PoE vs PoE+ vs PoE++ Switch: Powering the Future of Network Connectivity

Introduction

Power over Ethernet (PoE) technology has transformed network infrastructure by allowing data and electrical power to be transmitted over a single Ethernet cable. This simplification makes it easier to install and manage devices like IP phones, wireless access points, and security cameras. The IEEE has developed several PoE standards to meet the growing demand for powerful and efficient solutions, including PoE (802.3af), PoE+ (802.3at), and PoE++ (802.3bt). Understanding these standards helps network engineers and IT professionals design and implement effective PoE-based networks. This article will explore each PoE standard's capabilities, limitations, and use cases, guiding you in selecting the right PoE switch for your network.

Understanding PoE Technology

Power over Ethernet (PoE) is a revolutionary technology that enables the transmission of both electrical power and data over a single Ethernet cable. This innovative approach to powering network devices has transformed the way we design and deploy network infrastructure. At its core, PoE technology leverages the unused wires within an Ethernet cable to carry DC power alongside the data signals, eliminating the need for separate power cables and outlets.

A typical PoE system consists of two main components: the Power Sourcing Equipment (PSE) and the Powered Device (PD). The PSE, which is usually a PoE-enabled switch or injector, is responsible for delivering power over the Ethernet cable. On the other end, the PD, such as an IP phone, wireless access point, or security camera, receives the power and data from the PSE.

The advantages of PoE technology in network infrastructure are numerous:

• Simplified installation and deployment: With PoE, there's no need to run separate power cables or install electrical outlets near each network device, reducing installation time and costs.

• Flexibility and scalability: PoE enables the placement of network devices in locations where electrical outlets may not be readily available, such as ceilings, walls, or outdoor areas.

• Centralized power management: PoE switches allow for remote monitoring and control of power delivery to connected devices, making it easier to manage and troubleshoot power-related issues.

• Cost-effectiveness: By eliminating the need for separate power cables and outlets, PoE can significantly reduce the overall cost of network infrastructure deployment and maintenance.

Recomended Reading : The Future of Wired Communication Infrastructure: Single Pair Ethernet

IEEE Standards: The Backbone of PoE Evolution

Three primary IEEE standards mark the evolution of PoE technology:

1. IEEE 802.3af (PoE): Introduced in 2003, this standard defined the original PoE specifications, allowing for power delivery up to 15.4W per port.

2. IEEE 802.3at (PoE+): Released in 2009, this standard increased the power delivery capabilities to 30W per port, enabling support for more power-hungry devices.

3. IEEE 802.3bt (PoE++): The latest standard, ratified in 2018, further expanded PoE capabilities with two new types: Type 3 (up to 60W) and Type 4 (up to 100W) per port.
   
   

These standards ensure interoperability between Power Sourcing Equipment (PSE) and Powered Devices (PD) from different manufacturers. They define power levels, negotiation methods, device detection, and safe power delivery. This standardization enables network administrators to deploy PoE solutions confidently, ensuring that compliant devices will work together seamlessly and safely.

The IEEE standards also incorporate important safety measures, such as electrical isolation requirements and protection against short circuits, overloads, and polarity reversal. These safety features are critical in preventing damage to equipment and ensuring the overall reliability of PoE systems.

Here's a comparison table of the key specifications for each PoE standard:

This standardization process has been instrumental in driving the widespread adoption of PoE technology across various industries and applications, from simple IP telephony to complex IoT deployments and high-power lighting systems.

PoE (802.3af) : The Original Standard

The IEEE 802.3af standard, ratified in 2003, marked the official birth of Power over Ethernet technology. This original PoE standard laid the foundation for powering network devices through Ethernet cables, revolutionizing network infrastructure design and deployment.

The 802.3af standard defines a maximum power output of 15.4 watts from the Power Sourcing Equipment (PSE), typically a PoE-enabled switch or injector. However, due to power loss over the cable, the Powered Device (PD) receives a maximum of 12.95 watts. The standard operates at a nominal voltage of 48V DC, with a range of 44V to 57V DC.

Power classification is a key feature of the 802.3af standard, allowing PDs to communicate their power requirements to the PSE. The standard defines four power classes:

1. Class 0: Default class, 0.44 to 12.95W

2. Class 1: 0.44 to 3.84W

3. Class 2: 3.84 to 6.49W

4. Class 3: 6.49 to 12.95W

This classification system enables efficient power allocation and management within the PoE network.

Common devices and applications suitable for 802.3af PoE include:

• IP phones

• Wireless access points (basic models)

• Network cameras (low-power models)

• Access control systems

• Small LCD displays

• VoIP devices

• Basic IoT sensors and actuators

While the power output of 802.3af may seem modest by today's standards, it was sufficient to power a wide range of network devices at the time of its introduction. This standard paved the way for more advanced PoE implementations and sparked the widespread adoption of PoE technology across various industries.

PoE+ (802.3at): Enhanced Power Delivery

PoE+ introduced a new power classification system to complement the increased power capabilities. In addition to the four classes from the original standard, PoE+ added Class 4:

1. Class 0: 0.44 to 12.95W (default)

2. Class 1: 0.44 to 3.84W

3. Class 2: 3.84 to 6.49W

4. Class 3: 6.49 to 12.95W

5. Class 4: 12.95 to 25.5W (new in PoE+)

This expanded classification system allows for more granular power allocation, enabling more efficient use of available power budgets in PoE+ switches.

The increased power delivery of PoE+ had implications for cable requirements and heat dissipation. While PoE+ can still operate over Category 5 cabling, Category 5e or better is recommended for optimal performance and to minimize power loss. The higher current levels in PoE+ can generate more heat in the cabling, particularly when multiple high-power devices are connected to a switch. This necessitates improved thermal management in both the cabling infrastructure and the PoE+ equipment.

To mitigate potential issues with heat buildup, PoE+ introduced more sophisticated power management features. These include:

1. Dynamic power allocation: PoE+ devices can negotiate power levels in real-time, allowing for more efficient use of available power.

2. Power rationing: In case of power budget constraints, PoE+ switches can prioritize power delivery to critical devices.

3. Improved overload and short circuit protection: Enhanced safety features to prevent damage to devices and infrastructure.

The table below highlights the key differences between PoE and PoE+:

The enhancements provided by PoE+ significantly expanded the range of devices that could be powered solely through Ethernet cabling. This includes high-performance wireless access points, pan-tilt-zoom security cameras, video phones with large displays, and even some thin client computers. The increased power delivery and improved management features of PoE+ have made it a cornerstone technology in modern network infrastructure, enabling more flexible and cost-effective deployments across various industries.

PoE++ (802.3bt): The Power Revolution

The IEEE 802.3bt standard, commonly known as PoE++ or 4-Pair PoE, represents a significant leap forward in Power over Ethernet technology. Ratified in September 2018, this latest PoE standard introduces groundbreaking features that dramatically increase power delivery capabilities, opening up new possibilities for powered devices and network applications.

PoE++ introduces two new power classifications: Type 3 and Type 4. These classifications significantly expand the power delivery capabilities of PoE:

1. Type 3 (PoE++):

   • Delivers up to 60W at the Power Sourcing Equipment (PSE)

   • Provides up to 51W at the Powered Device (PD)

   • Utilizes all four pairs of the Ethernet cable for power transmission

2. Type 4 (Higher Power PoE++):

   • Delivers up to 100W at the PSE

   • Provides up to 71.3W at the PD

   • Also utilizes all four pairs for power transmission

This substantial increase in power delivery has far-reaching implications for network infrastructure and device design. PoE++ enables the powering of devices that were previously beyond the capabilities of PoE technology, such as:

• High-power wireless access points supporting advanced features like Wi-Fi 6E

• Pan-tilt-zoom cameras with multiple motors and built-in heaters for outdoor use

• Thin clients and even some desktop computers

• Large, high-brightness digital displays and interactive kiosks

• Multiple device powering through a single PoE port using splitters

• PoE-powered lighting systems for entire rooms or small offices.

Expanding Horizons: New Applications Enabled by PoE+

The increased power delivery capabilities of PoE+ (802.3at) expanded the range of devices and applications that could be powered through Ethernet cabling, enabling more efficient and flexible network deployments across various industries. In enterprise networking, PoE+ supports high-performance wireless access points needed for advanced Wi-Fi standards and high-density environments. The security industry benefits from powering PTZ cameras with PoE+, eliminating separate power supplies. In healthcare, PoE+ powers sophisticated medical and patient infotainment systems. Retailers use PoE+ for digital signage and POS systems, while industrial environments deploy more robust IoT devices and sensors without separate electrical wiring.

Popular PoE+ powered devices include:

• High-performance Wi-Fi access points (802.11ac, Wi-Fi 6)
• Pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) security cameras
• Video IP phones with large color displays
• Thin client computers
• Digital signage displays (up to certain sizes)
• Interactive kiosks and touch-screen terminals
• Advanced IP speakers and intercom systems
• Biometric access control systems
• Automotive Industry
• Network-attached storage (NAS) devices
• Small network switches (for daisy-chaining)
• Industrial control panels and human-machine interfaces (HMIs)
• LED lighting systems (individual or small groups of fixtures)
• Document cameras and some projectors
• Nurse call systems in healthcare settings
• Point-of-sale (POS) systems
• Building automation sensors and controllers

The expanded power capabilities of PoE+ have not only enabled these new applications but have also fostered innovation in device design and network architecture. By simplifying power delivery and reducing the need for separate electrical infrastructure, PoE+ has made it easier and more cost-effective to deploy advanced network-connected devices across a wide range of industries and applications.

Revolutionizing Network Infrastructure with PoE++

The advent of PoE++ (IEEE 802.3bt) has ushered in a new era of possibilities for network infrastructure and powered devices. With its significantly increased power delivery capabilities, PoE++ is enabling a wide range of cutting-edge applications that were previously impractical or impossible with earlier PoE standards.

One of the most exciting areas of development is in high-power IoT devices. PoE++ can now support advanced environmental control systems that integrate heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) with smart sensors and actuators. These systems can precisely manage building climates while optimizing energy consumption, all powered and controlled through the Ethernet network.

In the realm of advanced surveillance systems, PoE++ has enabled the deployment of ultra-high-definition cameras with advanced features such as AI-powered video analytics, thermal imaging, and long-range optical zoom. These cameras can operate in harsh environments thanks to built-in heaters and cooling systems, all powered by a single Ethernet cable.

PoE++ is also revolutionizing the digital signage industry. Large, high-brightness displays and interactive kiosks that previously required separate power sources can now be powered solely through PoE++. This simplifies installation, reduces costs, and provides greater flexibility in positioning displays throughout retail spaces, corporate environments, and public areas.

Choosing the Right PoE Switch

Selecting the appropriate Power over Ethernet (PoE) switch is crucial for building an efficient and future-proof network infrastructure. The decision-making process involves considering various factors such as power requirements, network size, and potential future expansions.

To help compare different PoE switch options, refer to the following table:

Limitations and Legacy Considerations

The original IEEE 802.3af PoE standard, while groundbreaking, has several limitations that have become more evident as network technology and power demands have evolved. The most significant limitation is its maximum power output: 15.4W at the source and 12.95W at the powered device. This restricts the types of devices that can be powered solely through PoE, particularly as modern network equipment requires more power.

Compatibility issues also arise when using higher-power devices with 802.3af PoE switches or injectors. Devices such as pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) cameras, advanced wireless access points, or PoE-powered displays often need more than the 12.95W provided by 802.3af. When connected to an 802.3af power source, these devices may not function properly, operate with limited features, or require an additional power source, negating the benefits of PoE.

Several scenarios highlight the insufficiency of the original PoE standard:

1. High-performance Wi-Fi access points: Many enterprise-grade access points, especially those supporting newer standards like Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), require more than 12.95W to operate at full capacity.

2. PTZ security cameras: These cameras often need additional power for motor operation, zoom functionality, and built-in heaters for outdoor use, exceeding the power budget of 802.3af.

3. VoIP phones with large color displays: Advanced IP phones with large touchscreens and additional features may require more power than 802.3af can provide, especially when powering attached USB devices.

4. PoE lighting systems: While some basic LED lights can operate within the 802.3af power budget, more advanced or brighter lighting solutions often require higher power levels.

5. Thin clients and PoE-powered computers: These devices typically require more than 12.95W to function, making them incompatible with the original PoE standard.

6. Multiple device powering: In scenarios where a single PoE port needs to power multiple devices through a splitter, the 12.95W limit can be quickly reached, restricting the number and type of devices that can be connected.

Furthermore, the original standard's power classification system, with only four classes, lacks granularity. This can lead to inefficient power allocation, where devices might be allocated more power than they actually need, reducing the overall efficiency of the PoE system.

These constraints and compatibility issues highlighted the need for more advanced PoE standards, paving the way for the development of PoE+ (802.3at) and later PoE++ (802.3bt) to address the growing power demands of modern network devices.

Conclusion

Power over Ethernet (PoE) technology has evolved from the basic PoE (802.3af) standard, providing up to 15.4W for devices like IP phones and simple cameras, to PoE+ (802.3at) offering 30W for more demanding devices such as pan-tilt-zoom cameras and high-performance wireless access points. PoE++ (802.3bt) further enhances this, delivering up to 60W (Type 3) or 100W (Type 4) for powering laptops, digital displays, and advanced IoT devices. Selecting the appropriate PoE standard is essential for optimal network performance and future-proofing, considering device power requirements, scalability, and budget. 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the main difference between PoE, PoE+, and PoE++? 
   The main difference lies in their power delivery capabilities. PoE (802.3af) provides up to 15.4W, PoE+ (802.3at) up to 30W, and PoE++ (802.3bt) up to 60W (Type 3) or 100W (Type 4) per port.

2. Are PoE standards backward compatible? 
   Yes, higher PoE standards are generally backward compatible with lower standards. For example, a PoE++ switch can power PoE and PoE+ devices, but not vice versa.

3. How do I determine the power budget needed for my PoE switch?                    Calculate the total power consumption of all PoE devices you plan to connect, add a 10-20% buffer for future expansion, and choose a switch with a power budget that meets or exceeds this total.

4. Can I use existing Ethernet cables for PoE++? 
   PoE++ (802.3bt) requires Cat 5e or better cabling. While it may work with Cat 5 in some cases, it's recommended to use Cat 5e or Cat 6 for optimal performance and power delivery.
   
   

Reference

[1] https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/solutions/enterprise-networks/what-is-power-over-ethernet.html

[2] https://intellinetnetwork.eu/pages/power-over-ethernet

[3] https://versatek.com/what-is-power-over-ethernet/