PoE adapters, also called PoE injectors, deliver power and data to a network device over a single Ethernet cable. They suit access points, IP cameras and wireless bridges installed where there is no PoE switch or nearby socket. Our range includes over 10 models, with adapters from Cisco, Ubiquiti, D-Link and Zyxel among them.
How to choose a PoE adapter
Standard and power. Start by checking how many watts your device needs and which standard it supports: IEEE 802.3af (PoE), 802.3at (PoE+) or 802.3bt (PoE++). The adapter must supply at least the power the device requires. With standard PoE a higher-rated adapter causes no problems, because the device draws only what it needs.
Standard or passive PoE. Standard PoE negotiates with the device before sending power, so it will not damage equipment that lacks PoE support. Passive PoE sends a fixed voltage without negotiation, so the voltage must match the device exactly. Some Ubiquiti devices use passive 24 V power, so read your device's specification before buying.
Speed and cable length. If your network runs at gigabit speed, choose a gigabit adapter, as a 10/100 model limits the link to 100 Mbps. The total Ethernet cable length, including the stretch from the adapter to the device, should not exceed 100 m.
Operating conditions. Our range includes adapters with an operating temperature listed as 0 to 50 °C or 10 to 40 °C, and a storage temperature reaching from -25 to 65 °C. Permitted operating humidity is given as 5 to 90%. Most PoE adapters are made for indoor use, so outdoors they need a weatherproof enclosure.
Number of devices. One adapter normally powers one device. If you need to power several cameras or access points, a PoE switch is often more convenient, while adapters cover single devices placed far from the switch.
Brands we carry
- Cisco: known for enterprise network equipment such as switches, routers and access points, so its adapters are useful for extending an existing Cisco network.
- Ubiquiti: makes the UniFi and airMAX product lines, and its adapters are meant for powering access points and wireless bridges from these systems.
- Extreme Networks: specialises in enterprise switching and wireless networking.
- D-Link and Zyxel: known for networking equipment for homes and small businesses, so their adapters suit access points and cameras in smaller networks.
Also in our range: Delock.
PoE adapter FAQ
What is a PoE adapter and what is it used for?
A PoE adapter adds power to an Ethernet cable, so the device needs no separate power supply. It is used for access points, IP cameras and other network devices when the switch has no PoE or the device is far from a socket.
Can I use any PoE adapter with my device?
Not always. The standard must match and the power must be sufficient, and with passive PoE the voltage must match as well. A wrong voltage can damage the device, so check its specification first.
How long can the cable be with a PoE adapter?
A standard Ethernet cable can run up to 100 m in total, counting the stretch from the switch to the adapter and from the adapter to the device. A longer run may reduce the speed or leave the device underpowered.
Do I need a PoE adapter if my switch already supports PoE?
Usually not, because the switch itself powers such a device. An adapter is useful when the switch has no PoE or its power is not enough for a particular device. Compare the switch port's power output with what the device needs before buying.
