Want to know what voltage is POE? In this comprehensive review of POE (Power over Ethernet), you can obtain the right answer. Keep reading to have a better understanding of POE.
What is POE
Before getting to know the answer to “What voltage is POE”, let’s have a look at the definition of POE if you are unfamiliar with it. Power over Ethernet, or PoE, refers to the capability of transferring power to a device over an Ethernet wire. This industry standard makes use of the Ethernet cable's dual function of carrying data and power. This essentially means that you can use a single wire to power and connect your gadget to your network simultaneously.
This feature is well-liked by users, installers, and integrators alike because it eliminates the need for a separate power cord and/or power source for each device, making installation simple. It has completely changed how the Internet of Things is powered and connected.
Consider the scenario when you wish to build a gateway at the network's edge. It is not necessary to engage an electrician to install an outlet and connect it to the Ethernet. Your powered device (PD) and the power source (PSE) are connected by a solitary Ethernet cable.
What Voltage is POE
Network cables like Cat 5e and Cat 6 include eight wires arranged in four twisted pairs. Two of these pairs, referred to as the data pairs in 10 and 100BASE-T Ethernet, are used for data transmission. Gigabit Ethernet uses all four pairs; the other two are referred to as the spare pairs because they are not in use. Two conductors are necessary to transmit power along a cable because electrical currents circulate in a loop. In order to carry electrical current, POE can use either the two data pairs or the two spare pairs, treating each pair as a separate conductor.
So what voltage is POE? A voltage of between 44 and 57 volts DC, usually 48 volts, is used to pump power over Ethernet onto the wire. This relatively high voltage, while still being low enough to be considered safe, enables effective power transfer along the cable.
Although this voltage is safe for people, it can nevertheless harm equipment that is not POE-compatible. In order to enable power to a connected IP camera or other equipment (known as a PD, for powered device), a POE switch or midspan (also known as a PSE, for power sourcing equipment) must first carry out a signature detection process. A 25kOhm resistance used in signature detection, which employs a lower voltage, is a distinguishing feature of IEEE-compatible PDs. The PSE recognizes when this signature has been discovered and when greater voltages can be safely used.
Other Prominent Benefits of POE
To know the answer to “What voltage is POE” is necessary to utilize it safely. Apart from that, learning more benefits of it is also important to better apply it. Imagine how many PoE-enabled devices may be used on your network without the need for additional power connections once you understand what Power over Ethernet is. Other benefits of using Power over Ethernet include:
Flexibility
Devices like monitors, security cameras, and wireless access points can be placed in perfect positions and moved with ease because they are not tied to electrical plugs.
Reliability
Instead of coming from a number of dispersed wall adapters, PoE power comes from a single, globally compatible source. An uninterruptible power supply (UPS) can be used as a backup, enabling it to continue working even in the event of a power outage. PoE additionally enables simple device disabling or resetting from a centralized controller.
Safety
Network equipment is intelligently protected from overload, underpowering, and improper installation through power delivery using PoE. Additionally, working with or near potentially harmful high-voltage power sources is no longer unsafe.
Time and money saved
PoE can speed up and lower the cost of installing electrical power connections. Installing network wires doesn't require a licensed electrician. Spend less money by using fewer power outlets for each installed gadget. By enabling centralized control over lighting, window coverings, and heating and cooling, it also lowers energy expenses.
Scalability
The installation and deployment of network connections are made simple and efficient by the presence of power on the network.
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