Pros and cons of Industrial GigE cameras with Power over Ethernet (PoE)

In this article you will understand the distinctions between industrial cameras with and without Power over Ethernet (PoE) when choosing the best Gigabit Ethernet camera for your machine vision project. PoE refers to the technology where a CAT6 network cable serves both the camera's power supply and communication needs at the same time.

An article number with a "-P" at the end identifies a camera that has PoE. For instance, our 6.3 mega pixel camera with Power over Ethernet is the MER2-630-18GC-P, whereas the MER2-630-18GC has the same image sensor but no PoE. Every camera type, including PoE and non-PoE, has benefits and drawbacks. They are described below.

Why select an industrial camera with Power over Ethernet?

The easiest way to power your industrial Gigabit Ethernet camera is to use a GigE camera with PoE. For the camera to be powered and to receive pictures, you only need one cable.

Moreover, GeT Cameras typically stocks only GigE cameras with PoE. These cameras have a far shorter lead time as a result. Because you can power the camera using both PoE and the I/O cable, just like you would with the version without PoE, we have only PoE-capable cameras in stock. The lead time will be greater if you wish to order a camera without PoE.

Reach out for more information about the GeT Cameras local Express stock

Why select an industrial camera without Power over Ethernet?

While PoE cameras offer benefits, there are drawbacks as well. To begin with, PoE cameras are longer than non-PoE cameras. Again, let us use the MER2-630-18GC-P as an example.

This camera measures 29x29x40.3 mm (not including the I/O connector). The MER2-630-18GC measures 29x29x29 mm (not including the I/O connector) when it is not powered by PoE. These 11.3mm might be significant for your application involving machine vision.

Second, using PoE to power the camera will generate extra heat, raising the temperature of the camera. The extra heat generated by using Power over Ethernet while using machine vision cameras in warm environments could harm the camera or the application. A camera that is powered by an external source will produce less heat during operation.

Thirdly, you only need a power supply and an I/O cable to connect a non-PoE camera, but to power a camera using PoE, you'll need a PoE Inserter or PoE Switch with a power supply.

Visit our Knowledge Center to find out more about how to power a GigE camera—with or without PoE.