Step-by-step comparison between Power over Ethernet
(PoE) switches and normal switches:
1. Definition
o PoE Switch: Combines data
transmission with electrical power delivery over Ethernet cables.
o Normal Switch: Only transmits data
between connected devices.
2. Power Delivery
o PoE Switch: Supplies power (up to
100W per port with IEEE 802.3bt) alongside data through Ethernet cables.
o Normal Switch: No power delivery;
devices require separate power sources.
3.
Connected Devices
o PoE Switch: Powers PoE-enabled
devices (e.g., IP cameras, VoIP phones, wireless APs).
o Normal Switch: Connects standard
devices with independent power (e.g., computers, printers).
4.
Cable Requirements
o PoE Switch: Uses standard
Cat5e/Cat6 cables but requires quality wiring for higher power (shielding
recommended).
o Normal Switch: Standard Ethernet
cables suffice for data-only transmission.
5.
Installation Complexity
o PoE Switch: Simplifies setup by
eliminating the need for separate power outlets near devices.
o Normal Switch: Requires power
outlets for each device, increasing cable clutter.
6.
Cost
o PoE Switch: Higher upfront cost
due to integrated power-sourcing hardware.
o Normal Switch: More affordable but
may incur additional costs for power infrastructure.
7.
Power Management
o PoE Switch: Features like power
prioritization, remote reboot, and usage monitoring.
o Normal Switch: No power management;
relies on devices’ own power systems.
8.
Safety Standards
o PoE Switch: Complies with IEEE
802.3af/at/bt to prevent overloads and ensure safe operation.
o Normal Switch: No power-related
safety mechanisms required.
9.
Use Cases
o PoE Switch: Ideal for security
systems, VoIP offices, and smart buildings.
o Normal Switch: Common in traditional
LANs with powered devices (e.g., offices, homes).
10.
Power Budget Limitations
o PoE Switch: Total power output is
capped (e.g., 370W for 24-port), limiting high-power devices.
o Normal Switch: No power budget
constraints.
11.
Compatibility
o PoE Switch: Auto-senses PoE
compatibility; non-PoE devices need splitters.
o Normal Switch: No compatibility
issues; works with all Ethernet devices.
12.
Energy Efficiency
o PoE Switch: Centralized power
control can reduce standby consumption.
o Normal Switch: Devices may draw
standby power independently.
13.
Scalability
o PoE Switch: Easier to expand in
locations without power outlets.
o Normal Switch: Scaling requires
proximity to power sources.
14.
Heat Dissipation
o PoE Switch: Generates more heat,
requiring better cooling.
o Normal Switch: Runs cooler under
typical loads.
15.
Port Flexibility
o PoE Switch: May offer mixed
PoE/non-PoE ports.
o Normal Switch: All ports are
data-only.
16.
Backward Compatibility
o PoE Switch: Can function as a
normal switch if PoE isn’t used.
o Normal Switch: Cannot deliver power
without external injectors.
Summary: PoE switches streamline deployment of powered devices, reduce
cabling, and offer centralized management but cost more and have power
limitations. Normal switches are simpler and cheaper for traditional networks.
Choose based on power needs and installation environment.