PoE system. Power over Ethernet
PoE are the initials for Power over Ethernet, and it permits the transmission of electricity and data via UTP/STP cable. It is useful in situations where you need to install a network device (such as a WiFi Access Point, IP phone, IP camera, or any other network device that supports this system) for which an electrical outlet is unavailable.
PoE Ethernet permits transmitting electricity and data through a UTP/STP cable for distances up to 100 meters. This allows for electronic devices to be installed outdoors or in difficult-to-access areas where there is a need to be connected to both a source of electrical power and to the interior Ethernet network.
Different standards and protocols exist; that most widespread is the 802.11af, so that PoE meeting this standard can coexist with many other devices that also meet this standard.
What is PoE comprised of?
The Power over Ethernet kit consists of two elements:
1 - The Power Injector (POE-INJ)
This is responsible for supplying the necessary electricity for the entire kit. Its cord is plugged into a wall outlet and the UTP cable (network cable) that receives data from the switch is connected to the Ethernet port. Resulting is a single network cable through which both electricity and data flow to the other end, called a terminal or splitter.
These devices typically operate with an input voltage of 100 - 240V AC and an output (through the network cable) voltage between 15 - 48V DC; they are 70 - 90% efficient, and in some cases afford protection against short circuits, overloads, and spikes. They can withstand interior temperatures between 0 and 60°C, exterior temperatures between -10 and 70°C, and relative humidities from 5% - 90%, although these parameters vary depending on the models.
2 - Terminal unit or splitter (POE-105AF, POE-109AF, POE-112AF)
The terminal unit receives the combined signal from the base unit (electricity and data) unit and again separates the electricity from the data. In the process, it also acts as a transformer to supply the proper voltage, so you must find out what voltage the device uses to connect, because depending on the connecting device, this could be 5V/2A, 7.5V/1.5A, and 12V/1A, or other parameters if it is more specific.
It is advisable when purchasing a PoE Splitter to look at other parameters, such as the minimum and maximum ampere rating or its power in watts, in order to avoid surprises or poor performance.