The large amount of devices used by industrial applications such as transportation, public facility and manufacturing automation will give rise to the cables in a condition of disorder. With industrial devices becoming more power-hungry, the PoE technology wins a good reputation among users with the capability to provide higher power and reduce the number of cables required. In this article we will discuss what is PoE switch and how to use PoE switch.

What Is A PoE Switch?

PoE switch or power over Ethernet switch is a network switch which applies Power over Ethernet technology. With a PoE network switch, the network connectivity and the power to run the PD (powered device) can both be efficiently realized over the Ethernet cable. PoE network switch can be classified into many types, such as 8/12/24/48 port PoE switch, or unmanaged and managed PoE switch.

Why You Need the PoE Switch?
Based on the working mode of PoE vs. non-PoE switch, the PoE switch brings benefits over the following aspects:
Flexibility: Getting rid of the restrictions of non-PoE switches needing additional PSEs and extension cables, the PoE switches gain great flexibility for users’ network cablings. It enables PDs like IP surveillance cameras to be installed based on where it needs to go. Besides, a combination of PoE switch and wireless technology can even make the cable-free environment be possible.
Simplicity: Without the need to consider additional PSEs and installation locations like a non-PoE switch, the PoE switch simplifies the whole network deployment. In addition, good PoE switches also enable simple network management protocol (SNMP), which provides a simpler way to supervise and manage the switch.
Cost-Efficient: With PoE network switch, there is no need for users to purchase and install additional electrical wires and outlets, which creates significant savings on installation and maintenance costs and time