabling from a power sourcing equipment (PSE) to a powered device (PD). The device that transmits power is the PSE, such as switches, hubs, and injectors; while the device that is powered is a PD, like wireless access points (WAPs), voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) phones, and Internet Protocol (IP) cameras.

Mode A vs. Mode B

Ethernet cables are manufactured with four pairs of wires, but typically only use two of these pairs. PoE can take advantage of the spare pairs of wires, and relays power using three main methods, known as Mode A, Mode B, and 4-Pair. Mode A delivers power on the data pairs of wires, while Mode B uses the alternative wires to carry power. 4-Pair is a new standard that uses all 4 wire pairs to carry data and power.

PoE vs. PoE+

As PoE technology continues to evolve, the amount of power that can be sent over Ethernet cables have increased. PoE (IEEE 802.3af standard) can have a maximum power output of 15.4 watts per port, while PoE+ (IEEE 802.3at standard) is 30 watts per port, and PoE++ (IEEE 802.3bt standard) is 90 watts per port.

 

Standards

PSE Max. output power

PD Max. input power

Cable Category

Cable Length

Power over

PoE: IEEE 802.3af

15.4 W

12.95 W

Cat.3

100 m

2 pairs

PoE+: IEEE 802.3at

30 W

25.5 W

Cat.5e

100 m

2 pairs

PoE ++: IEEE 802.3bt

90 W

71.3 W

Cat.5e/Cat.6

100 m

2 & 4 pairs

 

The rise of the more powerful IEEE 802.3at and 802.3bt PoE standards allows for more power-hungry applications such as smart lighting, and high-speed HD outdoor cameras.

PoE Applications & Use Cases

PoE is a practical technical solution and has many applications, beginning with the most common deployment in wireless access points, and IP surveillance cameras. PoE equipment is also a popular medium among other vertical markets such as government, transportation, higher education and healthcare sectors for deployment in intercoms/PA systems, antennas and radio receivers, network routers and switches, and IP cameras.

As PoE becomes more powerful and capable, more applications have become present, including building automation, building access control systems, audio and video systems, digital security, to retail and shipping point of information systems. The rapid growth of Internet of Things (IoT) showcases PoE ability to power small-scale devices including smart lighting, digital displays, door lock systems, and security cameras.

Lanner PoE Solutions

Lanner has been offering PoE connectivity solutions for decades, integrated in network appliances, intelligent edge appliances to in-vehicle computers. Lanner has also introduced a power management feature designed especially for PoE modules, built upon the POEIG802 architecture and offers both power management flexibilities and P2P software support.


V3S

Fanless In-vehicle Surveillance Computer with Intel® Atom™ x7-E3950 Processor

CPU Intel® Atom™ x7-E3950
Chipset None

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V6S

10-Port PoE Fanless Vehicle NVR Powered by Intel® Core™ i7-7600U CPU

CPU Intel® Core™ i7-7600U (Kaby Lake)
Chipset SoC

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NCA-1516

5G/Wifi6 Ready Desktop Appliance with Intel Atom® C3000 CPU (Codenamed Denverton)

CPU Intel® Atom® C3000
Chipset SoC

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NCS2-POEIG402

Lanner NCS2 NIC Modular with Intel® I350-AM4 Chipset & 4x GbE RJ45 PoE+ Ports

CPU None
Chipset Intel® I350-AM4

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NCS2-POEIG802

Lanner NCS2 NIC Modular with Intel® I350-AM4 Chipset & 8x GbE RJ45 PoE+ Ports

CPU None
Chipset Intel® I350-AM4

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