PoE extender is one of the most cost-effective and reliable methods of providing power and network to a IP device (IP camera) at an extended distance. PoE extender is a kind of device which is used to extend the distance of cable. PoE (power over Ethernet), is a technology that can transport data and power over single Ethernet cable. When using network extenders, something you should keep in mind. In this article, we will provide some tips for you.
1. IEEE 802.3 standard (output power)
While buying PoE products, you may find IEEE802.3 standard always stand up. The IEEE 802.3 specifics how the power should transported in Ethernet cable and what is the maximum power budget. IEEE 802.3 PoE is considered as safe power system. That is because not only the power voltage has been designed for Ethernet cable, but also PD signature is introduced in the standard to guarantee the power PD signature is being sent to the device.
Before using extenders, you should know your IP devices with how much power consumption. As the extenders comply with different standards, their output power will be different. Figuring out this point is important to choose a suitable PoE extender.
Here we take three most common types of PoE extender as example.
- IEEE802.3af PoE extender
IEEE802.3af standard does not exceed 15.4W at maximum. Due to the loss of transmission wires, it can supply power to devices with a maximum power consumption of less than 12.95W. It is sufficient for general IP cameras, but for high-power front-end equipment such as PTZ camera, the output power is not up to standard.
- IEEE802.3at PoE extender
A PoE extender that complies with the IEEE802.3at standard can supply power to devices with a maximum power consumption of less than 25.5W. The PoE extender is ideal for applications include parking systems, video surveillance, tank monitoring and connecting power sub meters.
- IEEE802.3bt PoE extender
Fastcabling 5540-60 IEEE802.3bt PoE extender allow a maximum of 95W PoE power input and provide up to 60W output power for multiple PoE devices with max 51W remained power. Well suit for long distance power hungry IP device deployment without concern on insufficient power supply.
Therefore, different IP devices may need different power and the suitable cable should be picked to match the requirements. What’s more, number of required interfaces, and rate (10/100/1000M) also should be considered. The main goal of a transmission system is to maintain transmission bandwidth and avoid data and power losses.
2. Ethernet cable using
Before you connect the PoE extender to your IP devices, choosing qualified ethernet cable is of great significance, especially if connect to an IP camera. Because network monitoring project is different from ordinary network integrated wiring. It is a large volume of data transmission with high power, which requires 24/7 uninterrupted work. The use of qualified PoE devices and cables is the guarantee of the stability of the whole system. Therefore, you are supposed to consider the ethernet cable from transmission speed, material, temperature range, installation, and price.
Ethernet Cable are being used to linked the different network devices. Cat5e and Cat6 cable are two types of Ethernet cable for common use. You are supposed to choose one with pure copper cable to avoid voltage drop problem. Cat 5e/Cat 6 has high speed, but it doesn’t guarantee the material of the cable. The pure copper can decrease the power loss on the cable, otherwise power loss will turn to new issues if low quality cable is used. It will be converted to heat inline and create voltage drop at the other end of the cable. If the voltage drop down lower than the remote devices require, the whole system will stop working. For example, the WiFi router requires DC 9V, but the remain voltage is only 7V remained after 100 meters transmission, the power will not be able to supply the WiFi router. If the cable are sold at a too low price, it may need to confirm the quality repeatedly.
3. Outdoor environment protection
Usually the cable can be hanged in the air or buried under the ground. If you choose to hang up the cable, it is better to add plastic tube to protect the cable. The PoE extender is waterproof and requires no extra protection, but the cable may need the protection from harsh environments outdoors. Adding the tube also can ease the electricity discharge. When power and data are being transported in long distance, it becomes more easier to absorb the ESD in the air which can be sent to the devices and damage them eventually. If cable line is buried under the ground, the PoE network extender needs to be placed in some protective closures in case of moisture in the soil. Placing the extender in a closure is good for future maintaining.
4. What will happen while doing the wrong connection?
If the IP camera cannot be powered, first thing is to check the PoE extender. The extender has two different ports, out and in. In port should be linked to PoE switch or injector to receive power and data and out port is to power IP camera. The IP camera could not work if the extender’s port is misconnected. The next thing is to make sure the twisted pair has the right sequence. Move the IP camera to the connection before the first extender. This can help you rule out the issue even you don’t have network tester. The connector always needs to be paid attention. As more connectors are created, the possible failed points increase as well. The final thing is to ensure the pure copper cable is employed in the system. As we mentioned above, low quality cable can create power loss and voltage drop. If the remained voltage is lower than the camera required, the PoE power system will never turn on.
Hope the above tips can help you have a good usage experience. Having a qualified and suitable PoE extender is the key to enhance your satisfaction. Fastcabling aims at providing suitable and cost-effective PoE extenders of high quality for users with different demands.