Why You Need a PoE Splitter
Most professional IP cameras support PoE directly — they accept power over the Ethernet cable. But a huge number of cameras on the market are 12V DC powered, especially:
- Budget 2MP/4MP dome cameras
- Older camera models retrofitted into new networks
- PTZ cameras with specific DC input requirements
A PoE splitter solves this: it takes 48V PoE from the switch, splits out the data and converts the power to the DC voltage your camera actually needs.
Common Output Voltages
| Output Voltage | Typical Devices |
|---|---|
| 12V | Most IP cameras, NVRs |
| 5V | USB devices, small sensors |
| 9V | Legacy cameras |
| 24V | PTZ cameras, access control |
Match the splitter output to your camera's DC input — feeding 12V into a 5V device damages it.
Current Rating Matters
A splitter's output current determines how many devices it can power. Common ratings:
- 1A: single small camera
- 1.2A-2A: standard cameras with IR LEDs
- 3A-4A: high-power devices
- 6A (802.3bt models): PTZ or multi-device feeds
Check your camera's actual draw — a camera nameplate of "12V 2A" draws up to 24W, so choose a splitter rated above that with headroom.
Standard vs Non-Standard PoE
Two types of PoE exist in the field:
- Standard PoE (802.3af/at): the switch negotiates power with the device before enabling it.
- Non-standard 48V passive: power is always on; used by some budget switches and injectors.
Choose a splitter that matches your switch. Many of our splitters accept DC 44-57V, which covers both standard and non-standard sources. There are also dedicated non-standard models for 24V systems.
Gigabit vs Fast Ethernet Splitters
Splitters pass data through as well as converting power. If your camera is 4K (8MP) or you need full bandwidth, choose a Gigabit splitter. For standard 2MP-4MP cameras, 100M splitters are sufficient and cheaper.
Waterproof Versions
Outdoor cameras mounted at poles or building exteriors need a waterproof splitter. These are potted with sealed cable glands, rated IP66, and survive rain and humidity.
Recommended Selection Flow
- Identify your camera's DC input voltage
- Add up the total current draw
- Confirm your switch delivers standard or non-standard PoE
- Pick 100M or Gigabit based on camera resolution
- Choose waterproof for outdoor mounting
Final Tip
A splitter combined with a PoE injector is also a great way to power a single 12V camera from a non-PoE router: injector at one end, splitter at the camera. This is the cheapest way to extend and power a remote camera without buying a full PoE switch.
