PoE+ devices

  Choosing between PoE (Power over Ethernet) and PoE+ for your network depends on several factors related to your devices' power requirements and your network's overall design. Here's a breakdown to help you decide:   1. Power Requirements of Devices PoE (IEEE 802.3af) provides up to 15.4W of power per port, with about 12.95W available after accounting for power loss over the cable. This is sufficient for low-power devices such as: --- IP cameras (standard) --- VoIP phones --- Wireless access points (WAPs with basic features) PoE+ (IEEE 802.3at) delivers up to 30W of power per port, with about 25.5W available to the device. PoE+ is necessary for higher-power devices like: --- Pan-Tilt-Zoom (PTZ) cameras --- Wireless access points with more advanced features (e.g., multi-radio) --- Video phones or other devices with larger power demands Recommendation: Check the power needs of your devices. If most of your devices need more than 15W, PoE+ is the better choice.     2. Network Size and Scalability PoE may be sufficient for smaller networks with limited power-hungry devices. PoE+ is better suited for larger, more complex setups or when you anticipate adding devices that require more power. Recommendation: If you expect your network to grow or include more high-power devices in the future, opting for PoE+ from the start ensures scalability.     3. Cable Distance Both PoE and PoE+ can deliver power over up to 100 meters (328 feet) of standard Cat5e or Cat6 Ethernet cable. However, PoE+ may be more sensitive to distance-related power losses, so higher-quality cables (e.g., Cat6 or Cat6a) are often recommended for longer runs or higher power consumption.     4. Cost PoE switches and injectors are typically less expensive than PoE+ equivalents. However, if you need to add power injectors or external power solutions for devices that need more power, upgrading to PoE+ switches from the start might save you time and money in the long run.     5. Future-Proofing PoE+ is more versatile because it supports both PoE and PoE+ devices, allowing for flexibility in network design. If you're setting up a network with long-term usage in mind, PoE+ may be the better investment, especially with the increasing power demands of modern devices.     Conclusion: --- For low-power devices like basic IP cameras, VoIP phones, or small access points, PoE should be enough. --- For power-hungry devices like PTZ cameras, advanced access points, or if you're planning for future expansion, PoE+ is the better choice.   Consider your network’s current and future needs before making a decision.    

  The best Power over Ethernet (PoE) solution for small businesses depends on the specific needs of the network, such as the number of devices, the type of devices (IP cameras, VoIP phones, wireless access points), and power requirements. Here are some key factors and recommended options to consider when choosing a PoE solution for small businesses:   1. Number of Ports Small Network (5–10 devices): A 8-port or 12-port PoE switch is typically sufficient. These switches offer enough connectivity for basic setups like IP cameras, VoIP phones, and a few wireless access points. Medium-Sized Network (10–30 devices): A 24-port PoE switch offers more scalability and supports more devices in an expanding network.     2. PoE Standards --- PoE (802.3af): Provides up to 15.4W of power per port. Suitable for low-power devices like VoIP phones and simple IP cameras. --- PoE+ (802.3at): Provides up to 30W per port. Ideal for higher-power devices such as advanced IP cameras, wireless access points, and video conferencing systems. --- PoE++ (802.3bt): Provides up to 60W or 100W per port. This is more suitable for power-hungry devices, like PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) cameras, LED lighting, or digital displays. For most small businesses, PoE+ (802.3at) is sufficient for supporting typical devices like IP cameras and Wi-Fi access points.     3. Managed vs. Unmanaged Switches Managed PoE Switch: Provides more control and features such as VLANs, traffic prioritization (QoS), remote monitoring, and power management. It is ideal for small businesses that need control over their network and plan for future expansion. Unmanaged PoE Switch: A simpler plug-and-play solution, without the need for advanced configurations. Best for small networks with basic needs. Recommendation: For flexibility and long-term growth, a managed switch is a better choice for small businesses, especially if you plan to add more devices over time.     4. Power Budget --- Ensure that the switch has enough total power budget to support all your PoE devices. For example, if you are using PoE+ devices, and each requires 25W, and you have 10 devices, the switch should have a power budget of at least 250W to avoid overloads.     5. Brand Reliability and Support Ubiquiti UniFi: Offers affordable and scalable managed PoE switches that integrate well with UniFi devices such as access points and cameras. Great for small businesses that want an all-in-one ecosystem. Cisco Small Business Series: Known for robust security features, Cisco’s small business switches are reliable and come with excellent support and warranty. TP-Link Omada: A cost-effective solution with both managed and unmanaged PoE switches, ideal for small businesses on a budget. Netgear: Offers a wide range of switches, including both managed and unmanaged PoE models, with strong reliability and easy-to-use interfaces.     6. Scalability --- If you expect your business to grow, choose a switch that can accommodate additional devices or offers stacking capabilities for adding more switches in the future.     Suggested PoE Switches for Small Businesses: 1.Ubiquiti UniFi Switch US-8-150W --- 8 PoE+ ports, 150W power budget, managed via the UniFi Controller, and suitable for IP cameras, VoIP phones, and wireless access points. 2.Cisco SG350-10P 10-Port PoE Switch --- 10 ports, 62W power budget, easy-to-manage interface, with VLAN and QoS features. A good choice for small business security needs. 3.TP-Link TL-SG1016PE 16-Port PoE Switch --- 16 ports, PoE+ with a 110W power budget, suitable for growing businesses that need more ports at a reasonable cost. 4.Netgear GS728TPv2 28-Port Smart PoE Switch --- 28 ports with a 190W power budget, offering excellent management features, ideal for medium-sized networks or businesses expecting growth.     Conclusion For most small businesses, a managed PoE switch with PoE+ capabilities offers the best combination of flexibility, power, and management features. If your business is planning to grow, choosing a switch with a slightly larger capacity or modular expansion options will ensure that you are prepared for future needs.