Understanding Power over Ethernet (PoE) and Power over Ethernet Plus (PoE+)

Power over Ethernet (PoE) is a way to wire power and internet together to select Ring devices like Stick Up Cam Elite and Video Doorbell Elite.

Power over Ethernet (PoE)

PoE allows you to supply power to a networking device using the same cable that transmits the data. If you connect a PoE-enabled Ring device to a PoE-capable switch, router, or injector, the device will detect the power and draw what it needs. This means you won't have to connect the device to a standard power outlet for it to work. Ring PoE devices need CAT5 cables or higher.

Do PoE devices work with non-PoE routers?

Yes. If you connect a non-PoE router to a PoE device it will provide networking as usual, but the device will need another source of power to work.

Can do you mix PoE and non-PoE devices in your network?

Yes, although the non-PoE devices will require a separate power source.

How do you know if your router is capable of producing PoE?

You'll need to check your router’s model number and specifications against the manufacturer’s documentation to confirm whether it can supply PoE. Many routers used in homes do not provide PoE, so in most cases a PoE-capable switch or injector is required.

Are there any risks with using PoE with my Ring device?

No. PoE can be used with any Ring devices that are PoE-enabled such as Stick Up Cam Elite. All current and future Ring products with PoE capability are engineered to IEEE 802.3af and 802.3at standards. If you can connect your network cables, you should have no difficulty connecting your device to a PoE-capable switch, router, or injector and having it draw power.

Does hooking up a PoE connection require any special electrical knowledge?

No. You will connect your PoE connection at the same time as you hook up your network cables as both power and data are routed through the same cable.

Power Over Ethernet Plus (PoE+)

Power over Ethernet Plus (PoE+) is an updated version of PoE that delivers more power over the same type of Ethernet cable. It follows the IEEE 802.3at standard and provides up to 30 watts of power, compared to the 15.4 watts that standard PoE (802.3af) provides.

What is the difference between PoE and PoE+?

PoE provides up to 15.4 watts of power while PoE+ can deliver up to 30 watts. This makes PoE+ suitable for devices that need more power, such as 4K security cameras or other high-performance networking devices.

Do Ring devices support PoE+?

Only certain Ring devices are designed to use PoE+. Other Ring devices with PoE capability follow the standard IEEE 802.3af (PoE) specification and will not draw additional power from a PoE+ connection.

Is PoE+ harder to set up than PoE?

No. PoE+ uses the same type of Ethernet cabling and setup process as standard PoE. If your switch or injector is PoE+ capable, your Ring device will automatically detect and draw the appropriate amount of power.

What is the maximum cable length for PoE power and data?

The maximum recommended cable length is 100 meters (328 ft) for both PoE and PoE+. Beyond this distance, power loss or signal issues may occur.

What cable type should I use for PoE cameras?

Using low-quality or overly long Ethernet cables can lead to voltage drops or signal loss. To ensure reliable performance, use CAT5e or higher (preferably CAT6), especially for runs close to the 100-meter (328 ft) maximum.

Why does my camera restart intermittently?

This usually happens when the device is receiving inconsistent voltage. Common causes include:

• An inadequate power supply.
• Cable runs that are too long.
• Poor-quality connectors or damaged cables.

Why isn’t my PoE camera powering on?

Some common reasons include:

• Using a non-PoE switch or router.
• A cable run exceeding 100 meters.
• A faulty Ethernet cable or connector.

To troubleshoot, test the device with a known good PoE or PoE+ switch and a certified CAT5e or CAT6 cable.