A Complete Guide To POE Cameras

POE cameras are shorthand for "Power Over Ethernet" cameras. With POE technology, a single Ethernet cable may supply data and power to a device. Without Power over Ethernet, two cables would have to be run: one for data and another for electricity. 

The installation and maintenance costs associated with running additional lines are high. The ability to only need to run one cable does a lot. Using POE technology, network cameras (IP cameras) may receive data and power from a single connection. 

Remember that not all IP cameras are POE surveillance cameras. IP cameras (including POE cameras) can be utilized independently. In contrast, analog CCTV cameras need a DVR to connect to a network and convert their analog signal to IP.

POE Jargon You Should Know

  • POE Intensity: This indicates how much power can be sent through each port.
  • POE Class: The maximum power allocated to a POE device on a POE switch.
  • POE Budget: The most energy that a POE device can use.

You'll need to know the number and classification of powered devices to choose the right network switch for your needs. Remember that some devices support only "passive POE," a non-standard technology that requires a special POE injector to interact with your network. 

Passive POE is not a standard in the market. Hence, improper installation of a POE camera system could lead to incompatibilities and wastage of money. 

What Are The Advantages Of Using POE Cameras?

Having a single cable does double duty as a data and power connection helps reduce infrastructure costs and installation time. Having two separate lines installed to reach the same destination doubles the time and materials required to wire the building. 

As a bonus, conventional POE allows power to be transmitted from the camera to the source over distances of up to 100 meters (about 328 feet). IP cameras have far superior resolution than their analog predecessors. 

The current state of the art in analog cameras offers a maximum resolution of 1080p. IP cameras are required for higher quality video, such as 4K UHD resolution, but 1080p is still considered HD resolution.

Features of a POE Camera That You Should Prioritize

You may find POE surveillance cameras equipped with various functions; the ones that matter most will depend on your specific demands and objectives. However, for most consumers, these are the top four aspects to focus on.  

1 Perfect Focus

The surveillance footage captured by your POE cam will look better if the resolution is increased. Think about the frame rate, or fps, as well. The quality of video files can be improved by increasing the frame rate.

2 Night Vision

With night vision, you can examine gloomy security footage. POE cameras have variable night vision ranges. Check the camera's technical parameters to ensure the night vision works at the required distance if needed.

3 Visibility Area

The angle of view your camera captures will change depending on several factors. Your camera's zoom function is crucial to the field of view it can capture—types of zoom assistance range from optical to digital to manual to motorized. 

4 Remote Login

The capacity to promptly address issues and deter criminal activity is essential to any surveillance system. Instant remote access to your POE cameras is necessary at home or the business workplace. 

Conclusion

Depending on your needs and goals, You should also consider whether or not the POE camera supports sound detection, MicroSD cards, an outdoor rating, and audio (primarily for interior cameras). Consider getting a camera with a varifocal lens. Get a POE surveillance camera from Backstreet, as we offer free mobile apps with useful features like mobile notifications. Get amazing offers on online purchases.