The Concept:
My goal in this design was to create a network consisting of a Cable Modem, WiFi Access Point, Firewall, Switch, 4 network cameras, and 2 Home Automation systems that would all remain powered on in the event of a power outage. The challenge was that NONE of my devices were PoE capable. The solution below will allow you to add Power over Ethernet to ANY 5volt or 12volt device using the devices I've listed below, even if you have a legacy non-PoE device! I've included descriptions on how each device is used below the diagram.
Diagram of the solution:
Power over Ethernet Products used above:
A - CyberPower UPS 500VA 300W
This CyberPower UPS has 3 outlets that are battery powered. One power outlet goes to my Firewall, and another to my LAN switch. The last outlet powers my PoE Injector, which feeds 4 cameras, a WiFi access point, a Smartthings Hub, and a Hue Bridge. Since the PoE injector is wired to the UPS, each of those 8 devices will remain powered during a power outage.
B - PoE Injector 8-port 48volt/60watt
This device is very basic. It includes 8 LAN ports (labeld E1-E8 above) and 8 PoE ports (labeled P1-P8 above). It is internally wired in a way that the 48volt power supply injects power over the unused CAT6 pins 4&5 for + and 7&8 for -. THIS DEVICE IS NOT A SWITCH. As you can see in the diagram above, I and feeding 4 of the ports from my LAN switch, 2 from my Firewall, and 2 from my WiFi Access Point. You do not have to follow this exact design, and could feed all 8 PoE injector ports from your LAN switch if you'd like. I only chose to do it this way to make my network more secure. Once you feed the injector, you'll need to run a CAT6 cable from the cooresponding PoE port to your remote device location. DO NOT PLUG THIS CABLE DIRECTLY INTO YOUR REMOTE DEVICE! If you do, you will likely fry it, as it will receive the entire 48volts. That is where the next part of the design (PoE Splitters) comes into play.
C - PoE Splitter Power Over Ethernet 48V to 12V 2A
Connect the CAT6 cable from your PoE injector into this splitter to feed a remote device that requires 12volts, such as a WiFi Router or maybe a Cable Modem. For devices with a lower voltage requirement, use the 5volt splitter below. The output side of the splitter provides a RJ45 wire and a separate power wire to your device.
D - PoE Splitter Power Over Ethernet 48V to 5V 2.5A
The 5volt splitter can power most network cameras, and other small devices.
E - Red CAT6 Cables 10-pack
I chose to use red CAT6 cables to feed my PoE injector, so I can clearly trace them in my rack.
F - Power Converter Plug 5-Pack (5.5mm x 2.1mm to 3.5mm x 1.35mm)
The splitters above may require a converter plug head to fit your device.
Summary:
The design above is to provide PoE for non-PoE devices. While it does not require a UPS or Firewall, they are shown in the diagram above to provide a better understanding on methods of deployment. This design utilizes passive PoE, which is much cheaper than buying an active PoE switch and native PoE devices.
