Power over Ethernet (PoE) is a system that provides a constant supply of DC power to a computer network using the same Ethernet cables used for connectivity. Devices such as network cameras and IP telephones can hence be powered without the need for extra wiring. PoE is easy to maintain and requires little or no human intervention. Another name for PoE is Power over LAN (PoL).

In order for Power over Ethernet to work effectively, the electrical current must flow through the data cable at the main supply entrance and out through the device end to avoid any interference between data and power supply. In case the device at the end of the cable is not PoE synced, then another hardware called a picker needs to be put in place.

Features of PoE

The main reason behind the invention of Power over Ethernet system was to run various Wireless Access Point (WAP) devices, embedded systems, surveillance cameras and IP telephone sets.

Since the power supply is centralized, Power over Ethernet reduces the likelihood of downtime due to power shortages and surges. It ensures that there is a continuous and uniform flow of current to all systems. Power over Ethernet is usually linked to a good battery or UPS, which is common in homes and large offices.

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