PoE budgets are where installs fail when a switch runs out of power mid-run. This guide explains PoE, PoE+, and PoE++ budgets, the real-world power draw of IR and PTZ cameras, cable length limits for Cat5e and Cat6, and how to size a switch so no port starves at night.
Cable length and the 100 metre rule
Copper Ethernet passes power and data up to 100 metres including patch leads. Beyond that you need a switch mid-run or fibre with a local power source.
A top pick in this category is the Uniview NSW2020-6T-POE-IN Ethernet PoE Switches, available from $119.00. This model delivers the performance and reliability that Florida installers depend on for consistent, high-quality video surveillance.
PoE versus PoE+ power budgets
Standard PoE delivers about 15 watts per port, PoE+ about 30. Cameras with heaters, PTZ motors or white light draw far more than a fixed dome.
- Uniview NSW2020-6T-POE-IN Ethernet PoE Switches ($119.00) — NSW2020-6T-POE-IN Ethernet PoE Switches.
- UNV 4-Port Power over Ethernet (PoE) Switch with 2 Additional Uplink Ports (NSW2020-6T-POE-IN) ($119.00) — Multiple working modes to address your business needs: Normal, Secure and Surveillance Supports port traffic control Support for secure mode: all downlink ports can communicate only with uplink ports Up to 820' (250m) transmission distance on surveillance (extend) mode Supports buffer optimization All metal housing, safe and reliable.
- (B) 8-Port PoE Switch with Long-Range Power & Surge Protection ($152.49) — <section class="product-description"><! Intro -> <section> <h2> (B) 8-Port PoE Switch</h2> <p>If your surveillance system depends on stable power and uninterrupted video, the (B) is built to keep everything running smoothly.
Reading the total power budget
A switch rated for 30 watts per port can still fail if its total budget is 120 watts, so add up every camera plus margin before ordering.
When implementing a poe switch power budget solution, evaluate your existing infrastructure, plan for future expansion, and account for site-specific conditions. The IDS CCTV team can help size, specify, and support your system. Contact our wholesale team →
Recommended products from IDS CCTV
Frequently asked questions
How many cameras can one PoE switch power?
Divide the switch total budget by the real draw of each camera, then keep at least 20 percent headroom for start-up surge.
Can a PTZ camera run on standard PoE?
Most PTZ models need PoE+ or a dedicated power supply because pan, tilt and zoom motors draw more than a fixed camera.
How much does Uniview NSW2020-6T-POE-IN Ethernet PoE Switches cost?
Pricing starts at $119.00. Volume and bundle deals are available. Contact IDS CCTV for a quote →
Can I get help with my poe switch power budget project?
Yes. IDS CCTV provides design assistance, bill-of-materials review, and technical support. Reach out to our team →
