What Is the Difference Between Standard PoE and High-Power PoE?
Power over Ethernet (PoE) technology has revolutionized network setups by simplifying the deployment of powered devices. With advancements in technology, different PoE standards have emerged, each catering to varying power needs. In this article, we will explore the differences between Standard PoE and High-Power PoE (Hi-PoE), focusing on their power delivery, voltage and current specifications, cable usage, supported devices, and cabling requirements.
Power Delivery
Standard PoE
- IEEE 802.3af: Also known as Standard PoE, this protocol delivers up to 15.4 watts of power per port. It is designed to support devices that have relatively low power requirements.
- IEEE 802.3at: Commonly referred to as PoE+, it provides up to 30 watts per port, catering to devices that demand more power compared to Standard PoE.
High-Power PoE (Hi-PoE)
- IEEE 802.3bt Type 3: Known as High-Power PoE, it delivers up to 60 watts per port. This type is suitable for applications requiring more power but does not reach the highest power thresholds.
- IEEE 802.3bt Type 4: This type of Hi-PoE extends the capability further, providing between 90 to 100 watts per port. It supports the most demanding power requirements.
The increased power delivery in Hi-PoE enables the support of more sophisticated and power-hungry devices compared to Standard PoE.
Voltage and Current
Standard PoE
- Voltage: Standard PoE operates with 44-57 volts DC.
- Current: It provides up to 350 mA of current, suitable for devices with lower power needs.
PoE+
- Voltage: PoE+ operates at 50-57 volts DC.
- Current: It supports up to 600 mA of current, accommodating devices that need more power than those supported by Standard PoE.
Hi-PoE
- Voltage: High-Power PoE uses 52 volts DC.
- Current: Hi-PoE supports higher currents necessary to power more demanding equipment.
The variations in voltage and current specifications among these standards ensure that devices with varying power requirements can be supported effectively.
Cable Usage
Standard PoE and PoE+
- Cable Pairs: Standard PoE and PoE+ utilize only 2 of the 4 twisted pairs in an Ethernet cable to deliver power. This approach is adequate for devices that require lower power levels.
Hi-PoE
- Cable Pairs: High-Power PoE (802.3bt) uses all 4 twisted pairs in the Ethernet cable. This method allows for the delivery of higher power levels required by more advanced devices.
The utilization of all four pairs of cables in Hi-PoE is crucial for delivering higher power efficiently and effectively.
Supported Devices
Standard PoE
- IP Phones: Ideal for powering VoIP phones.
- Basic Cameras: Suitable for standard surveillance cameras.
- Access Points: Effective for powering basic wireless access points.
PoE+
- Advanced Wireless Access Points: Supports higher performance access points with additional power needs.
- HD IP Cameras: Capable of powering high-definition cameras with enhanced features.
Hi-PoE
- LED Lighting: Can power high-intensity LED lighting systems.
- Large Displays: Supports large digital displays and interactive screens.
- Robotic Arms: Enables the operation of complex robotic arms requiring substantial power.
Hi-PoE’s capability to power more advanced and high-wattage equipment makes it suitable for modern smart building and IoT applications.
Cabling Requirements
Standard PoE and PoE+
- Cable Type: Can use Cat5e or better Ethernet cables. These cables are sufficient for the power and data transmission needs of Standard PoE and PoE+ devices.
Hi-PoE
- Cable Type: Requires Cat6a or better Ethernet cables. The enhanced cable specifications support the higher power delivery and data transmission rates needed for Hi-PoE applications.
The use of higher category cables for Hi-PoE ensures reliable performance and efficiency in delivering high power.
Conclusion
In summary, while Standard PoE and PoE+ are adequate for many standard network devices, High-Power PoE (Hi-PoE) offers significant advantages for powering high-wattage and advanced equipment. With its capability to deliver up to 100 watts per port, Hi-PoE is ideal for modern applications requiring substantial power, such as smart building systems and sophisticated IoT devices. Understanding the differences between these PoE standards is essential for selecting the right solution to meet specific power and performance needs.