In recent years, domestic operators have effectively expanded WLAN networks as a complement to 3G in high-traffic areas such as airports, luxury hotels, commercial buildings, and university campuses, driving rapid development of WLAN in China.
In a WLAN network, the reliable power supply of an Access Point (AP) is crucial for ensuring the security and stable operation of the device. Currently, APs are powered using traditional methods, dedicated power supplies, or POE (Power over Ethernet). Among these, POE switch-based power supply has emerged as the most efficient solution for powering APs.
Traditional AP power supply methods come with hidden risks. In early WLAN setups, most APs used power adapters that directly connected to the 220V power source. However, when APs were installed in hard-to-reach locations like ceilings, corridor walls, or outdoors, they often had to rely on extended power sockets, which posed safety concerns.
The traditional power setup also presents reliability issues. The availability of power depends on business hours, leading to situations where power might be cut off during non-business times, or manually unplugged in some areas. These problems significantly impact the stability of APs and increase maintenance challenges.
To ensure continuous power and reduce failure rates caused by power issues, operators should consider using professional power supplies or POE for remote power delivery. While professional power solutions can improve reliability, their deployment is often difficult due to AP placement, and they tend to be costly. Therefore, POE remote power supply has become the preferred choice for WLAN construction.
There are two main ways to deliver power remotely via POE: through a POE module or a POE switch. A POE switch integrates the power function into a standard Ethernet switch, allowing direct power delivery through its ports. This approach simplifies wiring and enhances manageability.
The IEEE 802.3af standard was the first international specification for Power over Ethernet, enabling power delivery over standard network cables. It extends the existing Ethernet standard, making it possible to power devices through the same cable that carries data.
However, using a POE module introduces additional points of failure. Each module is a separate unit that requires its own power and must combine data and power signals before sending them to the AP. According to operator experience, POE modules are prone to failure, especially during thunderstorms, which can disrupt AP power supply.
POE switches offer significant advantages. By embedding the POE module within the access switch, they provide integrated power and data delivery, improving manageability, reliability, and efficiency. Compared to standalone POE modules, POE switches reduce the number of failure points and simplify the wiring system.
One key benefit is cost savings. In real-world WLAN deployments, APs are often placed in areas where AC power is not easily accessible. Eliminating the need for local power sources for hundreds or even thousands of APs reduces deployment costs and improves manageability. With a POE switch, each AP only needs one cable instead of two.
Installation and management are also easier. As long as an Ethernet connection is available, operators can power and connect APs effortlessly. Administrators can monitor and control APs through the POE switch, adjusting power delivery based on demand and saving energy.
Safety and reliability are further enhanced. APs can be powered from up to 100 meters away via the access switch, eliminating the risks associated with local power sources. The POE switch can selectively power devices only when needed, reducing the risk of electrical leakage. Built-in POE functionality in switches also prevents new failure points caused by external modules.
With the maturation of 802.11n technology, the power requirements for APs have increased significantly. The IEEE 802.3af standard provides 15.4W per port, but 802.11n APs typically require more power. This has led to the adoption of POE+ standards, which provide higher power output per port. Leading manufacturers like Cisco and H3C now offer switches supporting POE+.
As 802.11n networks expand, POE+ switches will become the mainstream choice. In WLAN environments, POE switch-based power delivery for APs will continue to be the optimal solution, offering improved performance, reliability, and scalability.
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