What is the maximum distance a PoE splitter can work from the source?

The maximum distance a PoE splitter can work from the source (PoE switch or injector) depends on multiple factors, including Ethernet cable length, PoE standard, power loss, and cable quality.

1. Standard PoE Distance Limits

By default, Power over Ethernet (PoE) follows the same distance limit as standard Ethernet:

100 meters (328 feet) is the standard limit for PoE over Cat5e/Cat6 Ethernet cables.

After 100m, voltage drops and data transmission becomes unreliable.

2. Extending PoE Splitter Distance Beyond 100m

If you need to place a PoE splitter more than 100 meters from the PoE switch or injector, you can use PoE extenders or fiber converters.

Option 1: PoE Extenders (for 200m–300m)

--- A PoE extender (also called a repeater) regenerates both power and data, allowing an extra 100 meters per extender.

Example setup:

--- PoE switch → 100m cable → PoE extender → 100m cable → PoE splitter.

Max distance: Up to 300m using multiple extenders.

Best for: IP cameras, access points, IoT devices in large areas.

Option 2: PoE Over Fiber (for 500m–20km)

--- If you need longer distances, convert PoE to fiber using PoE-to-fiber media converters.

Example setup:

--- PoE switch → Fiber optic cable (up to 20km) → Fiber-to-PoE converter → PoE splitter.

Best for: Outdoor surveillance, industrial networking, large campuses.

3. Factors Affecting PoE Splitter Distance

Even within 100m, certain conditions can reduce effective PoE transmission:

(a) Cable Type and Quality

--- Cat5e: Works well up to 100m but may cause slight voltage drop.

--- Cat6/Cat6a: Better power efficiency and less signal loss over 100m.

--- Cat7/Cat8: Supports even better transmission with minimal power loss.

(b) Power Load

--- Higher power devices (e.g., PTZ cameras, Wi-Fi 6 APs) consume more power.

--- If the PoE splitter needs near-max power (e.g., 25.5W for PoE+), the actual usable distance may drop to 80–90m.

(c) Environmental Factors

--- High temperatures increase resistance, slightly reducing max distance.

--- Poor cable routing (e.g., near electrical wires) can cause interference.

4. Conclusion: How Far Can a PoE Splitter Work?

Maximum standard distance: 100m (328 feet) using Cat5e/Cat6 Ethernet.

Extended distances:

--- 200m–300m using PoE extenders.

--- 500m–20km using fiber optic PoE solutions.