What is the typical power output of a PoE splitter?

A PoE splitter extracts power from a PoE-enabled Ethernet cable (typically 48V–57V DC) and converts it to a lower voltage suitable for non-PoE devices. The power output of a PoE splitter depends on the PoE standard it supports (IEEE 802.3af, 802.3at, or 802.3bt).

1. Standard Power Output Levels of PoE Splitters

PoE splitters commonly provide DC output at different voltages, such as 5V, 9V, 12V, and 24V, depending on the needs of the connected device.

2. Common PoE Splitter Output Configurations

(a) 5V Output (Low-Power Devices)

Typically used for small electronics, such as:

--- Raspberry Pi & single-board computers

--- IoT sensors

--- USB-powered devices

Draws power from PoE (802.3af) or PoE+ (802.3at) sources.

(b) 9V Output (Medium-Power Devices)

Suitable for some networking devices and embedded controllers, including:

--- Certain industrial sensors

--- Older access points

--- Custom-built network equipment

(c) 12V Output (Standard Network Devices)

The most common output for PoE splitters.

Compatible with many non-PoE networking devices, such as:

--- IP cameras

--- VoIP phones

--- Network media converters

--- Digital signage players

(d) 24V Output (High-Power Devices)

Used for larger networking devices, including:

--- Advanced wireless access points

--- PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) security cameras

--- Industrial equipment

(e) 48V Output (High-Power Applications)

Requires PoE++ (802.3bt Type 3 or Type 4) power sources.

Suitable for enterprise-grade devices, including:

--- High-performance Wi-Fi 6 access points

--- Digital kiosks and interactive displays

--- Smart lighting systems

3. How to Choose the Right PoE Splitter

Step 1: Determine Your Device's Power Requirements

--- Check the voltage and wattage needed by your non-PoE device (e.g., does it require 12V DC at 1A?).

Step 2: Match the PoE Standard

--- If your PoE switch or injector supports 802.3af (15.4W), you need a low-power splitter.

--- If your device needs more than 12.95W, choose a PoE+ (802.3at) splitter.

--- For power-hungry devices (above 25.5W), use a PoE++ (802.3bt) splitter.

Step 3: Ensure the Connector Fits

--- Most splitters have a DC barrel plug (5.5mm x 2.1mm or 5.5mm x 2.5mm).

--- Some high-power models support terminal block outputs for industrial use.

Conclusion

The typical power output of a PoE splitter depends on the PoE standard it supports and the voltage required by the connected device. Most splitters output 5V, 9V, 12V, or 24V, making them suitable for a wide range of networking, IoT, and industrial applications. Selecting the right PoE splitter ensures optimal performance and efficient power distribution for your devices.