Which technology allows network cables to deliver electrical power to devices?

Power over Ethernet (PoE) is the technology that enables network cables to deliver electrical power to devices alongside data transmission. This capability is particularly beneficial for devices such as IP cameras, VoIP phones, and wireless access points, allowing them to receive both power and data over a single Ethernet cable.

The core principle of PoE utilizes the existing infrastructure of Ethernet cabling, which simplifies network deployment by eliminating the need for separate power cables. PoE comes in various standards, including IEEE 802.3af, 802.3at, and 802.3bt, which define the amount of power that can be delivered.

In contrast, fiber optic transmission focuses solely on data transfer using light signals, without any capability to deliver power. Wireless communication does not require physical cabling, rendering it incapable of delivering power through wires, as it relies on radio waves. Signal repeater technology is used to extend the distance over which data signals can travel but does not involve power delivery. Therefore, Power over Ethernet stands out as the definitive answer for combining power and data transmission in a network environment.