PoE cameras have increased in popularity in recent years. You might have come across the term “PoE” when you’ve been browsing for security cameras or perhaps other devices. So, what is PoE and should you get PoE security cameras? The newer technology definitely has some advantages. In this article we explain what PoE is and what the benefits and disadvantages are of using PoE surveillance cameras.
What is an Ethernet cable?
Before I explain PoE, you need to know what an Ethernet cable is. Most people do, and they use Ethernet cables all the time, but may not realise what it’s called.
An Ethernet cable is a type of network cable that is used to connect devices within a network (a Local Area Network, called a LAN). Any device that uses a wire to connect to your network at home or at the office, uses an Ethernet cable. You will find these cables commonly used to connect computers, printers, and other devices within a home or office. They allow devices to communicate with each other. And when connected to a router that is hooked up to a Cable modem, these Ethernet cables are the way your device is connecting to and communicating with the internet.
WiFi means that devices don’t need Ethernet cables- they communicate on the network and access the internet through radio signals. But usually, Ethernet cables are a more reliable way for devices to communicate on a network. That’s why businesses prefer hard-wired security systems because they are typically the most reliable setups.
What is PoE?
PoE stands for Power over Ethernet, and it refers to a system that can transmit electrical power along with data over standard Ethernet cabling. So that same cable you would use with your device to connect and communicate on your network, would also be sued to power the device. This technology is particularly useful for powering devices like IP cameras that are located in hard-to-reach places, or for eliminating the need for a separate power cable altogether.
When Was PoE Invented?
The concept of PoE was first patented in 1983, but it wasn’t until 2003 that the IEEE 802.3af standard was created to allow for safe delivery of up to 15.4 watts of power over Ethernet cabling. In 2009, an updated standard- IEEE 802.3at- was released which increased the maximum power output to 30 watts. In 2018, the newest PoE standard- IEEE 802.3bt- was approved, and it increases the maximum power output to 90 watts- pretty impressive. This latest standard is sometimes referred to as PoE++, 4-pair PoE, or Type 3 PoE.
The first PoE security camera was produced in 2006 by Axis Communications.
What Are The Benefits of Using PoE for Surveillance Cameras?
There are three major reasons to consider installing PoE IP security cameras.
- Reduced Installation Costs: Since PoE delivers both power and data over a single Ethernet cable, it can greatly simplify the installation process and reduce associated costs.
- Increased Flexibility: PoE-powered cameras can be located virtually anywhere as long as there is an Ethernet connection nearby. This can provide greater flexibility when it comes to camera placement and layout.
- Hard-wired surveillance cameras are usually more reliable than wireless cameras. The video quality and speed can be better too. And with PoE security cameras, a hard-wired camera system becomes easier to install.
What Components are Necessary for a PoE Camera System?
In order to take advantage of Power over Ethernet technology, you’ll need three key components:
1. PoE Injector: This device is used to inject power into an Ethernet cable. It typically connects to a power source, usually your regular power outlet, and has one data input port and two data output ports (one for the camera and one for the network). A PoE switch will allow multiple Poe cameras to be connected to one power source and communicate with the network.
2. Ethernet Cable: A standard Ethernet cable is used to connect the PoE injector to the camera and network.
3. PoE Camera: The final piece of the puzzle is a PoE-compatible IP security camera, which can receive power and data over a single Ethernet cable.
If you’re looking to install a Power over Ethernet security camera system, make sure you have all of these components before getting started.
Where can I get PoE cameras?
A number of different companies produce PoE IP security cameras, including Axis Communications, Reolink, Hikvision, Cisco, D-Link, and Ubiquiti. One of my favourite security camera brands, Lorex, offers several PoE camera models.
What are some of the disadvantages of using POE cameras?
There are a few potential disadvantages to using POE cameras.
- You will need to purchase a compatible power supply for your camera.
- Your existing cameras probably don’t support PoE, so check on that. And if not, and you still want to use PoE technology, you’ll need to invest in PoE cameras.
- Finally, POE cameras are typically more expensive than traditional cameras.
The Final Score – PoE Security Camera Systems
PoE security camera systems have become popular more recently as PoE technology has grown. PoE can provide reliable hard-wire service but also reduces the number of cables that need to be run to a camera. That can make it more flexible and easier to install in hard-to-reach places. PoE security camera systems are a great, reliable surveillance option. However, the cameras can be more expensive, and you’ll need a PoE injector to provide the power to your cameras.