What should I consider when buying a PoE splitter?

When buying a PoE splitter, it's important to consider several key factors to ensure compatibility, efficiency, and reliability for your network devices. PoE splitters are used to separate power and data from a PoE-enabled Ethernet connection, allowing non-PoE devices to receive power without requiring a separate power adapter. Here’s a detailed guide on what to consider when purchasing a PoE splitter:

1. PoE Standard Compatibility

The first thing to check is whether the PoE splitter supports the PoE standard used by your PoE switch or injector. There are three main PoE standards:

--- 802.3af (PoE): Delivers up to 15.4W (with a usable 12.95W at the device). Suitable for low-power devices like IP cameras, VoIP phones, and small access points.

--- 802.3at (PoE+): Delivers up to 30W (with a usable 25.5W). Used for higher-powered devices such as PTZ cameras, advanced access points, or mini switches.

--- 802.3bt (PoE++, High-Power PoE): Delivers up to 60W or 100W, used for high-power network devices, such as network switches, LED lighting systems, and industrial equipment.

How to Choose:

--- Check your PoE source (switch or injector) to determine the standard it supports.

--- Select a PoE splitter that matches or exceeds that standard to avoid power limitations.

2. Output Voltage Compatibility

PoE splitters convert 48V or 54V PoE power to a lower voltage suitable for non-PoE devices. The most common output voltage options are:

--- 5V – Suitable for Raspberry Pi, single-board computers, USB-powered devices, or low-power IoT devices.

--- 9V – Used for some network cameras and specialized networking hardware.

--- 12V – The most common voltage for IP cameras, access points, routers, and small network switches.

--- 24V – Required for certain wireless bridges, industrial equipment, or telecom devices.

How to Choose:

--- Check your device’s voltage requirement in its specifications (e.g., 12V DC).

--- Ensure the PoE splitter outputs the correct voltage to avoid damaging the device.

--- Some PoE splitters come with adjustable voltage settings (e.g., 5V/9V/12V), making them more versatile for multiple devices.

3. Power Output & Current Capacity

Each device requires a specific amount of power, measured in watts (W) or amps (A). You need to ensure that the PoE splitter can provide enough power for your device.

Example Power Needs for Devices:

How to Choose:

Multiply the voltage (V) by the required current (A) to determine power needs (Watts = Volts × Amps).

Ensure the PoE splitter can supply sufficient power for your device.

--- Example: If an IP camera needs 12V and 1A, the PoE splitter must provide at least 12W (12V × 1A = 12W).

If using PoE+ or PoE++ splitters, confirm they can handle higher wattages (e.g., 25.5W for PoE+ devices).

4. Ethernet Speed Compatibility

PoE splitters pass through network data to the connected device. You need to ensure that the splitter supports the correct Ethernet speed for your network.

Common Ethernet Speed Options:

--- 10/100 Mbps (Fast Ethernet): Suitable for basic IP cameras, VoIP phones, or simple IoT devices.

--- Gigabit (1000 Mbps): Required for high-speed access points, advanced IP cameras, or mini network switches.

--- 2.5G/5G/10G Ethernet: Needed for high-performance enterprise-grade networking devices.

How to Choose:

--- If using Gigabit networking, select a PoE splitter that supports Gigabit Ethernet (1000 Mbps).

--- If your device only needs 10/100 Mbps, a basic PoE splitter will work.

--- Avoid bottlenecks by ensuring the splitter does not reduce the network speed of connected devices.

5. Connector Types & Compatibility

PoE splitters typically have two output connectors:

--- Ethernet RJ45 Output (Data): Connects to the device’s network port.

--- DC Power Output (Power): Connects to the device’s power input.

Considerations:

--- DC Power Plug Size: Most splitters use a 5.5mm × 2.1mm barrel jack. Some devices require different sizes (e.g., 5.5mm × 2.5mm), so check before purchasing.

--- USB Output: Some splitters offer a USB output (e.g., 5V USB for Raspberry Pi or USB-powered devices).

--- Screw Terminal Connectors: Used for industrial applications where a standard barrel jack isn’t suitable.

How to Choose:

--- Ensure the DC power connector is the correct size for your device or use an adapter.

--- If powering a USB device, choose a PoE splitter with USB output (e.g., USB-A or USB-C).

6. Build Quality & Environmental Considerations

If the PoE splitter will be used in harsh environments (outdoor, industrial, or high-temperature settings), consider the following:

Weatherproofing (IP Rating):

--- IP65/IP67: For outdoor or waterproof applications.

--- Indoor Use Only: If no IP rating is specified.

Temperature Range:

--- If used in extreme conditions (hot/cold), check for industrial-grade splitters with wider operating temperatures.

Surge Protection:

--- Protects against voltage spikes and electrical surges.

7. Brand & Reliability

Choosing a reputable brand ensures better quality, longevity, and compatibility. Some well-known brands for PoE splitters include:

--- TP-Link

--- Ubiquiti (Ubiquiti PoE adapters)

--- TRENDnet

--- MikroTik

--- Cudy

--- BV-Tech

--- Benchu Group

Look for customer reviews, warranty policies, and compatibility confirmations before purchasing.

8. Cost vs. Features

PoE splitters range from $10 to $50+, depending on their power capabilities, speed, and additional features.

General Price Ranges:

--- Basic 10/100 Mbps PoE splitters (802.3af, 5V/12V) → $10-$20

--- Gigabit PoE splitters (12V, 24V, 802.3af/at support) → $20-$35

--- High-power PoE+ or PoE++ splitters (25W-60W, industrial-grade) → $35-$50+

How to Choose:

--- For simple setups (VoIP, cameras, access points), a basic 802.3af PoE splitter is sufficient.

--- For high-speed networks (Gigabit Ethernet), invest in a PoE splitter that supports Gigabit speeds.

--- For industrial or high-power use, look for rugged PoE++ (802.3bt) splitters.

Conclusion: How to Choose the Best PoE Splitter

--- Check PoE standard (802.3af/at/bt) to match your PoE source

--- Ensure correct output voltage (5V, 9V, 12V, 24V, etc.)

--- Confirm power output is sufficient for your device

--- Choose the right Ethernet speed (Gigabit for high-speed networking)

--- Verify connector types (DC plug size, USB, screw terminal, etc.)

--- Consider build quality, weatherproofing, and surge protection

--- Pick a reputable brand with good reviews

By following these guidelines, you can choose the right PoE splitter for your specific needs and ensure reliable power delivery to your non-PoE devices.