Performance Evaluation of Power over Ethernet in an Ethernet Switch

The trending technology Power over Ethernet (PoE) is a widespread way to send power along with data in a single Ethernet. It uses standard balanced twisted pair cable to send power in an existing Ethernet cable. Devices powered using this technology are Voice-over-Internet (VoIP) telephones, surveillance cameras, wireless access points etc. The technology is more cost effective and can be easily implemented. This paper describes the overview of Power over Ethernet, its methodology, advantages and factors in selecting cable. The paper also gives the factors which influence the performance of PoE system. The PoE using Category 3 or Category 5 cable for power transmission is described.