Surveillance systems are becoming increasingly popular, and one of the key aspects of their installation is providing power to the equipment. Power over Ethernet (POE) and Enhanced Power over Ethernet (ePOE) technologies allow both power and data to be transmitted over a single Ethernet cable, simplifying installation, increasing reliability, and reducing costs.




POE: Basic Principles and Standards


What is POE?

POE is a technology that enables the transmission of electrical power and data through a single Ethernet cable. It eliminates the need for separate power cables, making IP camera installation simpler and more versatile.


Main POE Standards:


1. IEEE 802.3af (POE)

• Maximum power: up to 15.4 W.

• Voltage: 44–57 V.

• Applications: standard cameras, low-power devices.


2. IEEE 802.3at (POE+)

• Maximum power: up to 25.5 W.

• Voltage: 50–57 V.

• Applications: high-resolution cameras (HD/4K), PTZ cameras.


3. IEEE 802.3bt (POE++ or 4PPoE)

• Maximum power: up to 60 W (Type 3) and up to 100 W (Type 4).

• Voltage: 50–57 V.

• Applications: devices with heating, cameras with extended functionality.


POE Advantages:


• Simplified installation using a single cable.

• Flexibility in equipment placement.

• Centralized power management.

• Protection against overloads and power surges.


ePOE: A Solution for Long Distances


What is ePOE?

ePOE (Enhanced Power over Ethernet) is an advanced version of POE that allows power and data transmission over greater distances. ePOE is ideal for surveillance systems requiring cameras to be connected far from power sources and switches.


Key Features of ePOE:


1. Transmission Distance:

• Up to 800 meters at 10 Mbps.

• Up to 300 meters at 100 Mbps.


2. Energy Efficiency:

ePOE reduces energy losses over long cables by using low-voltage differential transmission.


3. Compatibility:

ePOE cameras are compatible with traditional POE switches, but specialized ePOE switches or injectors are required for maximum distance performance.


ePOE Advantages:

• Eliminates the need for additional extenders or repeaters.

• Allows camera installation at distances of up to 800 meters.

• Supports high-power devices, including PTZ cameras and cameras with heating.


Comparison of POE and ePOE


Feature
POE
ePOE
Maximum Distance
100 meters
800 meters (10 Mbps)
Maximum Power
Up to 100 W (802.3bt)
Up to 100 W
Transmission Speed
Up to 1 Gbps
Up to 100 Mbps (300 m)
Application
Standard and PTZ cameras
Cameras at long distances


Applications of the Technologies


1. Perimeter and Large Area Security

ePOE effectively organizes surveillance for remote areas such as warehouses, parks, bridges, or long perimeters.

2. Urban and Street Surveillance Systems

Using POE simplifies camera installation in dense urban infrastructure where access to electrical networks is limited.

3. Industrial Sites

ePOE is ideal for factories, railway platforms, and oil or gas facilities requiring cameras at significant distances.


Recommendations for Choosing Equipment


• For Standard Needs: Use POE or POE+ to connect cameras within 100 meters of the switches.

• For Long Distances: Choose ePOE if data and power need to be transmitted over distances greater than 100 meters.

• Cable Quality: Use Ethernet cables of at least Cat 5e to ensure stable data transmission.

• Check Compatibility: Ensure your devices support the required POE or ePOE standards.


Conclusion


POE and ePOE are versatile technologies that simplify the installation of surveillance systems, making them more reliable and energy-efficient. POE is suitable for standard needs, while ePOE solves distance-related challenges, providing stability and high performance.


Choosing the right technology depends on the specific requirements of the site and the security system, but both standards significantly optimize installation and operational processes.