Passive Power over Ethernet (PoE) is a non-standardised technology utilised in networking to deliver both data and electrical power to devices using a single Ethernet cable. Passive PoE differs from active PoE in that it constantly sends power over the Ethernet cable regardless of the device's needs. This means that the receiving device must be designed to handle the incoming power correctly to avoid potential damage. Passive PoE is typically used for devices that have low power requirements, such as IP cameras, access points, and network switches. It is a cost-effective solution as it eliminates the need for separate power and data cables, reducing installation time and costs. However, it's crucial to ensure compatibility between the devices and the PoE injector to prevent damage. The absence of a negotiation phase in passive PoE means the injector doesn't verify whether the connected device can handle the power level before sending it.
As the technology does not follow a standard, checking device voltage is essential. Values provided below are general figures.