StarTech.com 4 Port Gigabit Midspan - PoE+ Injector - 802.3at and 802.3af

Power over Ethernet (PoE) is one of the most transformative technologies for modern network deployments, enabling devices to receive both power and data over a single Ethernet cable. The StarTech.com 4 Port Gigabit Midspan - PoE+ Injector - 802.3at and 802.3af is engineered to simplify this process, giving you a reliable, scalable solution that fits between a traditional switch and your PoE devices. Designed with small-to-medium networks in mind, this midspan injector injects power into Ethernet cables while preserving full gigabit data throughput on all four ports. It removes the need for expensive PoE-capable switches in many scenarios, allowing you to retrofit or expand your network with minimal disruption. Whether you’re deploying IP cameras for security, wireless access points for guest and employee connectivity, VoIP phones, or other PoE-enabled devices, this injector delivers a flexible, cost-effective approach to power distribution that scales with your business. The device adheres to IEEE 802.3af (PoE) and IEEE 802.3at (PoE+) standards, ensuring broad compatibility with devices on the market today and a straightforward path to future-proofing as your network grows. Expect easy setup, robust performance, and efficient power delivery that helps reduce clutter, simplify maintenance, and keep your network running smoothly around the clock.

• Power and data in one pass: The injector combines data transmission and electrical power on four dedicated Ethernet lines, enabling native PoE support for four devices without changing your existing network switches. This reduces wiring complexity, minimizes the number of wall outlets needed, and simplifies future expansions as you add cameras or wireless access points.
• IEEE 802.3af and 802.3at compatibility: By supporting both PoE and PoE+ standards, the StarTech midspan can power a broad spectrum of devices—from low-power IP phones to high-demand HD cameras—without requiring extra adapters or separate power supplies. Auto-negotiation ensures devices receive the correct voltage and current safely, protecting both the injector and connected equipment.
• 4 Gigabit PoE+ ports: Each of the four ports delivers gigabit-level data throughput and PoE+ power where the endpoint requires it, allowing high-bandwidth devices to operate smoothly, with minimal latency and jitter, even when multiple devices are active. The design emphasizes reliable performance in busy network environments, making it suitable for classrooms, offices, retail storefronts, and industrial settings.
• Plug-and-play, non-blocking performance: No complex configuration is needed. Simply connect your uplink switch, plug in the injector, and attach PoE devices. The midspan works transparently to your network, ensuring stable performance in high-demand environments and allowing IT teams to deploy PoE devices quickly without downtime.
• Compact, durable midspan form factor: The compact enclosure fits easily into crowded racks, telecom closets, or on a desk, while its rugged construction withstands daily use and continuous operation. This makes it an ideal choice for space-constrained deployments, temporary installations, or seasonal expansions where a full PoE-capable switch would be excessive.

Technical Details of StarTech.com 4 Port Gigabit Midspan - PoE+ Injector

• Standards: IEEE 802.3af (PoE) and IEEE 802.3at (PoE+) compliant, enabling a broad range of PoE devices and future-proofing your investment.
• Ports: 4 PoE+ output ports with a dedicated uplink/input path for power and data injection to connected devices.
• Data rate: Gigabit Ethernet per port, supporting high-definition video, fast data transfers, and low-latency communications across all connected devices.
• Power delivery: Delivers PoE or PoE+ power to connected devices; power budgeting is managed through IEEE negotiation between the injector and each device.
• Connectors: RJ-45 connectors for both input (uplink) and output (PoE) connections.
• Power input: External AC power supply required; designed for compatibility with standard regional outlets and typical office environments.
• Operating environment: Suitable for desktop use, wall-mount, or rack-mount placements; built to operate reliably in commercial settings with adequate ventilation.
• Safety and compliance: Certified to industry standards (CE, FCC, RoHS) with protections to guard against short circuits and overload conditions.

How to Install StarTech.com 4 Port Gigabit Midspan - PoE+ Injector

• Choose a suitable location near your network equipment and a reliable power source with adequate ventilation to prevent overheating during extended operation.
• Connect the uplink switch or router to the injector’s input port using a standard Ethernet cable, ensuring the link is stable before powering devices.
• Attach PoE-enabled devices to the four PoE output ports using separate Ethernet cables, mapping each device to its dedicated port for clear identification and troubleshooting.
• Plug the injector into a powered wall outlet or a power strip with surge protection; observe the LED indicators to confirm proper operation and active PoE delivery to connected devices.
• If you plan to install the unit in a rack or telecom cabinet, secure it using appropriate mounting hardware and route cables neatly to minimize strain and maintain airflow.
• Test all connected devices to verify data connectivity and power delivery. If a device does not power on, recheck connections and ensure the device is PoE/PoE+ compatible and within the injector’s power capabilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Q: What is a PoE midspan injector?

  A: A PoE midspan injector sits between a standard network switch and PoE-enabled devices, adding power over Ethernet to the data stream so devices can receive both data and power over a single Ethernet cable.

• Q: Does this StarTech injector power both data and power on a single cable?

  A: Yes, it injects PoE power into the Ethernet cable while passing data from the uplink switch, enabling four PoE-capable devices to operate without requiring a PoE-capable switch on port.

• Q: Which devices are compatible?

  A: Compatible with PoE and PoE+ devices that conform to IEEE 802.3af/at standards, such as IP cameras, wireless access points, VoIP phones, and other PoE-enabled equipment.

• Q: Do I need special software to use this injector?

  A: No. This is a plug-and-play midspan injector; no software or configuration is required for standard deployments.

• Q: Can I connect multiple PoE devices to a single injector?

  A: Yes. You can connect up to four PoE devices to the four output ports, provided the total power demand remains within the injector’s capability and compatible with your network’s power budget.

• Q: Is external cooling or ventilation necessary for continuous operation?

  A: Adequate ventilation is recommended, especially in enclosed cabinets or high-traffic installations, to maintain optimal performance and longevity.