PoE: Standard vs Non‑Standard

When shopping for PoE switches, you will often encounter the question: “Standard or non‑standard?” This article introduces these two specifications and provides selection guidance.

What are Standard PoE and Non‑Standard PoE

Standard PoE complies with IEEE 802.3af/at/bt protocols, while non‑standard PoE does not follow these industry protocols.

Core Differences

1. A standard PoE switch is equipped with a dedicated PoE controller chip. It will detect whether the connected terminal device supports PoE power receiving before supplying power. Non‑standard PoE has no detection mechanism and delivers power directly.
2. Standard PoE typically outputs 44‑57V. Non‑standard PoE delivers fixed‑voltage output, commonly 12 V or 24 V; 48 V versions are also available for special requirements. Voltage can be measured with a multimeter.

(Multimeter testing for PoE voltage)

How to Choose Between Standard PoE and Non‑Standard PoE

Your choice depends mainly on the required input voltage of your powered devices.

• Select non‑standard PoE if your devices require fixed 12 V or 24 V input.
• Standard PoE is recommended for 48 V powered devices for better safety.

The E‑link mini series standard PoE switches feature boost functionality and accept 12‑48 V DC input.

• Non‑standard 12 V‑output PoE switches: 12 V DC input
• Non‑standard 24 V‑output PoE switches: 12‑24 V DC input

Left: E‑link 24 V Non‑Standard PoE Switch      Right: E‑link 802.3at Standard PoE+ Switch

For standard PoE switches with boost function supporting 12‑48 V wide‑voltage input, total PoE output power ranges from 60 W to 120 W.

Model LNK‑AIMC005GP — IEEE802.3af/at Standard PoE Switch 

Wide input: 12‑48 V DC | Output: 48 V PoE

As a leading supplier in the PoE industry, E‑link provides full‑range products compliant with 802.3at PoE, plus multiple models with 802.3bt PoE++ to meet diverse customer demands. We deliver complete application solutions widely deployed for data transmission across multiple industries. Feel free to contact us for inquiries.