Before understanding PoE switches, we must first understand what PoE is.
PoE is a power supply over Ethernet technology. It is a method of remotely supplying power to connected network devices (such as Wireless LAN AP, IP Phone, Bluetooth AP, IP Camera, etc.) on a standard Ethernet data cable, eliminating The problem of installing a separate power supply device on an IP network terminal device makes it unnecessary to deploy a separate power supply system for the device at the use site, which can greatly reduce the wiring and management costs of deploying terminal devices and promote the development of related fields.
The PoE switch is based on the traditional Ethernet switch, with the addition of PoE function inside, so that the switch not only has the function of data exchange, but also can transmit power through the network cable at the same time. This is the network power supply switch. It can be distinguished from ordinary switches in appearance. PoE switches have the word “PoE” on the front of the panel, indicating that they have PoE functions, while ordinary switches do not.
Realizing network power supply through PoE switches has many advantages.
1.Simple deployment. There is no need to dig holes, pull cables, or install power sockets to use PoE. You only need one RJ45 port to provide different power supply methods for devices in different areas through the existing Ethernet.
2.More flexible. With PoE, the installation location of network cameras and wireless access points is no longer restricted. No matter how far away the AC power socket is, they can be deployed wherever needed, which also makes network monitoring more perfect.
3.More secure. Compared with AC power supply, PoE power supply belongs to the category of weak current, and there is no security risk of strong current. Moreover, the power is supplied through the network cable. Only when the equipment that needs power supply is connected, the Ethernet cable will have voltage, eliminating the risk of leakage on the line.
4.Lower cost. The cost mentioned here not only refers to money, but also includes time cost. Traditional power lines require labor costs and require a certain amount of time to complete, which is a huge expense. It only uses PoE switch for power supply, no manual work or a lot of time, basically plug and play, very simple, convenient and fast.
5.Convenient management. Traditional monitoring system management and maintenance are very complicated and cumbersome. Using PoE power supply can remotely control, reconfigure or reset network cameras and wireless access points.
PoE switches provide network cameras with improvements in reliability, cost reduction, and ease of deployment. With the vigorous development of network surveillance, more and more network cameras can be powered by PoE.