Power over Ethernet (PoE) is a technology which allows IP cameras to be powered using the same standard Ethernet cable which carries the data connection.
What is PoE?
The IEEE802.3af PoE regulated standard provides power up to 15.4W. This will cover the majority of static network cameras or fixed dome IP cameras but outdoor security cameras with built-in heaters or pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ)/dome cameras normally have a power consumption which exceeds this.
PoE+ Unveiled
To resolve the limitations of IEEE802.3af a new standard is being worked on which will boost the power output allowing for the powering of outdoor/PTZ cameras. This pre-standard is known as IEEE802.3at (or HiPoE, or PoE+) and there are already products available which conform to the new regulation, even before it becomes ratified.
Using Power over Ethernet allows IP security cameras to be installed quickly and easily and without the need for conventional power, they can be placed almost anywhere.