The Importance of PoE in Surveillance and Remote Security Systems

Many devices on the network today, such as IP cameras, IP phones, etc., can be powered by PoE. These are all PoE devices. Due to the benefits these devices offer, they are widely used in the security and surveillance fields. This is mainly due to the existence of remote PoE, which extends the transmission capacity over geographical distances and simultaneously powers devices on the network. This article focuses on what is remote PoE, and its applications and benefits in remote security systems.

Application of PoE in surveillance and remote security systems

PoE saves on the need for additional external power supplies to power certain devices on the network. Also, there is no need to install fiber optic cables or focus on selecting fiber optic cables for PoE. The existing Cat5 Ethernet cables can do the job of data transmission and can also power the devices. This is done with a PoE switch. It is a regular switch with three prongs that can be connected to the distribution panel to get the power. It converts this energy into low-voltage energy and provides it to the connected devices on the network. Basically, an Ethernet cable is a string of about 8 cables, 4 of which are used to transmit data and the other 4 are used for power. This is especially useful for remote security systems, where the cameras may be located in faraway locations where power cannot be supplied. Here are some of the benefits of PoE switches for remote security systems:

• PoE switches simplify the task of finding locations where cameras may need to be installed.
• This saves time, cost and wiring complexity.
• These switches are compact and expandable and can be easily transported from one location to another if required.
• These switches offer a varying number of ports from 4 to 48 and come in two types – managed and unmanaged. While unmanaged switches are very basic, they can still be effective in powering your network.
• Smart or managed switches are better in terms of control and functionality.
• PoE switches provide a good level of security to the network as there is minimal outside interference.

Benefits of Remote PoE for Security and Monitoring

The IEEE 802.3 standard for PoE devices has prompted manufacturers to launch IEEE-compliant devices to meet the growing demand. This demand is basically because of the benefits offered by the PoE system, especially in the field of security. Initially, despite the advantages of PoE such as simultaneous power supply and data transmission, it had limitations in terms of distance. However, long-distance PoE has helped to solve this problem to a great extent. Depending on the type of cable, the transmission distance can be extended due to this technology. Long-distance PoE is basically a managed switch that saves the cost of fiber-optic cables and is easy to install.

Here are some reasons why PoE systems are being used in surveillance applications.

• A major issue in this area is remote access and equipment installed in remote areas without access to an electrical grid. This is where PoE systems come in handy.
• In addition to basic functions, PoE systems also have battery backup capabilities, which is essential in remote areas.
• Supports low and high data rates up to 10Gbps.
• PoE makes surveillance systems cost-effective because signal splitters, multiplexers, etc. are not required.
• Users of surveillance systems can remotely control CCTV cameras placed in hard-to-access locations.
• Remotely reset cameras or calibrate devices connected on the network.