What is a PoE switch?
A PoE switch is a standard Fast Ethernet or Gigabit network switch that includes Power over Ethernet. Power over Ethernet switches not only allow network clients to communicate but also power-powered devices. This important PoE feature can help businesses save money on the cost of installing electrical and network cabling. There are 8, 12, and 24-port PoE switches, and 48-port PoE switches on the market that is commonly found. Unmanaged and managed PoE switches can be used at the network control level. PoE switches can be used in a variety of settings, from the home to the office, and from indoors to outdoors. It can also send power and data to multiple devices at the same time.
Why Choose a PoE Switch?
When comparing PoE switches to non-PoE switches, it's clear why a PoE switch is required. A non-PoE switch does not support POE, only provides power to end users via Ethernet, and can only send data to network devices. Users must install a midspan power sourcing equipment (PSE), such as a PoE injector, between the switch and the power sourcing equipment to obtain PoE. When connected to a cable other than a PoE switch, injectors or other midspan PSEs can receive data signals while adding power and then pass the data and power to the PD (powered device). During this process, a power cord is also required. To send data and provide power, a PoE switch requires only a switch power cable and a network cable connected to the PD.
How Does the POE Switch Work?
In IP cameras, VoIP phones, and wireless access points, PoE switches are always used (WAP). The power supply operation process is shown below when the PoE switch is deployed in the network. The POE device initially outputs a low voltage on the port until it detects that the cable terminal is connected to an IEEE802.3af-compliant powered device. After detecting the power receiving device (PD), the POE device may classify it and access the power loss required by the PD device.
Power supply begins: The PSE device begins supplying power from the low voltage to the PD device for a defined period (usually less than 15s) and continues to do so until 48V DC power is supplied.
Power supply: Consistent and dependable 48V DC power that can support PD devices with a maximum power consumption of 15.4W.
Power off: If the PD device loses network connectivity, the PSE will turn off the PD device immediately (often within 300 to 400 ms) and repeat the detection procedure to determine whether the cable terminal is connected to the PD device.
A comprehensive POE system includes power supply equipment (PSE, Power Sourcing Equipment) and power supply equipment (PD, Power Device). The POE Power over Ethernet process is administered by the PSE device, which also powers Ethernet client devices. The POE system's client and the PSE load that receives power is the PD device.
The Most Effective PoE Switch Type
PoE switches are classified into three types:
- Unmanaged
- Smart
- Managed
Unmanaged PoE switches
They are ideal for small business offices or home networks. They cannot change the configuration, so you don't have to worry about enabling or disabling interfaces.
Smart PoE switches
They have full security features and are also used in smaller networks. These switches have limited functionality. They provide QoS and VLANs and are best suited for labs and small workgroups.
Managed PoE switches
In data centers and large networks, managed PoE is used. It is complex and includes comprehensive management and security features. As a result, network security, control, and management are extremely high. These are the priciest PoE switches.
The Advantages of PoE Switches
Non-POE switches and PoE switches differ in that POE switches have advantages that non-POE switches do not. Unlike non-PoE switches, which require additional PSEs and extension cables, PoE switches offer users greater network cabling flexibility and simplify network deployment. You don't need any extra power cords, which helps you save money on infrastructure. PoE switches make the best use of power resources because they detect power consumption and supply only what is needed, reducing power waste. Good PoE switches also support the Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP), which allows for easier supervision and management of the switch.
- Lower Infrastructure Costs - A single cable can carry both data and power. PoE solutions also necessitate the use of fewer power adapters.
- Increased Deployment Flexibility - The absence of fixed power outlets allows for more placement options and deployment in complex environments.
- Power allocation to all devices can be managed by a centralized switch.
- Installation is simplified because existing network infrastructures can be used for rapid deployment without the need for an electrician.
- VoIP phones, access points, and IP cameras are all common uses for PoE switches. See the products offered by a typical PoE switch application.