Key findings
- Less cable clutter: Reduce the number of cables by half with PoE technology.
- More flexibility: There is no need to search for sockets, which makes it easier to place devices.
- Centralized power: Manage devices remotely and avoid power outages with PoE switches.
As the name suggests, PoE allows you to send both power and data to your devices over a single Ethernet cable. On paper, this may sound like a niche feature, as most servers, PCs, laptops, and NAS can't be powered over an Ethernet cable. But if your computing environment consists of smart devices, Power over Ethernet can go from somewhat useful to an absolute game-changer—and here are four reasons why you should equip your home lab with PoE technology.
4 Less cable clutter
Why use two cables when you can get by with just one?
The most obvious benefit of a PoE setup is that you have fewer cables around your home. Since most IoT and smart devices require both power and a data signal to function, integrating PoE switches or injectors into your home lab can eliminate the need for plugs or USB ports needed to provide power. So Power over Ethernet halves the number of ports in your home—and that can significantly reduce cable clutter if you have multiple smart devices scattered around.
3 More flexibility in device placement
No more searching for sockets
Even if your house has power outlets on every corner, powering IP cameras and access points can be quite a hassle. Since they are often mounted in hard-to-reach places, you will need to invest in long power supplies for these devices. And if you enjoy building cool projects with the Raspberry Pi and other SBCs, you won't have to constantly search for power outlets when testing your creations.
2 Ability to remotely manage all devices
An easy way to reduce the amount of work required to manage a home lab
If you run your smart home with multiple IoT devices, you'll have to deal with the hassle of flipping the power switches every time you want to turn them on. PoE switches can make this process much easier, as they allow you to turn your devices on or off via a remote connection. What's more, some of the more advanced PoE switches even allow you to monitor the power consumption, voltage, and other aspects of the IoT devices connected to them.
1 Centralized power supply
With a UPS you no longer have to worry about power outages!
Besides the extra mess of wires, one of the biggest downsides to separate power outlets is that you'll be in big trouble if a particular outlet stops working. If your house is as prone to power outages as mine, you'll need to add a backup solution with even more wires if you need constant access to your smart devices.
PoE offers a simple alternative to power outages. All you need to do is connect an uninterruptible power supply to your switch and voilà, you can continue using all devices compatible with PoE technology even during power outages.
Take your home lab performance to the next level with PoE devices
With all the benefits of PoE technology, you may be concerned about the additional cost of integrating Power over Ethernet provisions into your home lab. Unfortunately, PoE-compatible switches can cost a fortune. If you're the proud owner of an ultra-fast home lab, you may need to spend thousands of dollars on a 10GbE PoE switch.
Fortunately, there is also a more cost-effective solution: If you don't mind placing your switch near multiple power outlets and are willing to give up the ability to remotely monitor the IoT devices, PoE injectors may be more for you. Sure, they aren't as feature-rich as PoE switches, but you don't have to worry about burning a hole in your wallet when buying PoE injectors.
