What is the PoE function?

What exactly is PoE and How do we use it?

PoE is an abbreviation for Power over Ethernet, which means that network equipment, such as an IP camera, can be powered directly by an Ethernet cable, also known as an RJ45 cable or network cable.

What are the benefits of this technology, and how should it be used?

Difference between a PoE and non-PoE installation

 

In this diagram, we can see that the PoE camera is only connected by a single RJ45 cable. Whether it's a PoE injector, a PoE switch, or a PoE NVR, the installation diagram is the same.

 

Consumer boxes (Livebox, Freebox, Bbox, SFR box, etc.) do not support PoE.

Benefits of installing PoE?

The primary benefit of PoE technology is that it significantly simplifies the installation of a video surveillance solution. An IP camera must be powered by electricity in order to function. When installing an IP camera, you must connect it to a network cable (RJ45) as well as a power supply.

 

There is no need for a power supply in a PoE installation because there is only one RJ45 cable to pull.

 

Power supplies are not included with PoE cameras. You will need one of the following pieces of equipment to make them work:

 

A camera power supply (12 volts).

A PoE injector and a PoE switch

A PoE NVR (video recorder)

Installation of one or more cameras without a network video recorder (NVR). If you want to use the PoE function, you will need to purchase a PoE injector or a PoE switch.

Installation of a complete video surveillance solution, which includes one or more IP camera(s) and an NVR. If you want to take advantage of the PoE functions, you must select a PoE NVR.

PTZ camera special case (rotating motorized):

 

PTZ cameras are also PoE capable. However, because they consume far more energy than a standard camera, they cannot be powered by a standard PoE injector or an NVR's PoE. PoE+, which is more powerful than PoE, is used for these cameras. PoE+ injectors and PoE injectors are both available in the market.

IEEE 802.3af for standard PoE - voltage 48V maximum power 12.9W

IEEE 802.3at for PoE+ - voltage of 48V maximum power between 24W and 30W