Understanding PoE, PoE+, PoE++, and 4PPoE (UPoE/High Power PoE)

---

---

Power over Ethernet (PoE) technology has revolutionized how we power devices, providing a convenient and efficient way to deliver power and data over standard Ethernet cables. In this blog, we’ll delve into the types of PoE standards: PoE, PoE+, PoE++, and 4PPoE, highlighting their specifications, supported devices, and practical applications.

PoE (IEEE 802.3af)

• PD Min. Power Per Port: 12.95W

• PSE Max. Power Per Port: 15.4W

• Energized Pairs: 2-pair Cat6

• Supported Devices: Static surveillance cameras, VoIP phones, wireless access points

PoE was the first standardized version, providing sufficient power for devices like VoIP phones and security cameras. With its capability to deliver power over two pairs of wires in a standard Ethernet cable, PoE is a cost-effective solution for low-power devices.

PoE+ (IEEE 802.3at)

• PD Min. Power Per Port: 25W

• PSE Max. Power Per Port: 30W

• Energized Pairs: 2-pair Cat6

• Supported Devices: PTZ cameras, video IP phones, alarm systems

The introduction of PoE+ increased the power available, making it suitable for more demanding devices like pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) cameras and advanced video phones. This standard also maintains the use of two pairs of wiring, while delivering more than double the power of the original PoE.

PoE++ (IEEE 802.3bt)

• PD Min. Power Per Port: 51W

• PSE Max. Power Per Port: 60W

• Energized Pairs: 4-pair Cat6A

• Supported Devices: Video conferencing equipment, multi-radio wireless access points

PoE++ takes a significant leap by using all four pairs in a cable, providing enough power for devices that require higher consumption, such as advanced video conferencing systems and multi-radio access points. This standard is ideal for modern applications that demand high bandwidth and power.

4PPoE (IEEE 802.3bt)

• PD Min. Power Per Port: 71W

• PSE Max. Power Per Port: 90W

• Energized Pairs: 4-pair Cat6A

• Supported Devices: Laptops, flat screens

Also referred to as High Power PoE or UPoE, 4PPoE can deliver even more power to support devices like laptops and large displays. This capability opens up new possibilities in power delivery for commercial environments where powering larger devices over a network is essential.

Summary of Differences

Name	IEEE Standard	PD Min. Power Per Port	PSE Max. Power Per Port	Energized Pairs	Supported Devices
PoE	IEEE 802.3af	12.95W	15.4W	2-pair Cat6	Static surveillance cameras, VoIP phones, wireless access points
PoE+	IEEE 802.3at	25W	30W	2-pair Cat6	PTZ cameras, video IP phones, alarm systems
PoE++	IEEE 802.3bt	51W	60W	4-pair Cat6A	Video conferencing equipment, multi-radio wireless access points
4PPoE	IEEEE 802.3bt	71W	90W	4-pair Cat6A	Laptops, flat screens

Understanding the differences between PoE, PoE+, PoE++, and 4PPoE is crucial for anyone involved in network infrastructure planning or device deployment. By choosing the right PoE standard, businesses can optimize their network efficiency and ensure that their devices have the power they need to operate effectively. Whether you’re powering a simple VoIP phone or a sophisticated video conferencing system, there’s a PoE solution tailored to your needs.