Budget by quantity
| Quantity | Draw | Recommended budget |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 240 W | 300 W |
| 16 | 480 W | 600 W |
| 32 | 960 W | 1,200 W |
Values are the class maximum on the switch side (PSE). Real draw is usually lower, but the switch reserves the class power.
How many PoE watts do I need for 16 access points?
Answer
480 W at the switch (class 4 (802.3at))
16 access points on class 4 (802.3at) (30.0 W per port at the switch) add up to 480 W. Using the 80% rule, pick a switch with a PoE budget of at least 600 W.
More questions like this
Frequently asked questions
Do cameras really draw that much?
Not always: a typical dome camera draws 4–8 W, but IR and heaters push it up. Size by class so you don't fall short.
How far does PoE reach?
Up to 100 m of twisted pair (Cat5e or better). Beyond that, use a PoE extender or fiber.