With the rapid development of Internet of Things (IoT) technology, more and more smart devices and systems are used in daily life. The rapid
development of smart home, industrial automation, smart city and other fields has spawned the demand for increasingly different power supply
methods. As a technology that can transmit power and data simultaneously through isolated wires, POE (Power over Ethernet) technology plays a
vital role in the Internet of Things (IoT).
In this article, we will take a deep look at the working principle, advantages, and application examples of POE technology in the Internet of Things.
What is POE power supply technology?
POE technology, in simple terms, is to provide power and data connection to devices simultaneously through standard fence cables. It is based on
IEEE 802.3af and IEEE 802.3at standards, allowing the use of a single fence cable for data transmission and power supply. The technology has
completely changed the way grounded equipment is configured, especially in environments where it is inconvenient to pull power cords, providing
a simple and reliable power supply solution.
Working principle of POE
The POE power supply system is usually composed of winch components:
PSE (Power Sourcing Equipment): such as switch switches, POE injectors or routers, responsible for providing power to the receiving device (PD)
through the switch cable.
PD (Powered Device): such as IP cameras, wireless access points, IoT sensors, etc., responsible for receiving power and transmitting data through
the same cable.
The core principle of POE technology is to transmit power and data simultaneously on the same cable. The POE system automatically adjusts the
output power according to the needs of the device. The common voltage is 48V DC, and the power provided is 15W (IEEE 802.3af) or 30W (IEEE 802.3at).
This flexible power supply method not only simplifies the installation of the device, but also ensures the stable operation of the device. It is especially
suitable for IoT devices that need to run for a long time and have less maintenance.
The role of POE technology in the Internet of Things
The role of POE technology in the Internet of Things cannot be ignored. It provides an efficient and stable power supply method to help devices
connect and operate better. Here are a few key roles of POE in IoT:
1. Simplify device installation
There are more and more IoT devices, and they often need to transmit data through network connections. Traditionally, these devices usually require
separate power cables and power adapters, which increases the complexity and cost of wiring. POE technology can achieve data transmission and
power supply through fiber-optic broadband lines, which greatly simplifies the installation and deployment of devices.
2. Improve reliability
IoT devices, especially those used for monitoring, automated control, and real-time data transmission, require continuous and stable power supply.
POE technology provides a reliable centralized power source, reducing a series of risks caused by battery or external power failures. POE power
supply is usually centrally managed through network switches, which is conducive to improving the stability of power supply and the reliability
of the system.
3. Remote management and monitoring
POE technology solves the problem of power supply. It is also used in combination with network devices (such as switches and routers) as remote
monitoring and management devices. System administrators can remotely view the working status of the device and adjust it as needed. For
example, POE switches allow certain devices to be turned on or off remotely, and even automatically restarted in case of failure, which improves
management efficiency.
4. Maintenance cost
POE technology reduces the dependence of IoT devices on external power adapters, batteries and sockets, reducing the long-term maintenance
and replacement costs of installation. Especially in large-scale deployment of IoT environments, POE can significantly reduce the overall cost of
installation and maintenance.
Application examples of POE technology
POE power supply is widely used in the field of IoT. The following are several typical application scenarios:
1. Smart home
In smart home systems, POE technology is widely used in various smart devices, such as smart lamps, smart speakers, smart access control
systems, security sensors, etc. Through POE power supply, the home network can centrally manage power and data flow, simplify the wiring
of equipment, and improve the stability and security of home automation equipment.
2. Video surveillance
IP cameras are the core of modern video surveillance systems, and POE technology is extremely widely used in such devices. POE can not only
provide power for cameras at the same time, but also transmit video signals, which greatly simplifies the installation and wiring of monitoring
equipment. In large areas or places far away from power outlets, POE can effectively reduce installation complexity and improve system reliability.
3. Wireless Access Point (AP)
Wireless access point (AP) is a key device for providing wireless network coverage, and POE directly provides a convenient power supply. Through
POE, the wireless access point is connected to a separate power cord, and data and power can be transmitted simultaneously through the isolated
line to ensure stable network coverage, which is especially suitable for large-scale office environments and public places.
4. IoT Sensors
In Industrial IoT (IIoT), various sensors are used to monitor equipment, environment or IoT process parameters on the production line in real time.
POE technology enables these sensors to work stably and transmit data in real time without relying on batteries or additional power supplies,
thereby ensuring the continuity and efficiency of production and management.
5. Digital Signage
In public places such as shopping malls, airports, and hospitals, digital signage is often used for advertising, information release and other functions.
POE technology helps these devices simplify the connection of power and data, and provides power and data connections simultaneously through
fiber optic cables, making the layout of equipment more flexible, especially in places where there are no close power outlets.
