Can PoE splitters be used in industrial environments?
Mar 04, 2025
Yes, PoE splitters can be used in industrial environments, but they must be ruggedized to withstand harsh conditions, including extreme temperatures, electromagnetic interference (EMI), moisture, dust, and vibrations. Industrial-grade PoE splitters are designed to provide stable power and data transmission in factories, warehouses, outdoor sites, automation systems, and smart city applications.
Key Features of Industrial-Grade PoE Splitters
1. Industrial-Grade Build & Rugged Housing
Unlike standard PoE splitters, industrial versions feature:
--- Metal or reinforced plastic enclosures – Protects against impact and vibrations.
--- DIN-rail or wall-mount design – Allows easy installation in control cabinets or on factory walls.
--- High mechanical durability – Resistant to physical shocks and mechanical stress.
Choose metal-housed splitters for maximum durability in industrial settings.
2. Wide Operating Temperature Range
Industrial environments often experience extreme temperatures.
--- Standard PoE splitters: 0°C to 40°C (32°F to 104°F)
--- Industrial PoE splitters: -40°C to 75°C (-40°F to 167°F)
For outdoor factories, smart cities, or extreme climates, select splitters rated for -40°C to 75°C.
3. PoE Standard & Power Output
Industrial equipment often requires more power than office devices. Choose a PoE splitter with sufficient wattage:
--- IEEE 802.3af (PoE, 15.4W) – Low-power sensors, IoT devices.
--- IEEE 802.3at (PoE+, 30W) – IP cameras, access points, automation controllers.
--- IEEE 802.3bt (PoE++, 60W-100W) – High-power industrial devices like PTZ cameras, LED lighting, or robotic arms.
For high-power industrial applications, choose a PoE++ (802.3bt) splitter with at least 60W output.
4. Surge & Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Protection
Industrial environments have high electromagnetic interference (EMI) and electrical surges due to heavy machinery.
--- Surge protection (6kV or higher) – Prevents damage from voltage spikes.
--- ESD shielding (15kV or higher) – Protects against electrostatic discharge.
--- EMI-resistant shielding – Ensures stable data transmission near high-power motors.
Choose a PoE splitter with built-in surge and EMI protection to avoid failures.
5. Waterproof & Dustproof Rating (IP Rating)
Industrial areas, especially factories, warehouses, and outdoor sites, may expose PoE splitters to dust, moisture, and chemical exposure.
--- IP30 or higher – Protects against dust in standard industrial settings.
--- IP65 / IP67 – Fully weatherproof for outdoor industrial sites.
--- Sealed connectors – Prevents corrosion in harsh environments.
For dusty or wet environments, use at least an IP65-rated PoE splitter.
6. Power Connector & Output Compatibility
--- Voltage output (5V, 12V, 24V, 48V) – Industrial devices require different voltages. Choose a splitter that matches your device’s power input.
--- Screw terminal or barrel plug options – Industrial PoE splitters often use screw terminals instead of DC barrel plugs for secure connections.
Ensure the splitter provides the correct voltage and connector type for your industrial equipment.
Best Industrial-Grade PoE Splitters (Recommended Models)
1. Planet IPOE-171-12V (For Industrial Cameras & IoT Sensors)
--- PoE Standard: IEEE 802.3at (PoE+), 30W
--- Output: 12V/2A DC
--- Temperature Range: -40°C to 75°C
--- Protection: 6kV surge protection, EMI shielding
--- Best For: Industrial cameras, sensors, and automation systems
2. UCTRONICS Industrial PoE Splitter (For Heavy-Duty Industrial Devices)
--- PoE Standard: IEEE 802.3bt (PoE++), 60W
--- Output: 24V/2.5A DC
--- Temperature Range: -40°C to 75°C
--- Protection: IP67 waterproof, surge & ESD protection
--- Best For: High-power industrial automation, lighting, and security systems
3. Tycon Power Systems POE-SPLT-4824G (For Networking & Automation Equipment)
--- PoE Standard: IEEE 802.3af/at (PoE/PoE+), 30W
--- Output: 24V/2A DC
--- Temperature Range: -40°C to 60°C
--- Protection: Industrial metal housing, EMI protection
--- Best For: Wireless bridges, industrial access points, PLC controllers
Alternative Industrial Solutions
1. Use an Industrial PoE Injector Instead of a Splitter
If your industrial device does not support PoE, a PoE injector + regular switch may be a better alternative.
2. Use an Industrial PoE Switch for Multiple Devices
Instead of using multiple splitters, an industrial PoE switch provides direct power to multiple devices.
3. Use a Waterproof Enclosure for Additional Protection
If your PoE splitter is not weatherproof, place it in a sealed outdoor-rated junction box for extra protection.
Conclusion: Can PoE Splitters Be Used in Industrial Environments?
--- Yes, but they must be industrial-grade to handle harsh conditions.
Choosing the Right Industrial PoE Splitter:
--- For low-power IoT & sensors → Use a PoE/PoE+ splitter (IEEE 802.3af/at, 12V output).
--- For industrial automation & networking → Use a PoE+ splitter with EMI shielding & surge protection.
--- For high-power industrial devices → Use a PoE++ (IEEE 802.3bt, 60W-100W) splitter with rugged housing.
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