Ubiquiti Power over Ethernet Products:

Power over Ethernet Adapters also known as POE Injectors power Ubiquiti products conveniently over the Ethernet cable that connects the device to the network.

Protection for Devices

POE switches protect devices against ESD events through built-in surge protection and grounding technology. Electrostatic discharge often referred to as ESD is the main cause of outdoor devices failing. With a POE injector combined with TOUGHCable connectors and TOUGHCable, you will have several features to protect your devices. These include:

  1. Surge protection
  2. AC cable with earth ground
  3. Clamping protection
  4. Peak pulse current, and
  5. Maximum surge discharge

Compatibility with the airGateway

Not many adapters are designed to work seamlessly with the airGateway. The airGateway is a high performance and convenient WISP customer WiFi solution, which makes it possible to power the outdoor airMAX CPE with indoor client devices.

Convenient Wall-Mounting

Several models such as the 24V, 0.5A models POE-24-12W-G, and POE-24-12W are made to be wall mountable. They come with wall mount brackets that you can opt to use if you prefer to have your injectors on the wall.

PoE Adapters work with most Ubiquiti devices, including:

  1. airFiber
  2. UFiber
  3. AirMAX
  4. UnifFi LED
  5. EdgeMAX
  6. UniFi Video/airVision
  7. MFi and
  8. UniFi

Authorized resellers and distributors of the leading Ubiquiti Power over Ethernet solutions

[A] Ubiquiti UniFi master Ubiquiti distributor

Ubiquiti UniFi offers a scalable yet robust solution for large PoE deployments. UniFi PoE switches are available with 8, 16, 24, and 48 ports and perform the function of an Endspan device. They have been designed as the ideal solution for providing power to UniFi Access Points, UniFi Dream Machine (UDM), and UniFi Security Gateway (USG), and other Powered Devices (PDs). In larger networks, providing the electrical wiring and power outlets for multiple access points is impractical when you can use a competent network switch to do the job. The UniFi network switches also are far more convenient than AC PoE injectors as a one-stop solution for power and connectivity.

Non-PoE enabled switches can be used in Power over Ethernet networking. High-performance Uni-Fi standard switches can be used with a Midspan device that provides PoE injection. These devices receive Ethernet connectivity from the standard switch but add DC power to the connecting Ethernet cable to drive power to client devices. Additional space on a rack and expense is required for this arrangement versus a PoE switch.

Ubiquiti UniFi delivers multi-mode PoE connectivity

The output of Ubiquiti PoE network components and devices is available in two distinct modes:

  1. Active Power over Ethernet: With active PoE, the voltage supplied to powered devices can be selected from the three leading standards - PoE (802.3af) PoE+ (802.3at), and PoE++ (802.3bt).

  2. Passive Power over Ethernet: Passive PoE delivers a fixed output voltage, that cannot be altered or negotiated. Typical voltages are 24, 48, or 54 volts.

The switch functionality of UniFi PoE switches can be managed using a UniFi network controller. The network controller oversees the power output modes, matching them to the different networked PDs. The power method of specific switches should be compared with the power requirements of connected PDs.

The PoE switches will have a maximum power consumption that determines the performance of the PoE switch in powering multiple devices. The PoE network switch has an overall power consumption that is then divided among the individual ports. If all ports are used by PDs with high power demand it is possible that the consumption of power would exceed the supply from the PoE switch, so each device’s power requirements must be assessed before connection to the switch.

Power delivery via PoE cables with Ubiquiti UniFi

Ubiquiti Power over Ethernet networking uses 10/100 and Gigabit networking which is delivered over Category 6 cable. The 8 pins in the network switch port correspond to the 4 twisted pairs of an Ethernet cable. The 802.3 PoE standards specify how many of the twisted pairs are used to transmit data or power. The 802.3af and at standards limit the wires used for power transmission to two of the four pairs. There are two methods described for this type of PoE power transfer:

Mode A: transmits power and data on the outer pairs 1,2,3 and 6 with two twisted pairs unused. It is usually used in Endspan PoE where data and power are transmitted from the same source or switch.

Mode B: uses two dedicated wire pairs 4,5,7, and 8 for transmitting power with the unused pairs for data. This is the method for supplying power used by PoE adapters or injectors that drive power into the cable separately to the data source.

[B] Ubiquiti Edge Power leading Ubiquiti supplier

EdgePower is a modular DC Power Supply Unit (PSU) system that can supply Power over Ethernet to compatible routers and switches as well as a range of client devices. These PoE PSE units are rack-mountable, with each delivering up to 150 watts. Optional supplementary PSUs can be added to boost the supplied wattage to 300 watts or be used as a backup to maintain a continual power supply if the primary supply fails. The EfgePower output is designed to remain stable even when switching between modules.

EdgePower delivers an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS), and two PoE ports that provide 24 or 54 volt DC output depending on the model. The PSU can receive AC power or 12-volt battery input. The unit’s output is grounded via chassis screws an RJ45 shield and AC input earthing. The EdgePower module can run reliably for a prolonged period with an in-built fan assisting thermostatic control.

These managed PoE switches can be remotely configured and controlled, with a software user interface. Its proprietary user interface supports easy monitoring of the PSU and connected PDs with remote IP management. A local web-based user interface can also be used. The device can also provide remote alerts in the event of a power outage. Overload protection on these units includes the ability to disable output from the unit and lowering of output voltage whilst maintaining current.

The EdgePower PSU is designed for telecommunications applications including use as a reliable modular power supply for small cell site towers. Given its functionality and performance, the EdgePower PSU is surprisingly cost-effective.

[C] Ubiquiti PoE Power Adapters authorized reseller

Ubiquiti provides an expansive range of performance PoE injectors that can power both proprietary Ubiquiti® powered devices and other non-Ubiquiti products.

These power adapters are essential for robust and reliable midspan PoE applications as they are capable of adding PoE connectivity to a non-PoE Ethernet network. These in-line devices can be connected via Ethernet cable to network switches and drive power to a range of client devices.

Power over Ethernet injectors carry two RJ45 Ethernet ports: one port receives data input from a downstream switch, access point, or base station and the second port pushes the data and power using 802.3af/at power injection. Mains outlet AC power (100 to 240 volts at 50-60 Hz) is used to supply the Power over Ethernet Adapter.

The Ubiquiti PoE adapters deliver DC power at voltages between 15 and 54 volts and current of up to 1.5 amps depending on the model. Most of the PoE ports on this range of PoE injectors provide 2-pair powering delivering DC power via an RJ45 shielded socket on pins 4 and 5 (+) and 7 and 8 (-). Higher power PoE power adapters provide 4-pair powering on pins 1, 2, 4, and 5 (+) and 3.6.7 and 8 (-).

Also, these PoE power adapters have integrated earth grounding and surge protection (difference and common-mode) to protect against Lightning, Electrostatic Discharge (ESD), and other overvoltage or surge events.

[D] Voltage Step-down for Ubiquiti PoE networking from an authorized reseller

Voltage step-down converters are a key inline PoE component for safely delivering power to PDs at the correct voltage and current. Not all Power over Ethernet injectors, switches, and endspans are fully standards-compliant, but a 802.3af adapter can be used to ensure that client devices are powered at the correct voltage according to 802.3af specifications.

Use the Instant 802.3af Adapter to ensure that you have fully compliant 48-volt power delivery with any suitable switch and PD.

Voltage step-down adapters are a useful device for remote-powering sensitive equipment. To prevent overvoltage some users will install a very long cable between switch and device in the expectation of some voltage drop along the line, but an adapter provides consistent performance and reliable power delivery. These units carry two Gigabit RJ45 ports, with a power input of 48 volts and a maximum power output of 24 volts, 0.5 amps. PoE is delivered by passive powering with power delivered over wires 4,5 7, and 8. The Gigabit Ethernet ports ensure high throughput networking, suitable for a range of applications.

This voltage step-down adapter also provides in-built surge and ESD protection with +/-15kV of Ethernet isolation. It is available in outdoor and indoor versions.

[E] Ubiquiti Power over Ethernet Surge Protection - authorized Ubiquiti distributor

Sensitive electronic devices such as those powered through PoE are vulnerable to the effects of sudden overvoltage or surge events. Electrostatic Discharge remains a leading cause of significant damage to electronics and direct or indirect lightning strikes can also cause device failure and network downtime. Though Ubiquiti PoE networking equipment has in-built surge protection, supplementary surge protection devices can be installed within networks to deliver added protection against the effects of transients.

The ETH-SP G2 is a second-generation passive Surge Protection Device (SPD). It is designed to be installed inline and carries two RJ45 ports for cable input/output. Overvoltage on the line will be conducted to the SPD which diverts any overvoltage via an earthing screw that can be connected to an earth wire or metal pole. The ETH-SP can deal with surge voltages between 100 volts per second and 1 kilovolt per microsecond. This plug-and-play device is designed to be easily mounted and is compatible with most Ubiquiti PoE devices.

Why are Ubiquiti PoE products important?

Ubiquiti Power over Ethernet hardware is compatible with the following Ubiquiti PoE products:

Power over Ethernet solutions for Ubiquiti airFiber®

AirFiber is a high-performance wireless broadband internet technology that uses wireless full-duplex point-to-point radio links rather than cables or fiber. These Gigabit-speed long-distance radio links are supported by a proprietary split antenna design with straightforward installation, configuration, and enhancement.

Power over Ethernet solutions for Ubiquiti airMAX®

Ubiquiti airMAX® is another specialist point-to-point and point-to-multipoint wireless networking solution for the outdoor setting. AirMAX® high-capacity, low-latency broadband networks use TDMA technology and include Basestations, and Customer Premise Equipment (CPE).

Power over Ethernet solutions for Ubiquiti EdgeMAX®

Ubiquiti EdgeMax provides powerful Ethernet-based carrier-class networking solutions for indoor and outdoor settings. The robust EdgeMax routers and switches can be used with Power over Ethernet injectors while supporting fast network connectivity with SFP and SFP+. These devices are managed via a proprietary software interface, EdgeOS. EdgeMAX switches and routers can be powered by a 24 volt passive PoE or power adapter via a designated input PoE port.

Power over Ethernet solutions for Ubiquiti mFi®

This machine-to-machine (M2M networking) management system includes hardware and software that is designed to deliver precision monitoring and control for industrial and commercial settings. The system relies on powered mFi sensors, covering motion, temperature, and movement, that relay data for centralized remote control by mFi controller software. Power for the mFi system can be provided by Power over Ethernet via mPort or other Ubiquiti switches.

Power over Ethernet solutions for UniFi® AP

UniFi is an enterprise-level WiFi networking solution providing performance outdoor and indoor access points, routers, and software/cloud control that supports the management of multiple wireless networks. The system is highly modular, flexible, and scalable and PoE adds an additional layer of functionality as APs can be powered in locations where an AC outlet is unavailable. UniFi equipment can be powered using PoE injectors or switches.

Power over Ethernet solutions for Ubiquiti UFiber

Fiber Optic networking technology delivers outstanding network speeds and exceptional performance. Ubiquiti UFiber is a plug-and-play network technology that uses fiber, a global first.

The UFiber system provides all the components to build a cost-effective, efficient, and scalable fiber-optic network with centralized management by a web user interface. This networking system is compatible with Power over Ethernet. For example, the UFiber AE fiber to copper

media converter can be powered effectively by 802.3af PoE.

Frequently asked questions

What is Power over Ethernet?

Power over Ethernet also known as PoE is a technology that enables DC power to be driven to compatible Ethernet devices over two or four of the twisted pairs of Ethernet cable. This powering of client devices takes place simultaneously with bidirectional data exchange. High speed and high-throughput data transfer are supported by this technology with speeds of up to 10 Gigabit per second able to be supported alongside PoE functionality.

PoE provides safe and reliable power transfer over Cat 5, Cat 5e, or Cat 6 cable and can be used in local area networking (LAN). The remote transfer of power can take place over cable lengths of up to 100 meters (328 feet). This removes the need for an additional AC or DC power line and supports a continuously expanding range of applications including the powering of security systems, IP cameras, and domestic lighting.

Standardized PoE provides power to devices safely

Power over Ethernet developed from a variety of experimental and unstandardized “power injection” technologies. The initial versions of PoE had inconsistent results and performance and were capable of damaging powered equipment. The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) took these ad-hoc systems and technologies and developed and published the 802.3 standards and certifications that have provided assurance and widespread adoption. The first and most widely used standard, 802.3af was released in 2003. Further releases of standards in 2008, 2012, and most recently 2018 had increased the level of power delivery and diversified the techniques used to deliver power over twisted pair cables.

PoE technology is still affected by being a collection of ad-hoc technologies that do not all provide intercompatibility or consistent performance. Ubiquiti’s range of intercompatible and 802.3 certified-compliant PoE solutions are excellent solutions for PoE products that can be assessed and combined by end-users easily.

PoE provides targeted power delivery required to sensitive electronics

PoE is not affected by the frequency inconsistencies and irregularities that can come with AC power. It has been designed with built-in power management that prevents over or under voltage of the power supply. Powered devices only draw the power they need. Also, easily available battery backup solutions mean that devices and networks are safeguarded against power interruption. Power over Ethernet also can be managed and configured centrally meaning that the level of power supplied can be adjusted, diverted, or reset.

A flexible and adaptable power system

PoE can be used to deliver power to non-POE compatible devices or integrated into Ethernet networks that do not carry PoE. A range of components and powering levels and methods make this system highly adaptable. Also, Gigabit networking means that contemporary high-definition audiovisual streaming data can be reliably transmitted simultaneously. Basic PoE components as outlined in the original 802.3af standard include:

1. Power Sourcing Equipment (PSE)

These devices, which include switches and controllers can source and supply power to downstream PoE devices. They are usually connected to a battery or AC power outlet and can deliver power at multiple levels of PoE. PSE equipment is designed to detect the connection of a downstream device and assess and deliver power at the right level via connecting Ethernet cables. The powering arrangement that uses PSE is known as End-span. Power over Ethernet switches or PoE switches are network switches that are able to power connected devices within a network as well as routing data. They are a type of PSE.

2. PoE Midspan devices

These devices are also known as Power over Ethernet injectors or PoE adapters. They are added inline to an existing non-PoE network, connected between the network switch and the device(s) to be powered. They carry individual or multiple PoE ports allowing power to be injected into the Ethernet cable to a downstream device. PoE injectors can also be used for targeted power delivery beyond the usual 100 meters (328 feet) limit of PoE.

3. Powered devices (PD)

These are a broad range of electronic devices that are compatible with PoE and able to receive DC power by this method. PDs can receive endspan or midspan power and are usually compliant with one or more of the IEEE 802.3 PoE standards.

4. PoE splitters

PoE splitters are a solution for providing PoE power supply to non-PoE compatible devices. They are a great option for including legacy or low-power devices within PoE networks. Splitters are able to receive power and data on a single cable from a PoE PSE and separate the power and data signals. The power and data are then fed separately into a client device via separate DC power and RJ45 cables.

What are the IEEE 802.3 Power over Ethernet standards?

  • IEEE 802.3af

IEEE 802.3af is also designated PoE and is the first Power over Ethernet standard, released in 2003. It specifies a power delivery of up to 15.4 watts of DC power (44 volts, 350 milliamps). Due to power lost along the cable as heat the minimum guaranteed power delivered is 12.95 watts. Power delivery is limited to 2 of the four twisted pairs of Ethernet cable. PoE also specifies a requirement for PSE to perform a handshake with powered devices before delivering power as well as key connect/disconnect protocols that protect sensitive equipment. Devices that receive power from PoE are known as Type 1 devices and include VoIP phones.

  • IEEE 802.3at

This 2009 standard is also known as PoE+ (PoE Plus). It was devised as an update of the original PoE standard, delivering up to 30 watts of power. 802.3at is backward compatible with 802.3af. Devices that use this power over Ethernet standard are known as Type 2 devices and include access points and security cameras.

  • IEEE 802.3bt

This form of Power over Ethernet is designated PoE++ and is a 2018 release that delivers power over all 4 twisted pairs of Ethernet cable. Using all eight wires for power delivery provides a significant uplift in the power capabilities of this technology. PoE++ is delivered at 2 distinct levels:

  • Type 3 delivers up to 55 watts of power to compatible devices.
  • Type 4 provides up to 100 watts of power to compatible PDs.

What is the best cable for Ubiquiti PoE equipment?

Ubiquiti ToughCable is a specialist type of Ethernet cable that is exclusively owned and manufactured by Ubiquiti. ToughCable is a Category 5e shielded Ethernet cable which has some Category 6 design and performance features.

ToughCable has 8 solid bare copper conducting wires that provide excellent power handling and can support Gigabit Ethernet transmission speeds. Its superior shielding includes a secondary braided shield, anti-crosstalk divider, and drain wire.

It is an industrial-grade cable that is weather resistant making it suitable for outdoor PoE installations and even burial. Another advantage of using ToughCable is its integrated ESD protection.

About PoE Switches

The PoE switch otherwise known as the Power over Ethernet switch uses Power over Ethernet technology to make a highly effective network and power switch. There are different types of PoE switches that include the managed, unmanaged and the 8/12/24/48 port PoE switch among others.

Why Use a PoE Switch?

  1. Flexibility – PoE switches eliminate the need for additional electrical wiring given that they provide power through the Ethernet cable. This makes it easy to position your equipment and devices anywhere in the room. Combined with wireless technology you can practically have a cable-free environment.
  2. Reliability – Provides power from a universal and central compatible source rather than from varied wall adapters making it easy to use an uninterruptible power supply to provide backup.
  3. Cost Efficient – You do not have to purchase and install additional outlets and wires meaning you can save a lot on maintenance and installation expenses.

In conclusion

Ubiquiti has distinguished itself as a manufacturer of a broad range of high-specification PoE solutions. These 802.3af, 802.3at, and 802.3bt compliant devices are designed to provide seamless integration for power delivery in a variety of networks. By purchasing Ubiquiti PoE products and components, the performance and uptime of networks are safeguarded with targeted ESD and surge protection provided in-built in all branded devices and cables.

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Ubiquiti Power over Ethernet Products:

Power over Ethernet Adapters also known as POE Injectors power Ubiquiti products conveniently over the Ethernet cable that connects the device to the network.

Protection for Devices

POE switches protect devices against ESD events through built-in surge protection and grounding technology. Electrostatic discharge often referred to as ESD is the main cause of outdoor devices failing. With a POE injector combined with TOUGHCable connectors and TOUGHCable, you will have several features to protect your devices. These include:

  1. Surge protection
  2. AC cable with earth ground
  3. Clamping protection
  4. Peak pulse current, and
  5. Maximum surge discharge

Compatibility with the airGateway

Not many adapters are designed to work seamlessly with the airGateway. The airGateway is a high performance and convenient WISP customer WiFi solution, which makes it possible to power the outdoor airMAX CPE with indoor client devices.

Convenient Wall-Mounting

Several models such as the 24V, 0.5A models POE-24-12W-G, and POE-24-12W are made to be wall mountable. They come with wall mount brackets that you can opt to use if you prefer to have your injectors on the wall.

PoE Adapters work with most Ubiquiti devices, including:

  1. airFiber
  2. UFiber
  3. AirMAX
  4. UnifFi LED
  5. EdgeMAX
  6. UniFi Video/airVision
  7. MFi and
  8. UniFi

Authorized resellers and distributors of the leading Ubiquiti Power over Ethernet solutions

[A] Ubiquiti UniFi master Ubiquiti distributor

Ubiquiti UniFi offers a scalable yet robust solution for large PoE deployments. UniFi PoE switches are available with 8, 16, 24, and 48 ports and perform the function of an Endspan device. They have been designed as the ideal solution for providing power to UniFi Access Points, UniFi Dream Machine (UDM), and UniFi Security Gateway (USG), and other Powered Devices (PDs). In larger networks, providing the electrical wiring and power outlets for multiple access points is impractical when you can use a competent network switch to do the job. The UniFi network switches also are far more convenient than AC PoE injectors as a one-stop solution for power and connectivity.

Non-PoE enabled switches can be used in Power over Ethernet networking. High-performance Uni-Fi standard switches can be used with a Midspan device that provides PoE injection. These devices receive Ethernet connectivity from the standard switch but add DC power to the connecting Ethernet cable to drive power to client devices. Additional space on a rack and expense is required for this arrangement versus a PoE switch.

Ubiquiti UniFi delivers multi-mode PoE connectivity

The output of Ubiquiti PoE network components and devices is available in two distinct modes:

  1. Active Power over Ethernet: With active PoE, the voltage supplied to powered devices can be selected from the three leading standards - PoE (802.3af) PoE+ (802.3at), and PoE++ (802.3bt).

  2. Passive Power over Ethernet: Passive PoE delivers a fixed output voltage, that cannot be altered or negotiated. Typical voltages are 24, 48, or 54 volts.

The switch functionality of UniFi PoE switches can be managed using a UniFi network controller. The network controller oversees the power output modes, matching them to the different networked PDs. The power method of specific switches should be compared with the power requirements of connected PDs.

The PoE switches will have a maximum power consumption that determines the performance of the PoE switch in powering multiple devices. The PoE network switch has an overall power consumption that is then divided among the individual ports. If all ports are used by PDs with high power demand it is possible that the consumption of power would exceed the supply from the PoE switch, so each device’s power requirements must be assessed before connection to the switch.

Power delivery via PoE cables with Ubiquiti UniFi

Ubiquiti Power over Ethernet networking uses 10/100 and Gigabit networking which is delivered over Category 6 cable. The 8 pins in the network switch port correspond to the 4 twisted pairs of an Ethernet cable. The 802.3 PoE standards specify how many of the twisted pairs are used to transmit data or power. The 802.3af and at standards limit the wires used for power transmission to two of the four pairs. There are two methods described for this type of PoE power transfer:

Mode A: transmits power and data on the outer pairs 1,2,3 and 6 with two twisted pairs unused. It is usually used in Endspan PoE where data and power are transmitted from the same source or switch.

Mode B: uses two dedicated wire pairs 4,5,7, and 8 for transmitting power with the unused pairs for data. This is the method for supplying power used by PoE adapters or injectors that drive power into the cable separately to the data source.

[B] Ubiquiti Edge Power leading Ubiquiti supplier

EdgePower is a modular DC Power Supply Unit (PSU) system that can supply Power over Ethernet to compatible routers and switches as well as a range of client devices. These PoE PSE units are rack-mountable, with each delivering up to 150 watts. Optional supplementary PSUs can be added to boost the supplied wattage to 300 watts or be used as a backup to maintain a continual power supply if the primary supply fails. The EfgePower output is designed to remain stable even when switching between modules.

EdgePower delivers an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS), and two PoE ports that provide 24 or 54 volt DC output depending on the model. The PSU can receive AC power or 12-volt battery input. The unit’s output is grounded via chassis screws an RJ45 shield and AC input earthing. The EdgePower module can run reliably for a prolonged period with an in-built fan assisting thermostatic control.

These managed PoE switches can be remotely configured and controlled, with a software user interface. Its proprietary user interface supports easy monitoring of the PSU and connected PDs with remote IP management. A local web-based user interface can also be used. The device can also provide remote alerts in the event of a power outage. Overload protection on these units includes the ability to disable output from the unit and lowering of output voltage whilst maintaining current.

The EdgePower PSU is designed for telecommunications applications including use as a reliable modular power supply for small cell site towers. Given its functionality and performance, the EdgePower PSU is surprisingly cost-effective.

[C] Ubiquiti PoE Power Adapters authorized reseller

Ubiquiti provides an expansive range of performance PoE injectors that can power both proprietary Ubiquiti® powered devices and other non-Ubiquiti products.

These power adapters are essential for robust and reliable midspan PoE applications as they are capable of adding PoE connectivity to a non-PoE Ethernet network. These in-line devices can be connected via Ethernet cable to network switches and drive power to a range of client devices.

Power over Ethernet injectors carry two RJ45 Ethernet ports: one port receives data input from a downstream switch, access point, or base station and the second port pushes the data and power using 802.3af/at power injection. Mains outlet AC power (100 to 240 volts at 50-60 Hz) is used to supply the Power over Ethernet Adapter.

The Ubiquiti PoE adapters deliver DC power at voltages between 15 and 54 volts and current of up to 1.5 amps depending on the model. Most of the PoE ports on this range of PoE injectors provide 2-pair powering delivering DC power via an RJ45 shielded socket on pins 4 and 5 (+) and 7 and 8 (-). Higher power PoE power adapters provide 4-pair powering on pins 1, 2, 4, and 5 (+) and 3.6.7 and 8 (-).

Also, these PoE power adapters have integrated earth grounding and surge protection (difference and common-mode) to protect against Lightning, Electrostatic Discharge (ESD), and other overvoltage or surge events.

[D] Voltage Step-down for Ubiquiti PoE networking from an authorized reseller

Voltage step-down converters are a key inline PoE component for safely delivering power to PDs at the correct voltage and current. Not all Power over Ethernet injectors, switches, and endspans are fully standards-compliant, but a 802.3af adapter can be used to ensure that client devices are powered at the correct voltage according to 802.3af specifications.

Use the Instant 802.3af Adapter to ensure that you have fully compliant 48-volt power delivery with any suitable switch and PD.

Voltage step-down adapters are a useful device for remote-powering sensitive equipment. To prevent overvoltage some users will install a very long cable between switch and device in the expectation of some voltage drop along the line, but an adapter provides consistent performance and reliable power delivery. These units carry two Gigabit RJ45 ports, with a power input of 48 volts and a maximum power output of 24 volts, 0.5 amps. PoE is delivered by passive powering with power delivered over wires 4,5 7, and 8. The Gigabit Ethernet ports ensure high throughput networking, suitable for a range of applications.

This voltage step-down adapter also provides in-built surge and ESD protection with +/-15kV of Ethernet isolation. It is available in outdoor and indoor versions.

[E] Ubiquiti Power over Ethernet Surge Protection - authorized Ubiquiti distributor

Sensitive electronic devices such as those powered through PoE are vulnerable to the effects of sudden overvoltage or surge events. Electrostatic Discharge remains a leading cause of significant damage to electronics and direct or indirect lightning strikes can also cause device failure and network downtime. Though Ubiquiti PoE networking equipment has in-built surge protection, supplementary surge protection devices can be installed within networks to deliver added protection against the effects of transients.

The ETH-SP G2 is a second-generation passive Surge Protection Device (SPD). It is designed to be installed inline and carries two RJ45 ports for cable input/output. Overvoltage on the line will be conducted to the SPD which diverts any overvoltage via an earthing screw that can be connected to an earth wire or metal pole. The ETH-SP can deal with surge voltages between 100 volts per second and 1 kilovolt per microsecond. This plug-and-play device is designed to be easily mounted and is compatible with most Ubiquiti PoE devices.

Why are Ubiquiti PoE products important?

Ubiquiti Power over Ethernet hardware is compatible with the following Ubiquiti PoE products:

Power over Ethernet solutions for Ubiquiti airFiber®

AirFiber is a high-performance wireless broadband internet technology that uses wireless full-duplex point-to-point radio links rather than cables or fiber. These Gigabit-speed long-distance radio links are supported by a proprietary split antenna design with straightforward installation, configuration, and enhancement.

Power over Ethernet solutions for Ubiquiti airMAX®

Ubiquiti airMAX® is another specialist point-to-point and point-to-multipoint wireless networking solution for the outdoor setting. AirMAX® high-capacity, low-latency broadband networks use TDMA technology and include Basestations, and Customer Premise Equipment (CPE).

Power over Ethernet solutions for Ubiquiti EdgeMAX®

Ubiquiti EdgeMax provides powerful Ethernet-based carrier-class networking solutions for indoor and outdoor settings. The robust EdgeMax routers and switches can be used with Power over Ethernet injectors while supporting fast network connectivity with SFP and SFP+. These devices are managed via a proprietary software interface, EdgeOS. EdgeMAX switches and routers can be powered by a 24 volt passive PoE or power adapter via a designated input PoE port.

Power over Ethernet solutions for Ubiquiti mFi®

This machine-to-machine (M2M networking) management system includes hardware and software that is designed to deliver precision monitoring and control for industrial and commercial settings. The system relies on powered mFi sensors, covering motion, temperature, and movement, that relay data for centralized remote control by mFi controller software. Power for the mFi system can be provided by Power over Ethernet via mPort or other Ubiquiti switches.

Power over Ethernet solutions for UniFi® AP

UniFi is an enterprise-level WiFi networking solution providing performance outdoor and indoor access points, routers, and software/cloud control that supports the management of multiple wireless networks. The system is highly modular, flexible, and scalable and PoE adds an additional layer of functionality as APs can be powered in locations where an AC outlet is unavailable. UniFi equipment can be powered using PoE injectors or switches.

Power over Ethernet solutions for Ubiquiti UFiber

Fiber Optic networking technology delivers outstanding network speeds and exceptional performance. Ubiquiti UFiber is a plug-and-play network technology that uses fiber, a global first.

The UFiber system provides all the components to build a cost-effective, efficient, and scalable fiber-optic network with centralized management by a web user interface. This networking system is compatible with Power over Ethernet. For example, the UFiber AE fiber to copper

media converter can be powered effectively by 802.3af PoE.

Frequently asked questions

What is Power over Ethernet?

Power over Ethernet also known as PoE is a technology that enables DC power to be driven to compatible Ethernet devices over two or four of the twisted pairs of Ethernet cable. This powering of client devices takes place simultaneously with bidirectional data exchange. High speed and high-throughput data transfer are supported by this technology with speeds of up to 10 Gigabit per second able to be supported alongside PoE functionality.

PoE provides safe and reliable power transfer over Cat 5, Cat 5e, or Cat 6 cable and can be used in local area networking (LAN). The remote transfer of power can take place over cable lengths of up to 100 meters (328 feet). This removes the need for an additional AC or DC power line and supports a continuously expanding range of applications including the powering of security systems, IP cameras, and domestic lighting.

Standardized PoE provides power to devices safely

Power over Ethernet developed from a variety of experimental and unstandardized “power injection” technologies. The initial versions of PoE had inconsistent results and performance and were capable of damaging powered equipment. The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) took these ad-hoc systems and technologies and developed and published the 802.3 standards and certifications that have provided assurance and widespread adoption. The first and most widely used standard, 802.3af was released in 2003. Further releases of standards in 2008, 2012, and most recently 2018 had increased the level of power delivery and diversified the techniques used to deliver power over twisted pair cables.

PoE technology is still affected by being a collection of ad-hoc technologies that do not all provide intercompatibility or consistent performance. Ubiquiti’s range of intercompatible and 802.3 certified-compliant PoE solutions are excellent solutions for PoE products that can be assessed and combined by end-users easily.

PoE provides targeted power delivery required to sensitive electronics

PoE is not affected by the frequency inconsistencies and irregularities that can come with AC power. It has been designed with built-in power management that prevents over or under voltage of the power supply. Powered devices only draw the power they need. Also, easily available battery backup solutions mean that devices and networks are safeguarded against power interruption. Power over Ethernet also can be managed and configured centrally meaning that the level of power supplied can be adjusted, diverted, or reset.

A flexible and adaptable power system

PoE can be used to deliver power to non-POE compatible devices or integrated into Ethernet networks that do not carry PoE. A range of components and powering levels and methods make this system highly adaptable. Also, Gigabit networking means that contemporary high-definition audiovisual streaming data can be reliably transmitted simultaneously. Basic PoE components as outlined in the original 802.3af standard include:

1. Power Sourcing Equipment (PSE)

These devices, which include switches and controllers can source and supply power to downstream PoE devices. They are usually connected to a battery or AC power outlet and can deliver power at multiple levels of PoE. PSE equipment is designed to detect the connection of a downstream device and assess and deliver power at the right level via connecting Ethernet cables. The powering arrangement that uses PSE is known as End-span. Power over Ethernet switches or PoE switches are network switches that are able to power connected devices within a network as well as routing data. They are a type of PSE.

2. PoE Midspan devices

These devices are also known as Power over Ethernet injectors or PoE adapters. They are added inline to an existing non-PoE network, connected between the network switch and the device(s) to be powered. They carry individual or multiple PoE ports allowing power to be injected into the Ethernet cable to a downstream device. PoE injectors can also be used for targeted power delivery beyond the usual 100 meters (328 feet) limit of PoE.

3. Powered devices (PD)

These are a broad range of electronic devices that are compatible with PoE and able to receive DC power by this method. PDs can receive endspan or midspan power and are usually compliant with one or more of the IEEE 802.3 PoE standards.

4. PoE splitters

PoE splitters are a solution for providing PoE power supply to non-PoE compatible devices. They are a great option for including legacy or low-power devices within PoE networks. Splitters are able to receive power and data on a single cable from a PoE PSE and separate the power and data signals. The power and data are then fed separately into a client device via separate DC power and RJ45 cables.

What are the IEEE 802.3 Power over Ethernet standards?

  • IEEE 802.3af

IEEE 802.3af is also designated PoE and is the first Power over Ethernet standard, released in 2003. It specifies a power delivery of up to 15.4 watts of DC power (44 volts, 350 milliamps). Due to power lost along the cable as heat the minimum guaranteed power delivered is 12.95 watts. Power delivery is limited to 2 of the four twisted pairs of Ethernet cable. PoE also specifies a requirement for PSE to perform a handshake with powered devices before delivering power as well as key connect/disconnect protocols that protect sensitive equipment. Devices that receive power from PoE are known as Type 1 devices and include VoIP phones.

  • IEEE 802.3at

This 2009 standard is also known as PoE+ (PoE Plus). It was devised as an update of the original PoE standard, delivering up to 30 watts of power. 802.3at is backward compatible with 802.3af. Devices that use this power over Ethernet standard are known as Type 2 devices and include access points and security cameras.

  • IEEE 802.3bt

This form of Power over Ethernet is designated PoE++ and is a 2018 release that delivers power over all 4 twisted pairs of Ethernet cable. Using all eight wires for power delivery provides a significant uplift in the power capabilities of this technology. PoE++ is delivered at 2 distinct levels:

  • Type 3 delivers up to 55 watts of power to compatible devices.
  • Type 4 provides up to 100 watts of power to compatible PDs.

What is the best cable for Ubiquiti PoE equipment?

Ubiquiti ToughCable is a specialist type of Ethernet cable that is exclusively owned and manufactured by Ubiquiti. ToughCable is a Category 5e shielded Ethernet cable which has some Category 6 design and performance features.

ToughCable has 8 solid bare copper conducting wires that provide excellent power handling and can support Gigabit Ethernet transmission speeds. Its superior shielding includes a secondary braided shield, anti-crosstalk divider, and drain wire.

It is an industrial-grade cable that is weather resistant making it suitable for outdoor PoE installations and even burial. Another advantage of using ToughCable is its integrated ESD protection.

About PoE Switches

The PoE switch otherwise known as the Power over Ethernet switch uses Power over Ethernet technology to make a highly effective network and power switch. There are different types of PoE switches that include the managed, unmanaged and the 8/12/24/48 port PoE switch among others.

Why Use a PoE Switch?

  1. Flexibility – PoE switches eliminate the need for additional electrical wiring given that they provide power through the Ethernet cable. This makes it easy to position your equipment and devices anywhere in the room. Combined with wireless technology you can practically have a cable-free environment.
  2. Reliability – Provides power from a universal and central compatible source rather than from varied wall adapters making it easy to use an uninterruptible power supply to provide backup.
  3. Cost Efficient – You do not have to purchase and install additional outlets and wires meaning you can save a lot on maintenance and installation expenses.

In conclusion

Ubiquiti has distinguished itself as a manufacturer of a broad range of high-specification PoE solutions. These 802.3af, 802.3at, and 802.3bt compliant devices are designed to provide seamless integration for power delivery in a variety of networks. By purchasing Ubiquiti PoE products and components, the performance and uptime of networks are safeguarded with targeted ESD and surge protection provided in-built in all branded devices and cables.

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