What is the maximum power output per port?

The maximum power output per port of a Ultra PoE switch is determined by several factors, including the PoE standard supported, the type of Ultra PoE technology used, and the power requirements of the devices being connected. Understanding the power output per port is crucial because it ensures that connected devices receive adequate power for proper operation. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the maximum power output per port:

1. PoE Standards and Their Power Output

The IEEE 802.3af (PoE), IEEE 802.3at (PoE+), and IEEE 802.3bt (PoE++ or 4PPoE) standards define the power delivered by PoE switches. These standards directly impact the maximum power output per port.

IEEE 802.3af (PoE) – Standard Power over Ethernet

--- Maximum Power per Port: 15.4W (at 48V DC)

--- Power Delivered to Device: Devices typically receive 12.95W after accounting for power loss due to cable resistance.

--- Use Cases: Commonly used for powering devices like IP cameras, VoIP phones, and basic access points that require low-to-moderate power.

IEEE 802.3at (PoE+) – Enhanced Power over Ethernet

--- Maximum Power per Port: 25.5W (at 48V DC)

--- Power Delivered to Device: Devices typically receive 20.5W after cable loss.

--- Use Cases: Suitable for higher-power devices such as more powerful IP cameras (including PTZ), video phones, wireless access points with multiple radios, and small switches.

IEEE 802.3bt (PoE++ or 4PPoE) – Ultra High-Power PoE

--- Maximum Power per Port (Type 3): 60W (at 48V DC)

--- Power Delivered to Device: Typically 51W delivered to the device.

--- Maximum Power per Port (Type 4): 100W (at 48V DC)

--- Power Delivered to Device: Typically 71W delivered to the device.

--- Use Cases: Ideal for high-power devices like high-performance IP cameras, LED lighting, digital signage, large wireless access points, and edge computing devices. This standard is critical for powering more demanding applications.

2. Ultra PoE Technology

A Ultra PoE switch generally refers to a switch that can deliver enhanced power per port compared to standard PoE switches. It can support the PoE++ standard (IEEE 802.3bt) and often extends the power capabilities per port through built-in features like voltage Ultraing, current regulation, and higher power output.

Ultra PoE switches can provide power at the following levels:

--- Up to 60W per Port (PoE Type 3)

--- Up to 100W per Port (PoE Type 4)

These higher power outputs allow Ultra PoE switches to support devices with significant power requirements, such as PTZ cameras, high-end access points, digital signage, and industrial equipment. The ability to support 100W per port is particularly valuable in applications where devices require significant power for both operation and additional functionalities, such as heating elements, motors, or high-performance processors.

3. Power Output Variability Based on Use

Not all PoE devices need the maximum power available, and the power output provided by a Ultra PoE switch is typically dynamic, meaning the switch can adjust the output based on the device’s power demands.

For example:

--- Low-Power Devices: A basic IP camera might only require 7W or 10W. A Ultra PoE switch will deliver the necessary power without overloading the port.

--- High-Power Devices: A PTZ camera might require 30W-50W or more, depending on its features. A Ultra PoE switch configured for 60W or 100W per port ensures it can handle such devices.

--- Power-Hungry Devices: LED lighting, digital signage, or edge computing devices may require up to 100W, and the Ultra PoE switch will deliver this higher power through its enhanced port capabilities.

4. Power Budget of a Ultra PoE Switch

Total Power Budget: The total power budget of a PoE switch refers to the total amount of power the switch can provide across all of its PoE ports. The power output per port is determined not only by the individual port capabilities but also by the overall power budget of the switch.

Example: A Ultra PoE switch might have a total power budget of 750W. If the switch has 8 PoE ports and supports 60W per port, the total power capacity can be distributed to those ports, meaning each port can output 60W while staying within the total power budget of 750W.

Higher Power Models: High-end Ultra PoE switches designed for demanding applications may offer total power budgets of 1,200W or higher, allowing the simultaneous powering of multiple high-power devices like cameras, APs, and digital signage.

5. Cable Length Considerations

Power loss occurs as the Ethernet cable length increases. This means that the maximum power output is typically specified at a cable length of up to 100 meters (328 feet). For longer distances, power may degrade due to the electrical resistance of the cable. Ultra PoE switches are designed to mitigate some of this power loss, but it’s important to account for:

--- Power Degradation Over Distance: At long distances, the effective power delivered to the device decreases due to cable resistance, especially if using Cat5e cables. Cat6 or Cat6a cables are recommended for longer distances to minimize power loss.

--- Use of PoE Extenders: For applications requiring power beyond the 100-meter range, PoE extenders can be used to maintain the necessary power delivery.

6. Practical Examples of Devices Powered by Ultra PoE Switches

PoE Type 4 (100W): Can power high-performance wireless access points (Wi-Fi 6, 6E), LED displays, digital signage, advanced security cameras, and industrial automation devices.

PoE Type 3 (60W): Ideal for PTZ cameras, IP phones with additional features, LED lights, IoT devices, and smart building sensors.

PoE+ (25W): Suitable for devices like standard IP cameras, basic wireless APs, and small to medium VoIP phones.

Summary of Maximum Power Output Per Port

Conclusion

The maximum power output per port of a Ultra PoE switch depends on the PoE standard being used. For IEEE 802.3af, the maximum is 15.4W, while PoE+ increases that to 25.5W. For more demanding applications, PoE++ (Type 3) can provide 60W, and PoE++ (Type 4) can supply up to 100W per port. Ultra PoE switches allow for efficient power management and can deliver these higher outputs reliably across the network, supporting a wide range of devices in commercial, industrial, and outdoor environments.