PoE Cables for Low Voltage Applications: 5 Reasons

Multiple PoE Cables for Low Voltage Applications plugged into a machine

With so many types of technology available in the world, it makes sense that different ones would require different amounts of electricity to function, as well as ways to receive those varying levels of electrical power to operate as efficiently as possible. In the resource below, our team of passionate technology experts from the C&C Technology Group will explore the basics you should understand about PoE cables and five key reasons why they are an excellent option for low voltage applications.

Please continue for more information on the topic. Also, consider exploring the wide range of other great resources on our blog, along with a wide selection of fantastic tech tip videos covering key issues ranging from Angled Patch Panels to High-Density Jacks (HDJ) and much more.

Related: What is PoE Lighting? 6 Best Power over Ethernet (PoE) Lighting Options

PoE Cables: The Basics to Note

In short, power-over-ethernet, or POE, refers to technology that transfers electrical power to a device- such as wireless access points (like WiFi routers), VoIP phones, IP cameras, and more- via a twisted pair of ethernet cables, along with the data that ethernet cables typically carry. Basically, it enables a device to receive data connections and electrical power without having to rely on a separate cable for each one. 

As PoE cables have become more advanced over time, they have naturally developed into a fantastic option for those needing an easy and efficient way to supply data and electrical power to various devices. In general, PoE cables provide heightened levels of safety, flexibility, scalability, and reliability to instillations while also helping businesses save time and money by reducing the need for separate installations of traditional cabling for electric power. 

Depending on the type of PoE cable in question, it may transfer between 10, 100, or 1000 Mbps of data to a piece of equipment. It may also transfer 15W, 30W, 60W, or even 90W of power.

Five Reasons to Consider PoE Cables for Low Voltage Applications

PoE cables are especially beneficial when it comes to linking low voltage applications together. There are several reasons why people should sincerely consider leveraging them to power their low voltage equipment. While we could talk about many of these benefits here, we wouldn’t have the time to cover them in detail given the short length of this article. Instead, we’ll focus on the five reasons people should leverage PoE cables for their low voltage applications.

1. They Open Up Space Within the Built Environment

By leveraging PoE cables to supply power and data to low voltage applications, you can drastically decrease the need for electrical closets, other power cables, and various other electrical hardware. This means you won’t have to surrender space to store copious amounts of electrical wires and plugs. Instead, you can use this free space to create additional storage areas for other supplies or even open the areas up to add more space to the main building.

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2. They Lower Capital Expenses and Operational Costs

We already mentioned how PoE cables could significantly reduce the number of wires needed to provide power to low voltage devices to save space. However, this also substantially decreases up-front capital, operational expenses, and overall maintenance costs. Also, many PoE cables run on DC power, which can save on energy costs and yield up to 20% less power loss than AC power. 

When leveraged alongside a smart building network, low voltage applications with PoE cabling can also increase the overall asset value of the building they are used in. PoE cables also ensure the building is ready for future communication technology implementation.

Related: How Do Automatic Transfer Switches (ATS) Work?

3. They Reduce Utility Consumption and Environmental Impact

We noted some financial benefits that come with leveraging PoE cables alongside DC power, but let’s also take a moment to explore the benefits it has on utility consumption and environmental impacts. 

DC power can help drastically reduce energy waste by as much as 45% and decrease energy usage by up to 50% when leveraged correctly within a building’s power ecosystem. PoE-connected systems can also efficiently track other types of utility consumption separate from power, such as water. This critical information can help operation staff and building managers understand the needs and habits of employees when it comes to essential utilities.

4. They Enable Better Cloud Services Control and Converged Applications

Devices powered by 90-watt PoE cables enable more effective IT-OT convergence because they create an end-to-end solution that an IT control center can easily manage. The convergence can help decrease operating costs while allowing intelligent cloud service control. It also makes it easier for IT and operations teams to work together to solve connectivity issues while making it easier to connect more applications. 

5. They Can Enhance Occupant Satisfaction

By leveraging PoE cables, people can seamlessly install effective smart networks within their buildings and leverages specialized pieces of technology to create a better and more stable work environment for employees. For example, businesses can connect a smart thermostat to automatic shades with PoE cables to help keep the building at a stable temperature throughout the day without requiring significant adjustments to the thermostat or AC performance.

This elevated level of climate control can be a significant boon for employees, but it can also help ensure that critical pieces of technology don’t overheat. It also allows for more fully automated lighting and door control throughout the building, which can be especially beneficial in highly populated areas. 

Related: Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS): How it Works

A bundle of blue cat6 ethernet cable plugged in

Final Thoughts on PoE Cables & Low Voltage

Our passionate tech team at the C&C Technology Group hopes that the above article has helped you understand the various advantages of leveraging PoE cables to power your low voltage electrical applications going forward. Doing so can help save a lot of space, time, money, and more, so consider making the switch to PoE today!

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Last Updated on August 2, 2022 by Josh Mahan

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