Using 1 Cat5E cable to power 2 POE cameras at 1 location

[admin]

Using a Single Cat5E Cable to Power Two PoE IP Cameras: A Cost-Effective Solution
When setting up a security system with multiple PoE (Power over Ethernet) IP cameras, the need for multiple cables can quickly become cumbersome and expensive. However, with a bit of ingenuity and understanding of Ethernet cabling, you can power two PoE IP cameras using just one Cat5E cable and four RJ45 connectors. This method not only saves on cable costs but also reduces the complexity of your installation. Here’s how and why this solution can be beneficial compared to purchasing an Ethernet cable splitter.

Understanding the Cat5E Cable
A standard Cat5E cable consists of eight wires twisted into four pairs:

Pair 1: Orange/White and Orange
Pair 2: Green/White and Green
Pair 3: Blue/White and Blue
Pair 4: Brown/White and Brown
In a typical Ethernet setup, only two pairs are used for data transmission (pairs 1 and 3), while the other two pairs (2 and 4) are often left unused.

How to Use a Single Cat5E Cable for Two PoE IP Cameras
Materials Needed:

1 Cat5E cable
4 RJ45 connectors
Crimping tool
Steps:

Cut and Prepare the Cable:

Cut the Cat5E cable to the desired length.
Strip off the outer insulation to expose the eight individual wires.
Separate the Pairs:

For the first camera, use pairs 1 and 2.
For the second camera, use pairs 3 and 4.
Crimp the RJ45 Connectors:

Split the pairs as needed for each connector.
For each end of the cable, you will attach two RJ45 connectors: one for each camera.
Ensure the pairs are correctly aligned and crimp the connectors securely. The Wire pin out would be 1,2,3 and 6. You will do the second pair the same way 1,2,3,6 this means 4, 5, 7 and 8 are not used on either of the RJ45 connectors.
Connect to Cameras and Switch:

Plug one set of RJ45 connectors into the first camera and the second set into the second camera.
At the switch end, use a similar splitting method to connect to two ports.
By splitting the pairs, you essentially create two separate Ethernet connections within a single Cat5E cable, each capable of carrying data and power to an individual PoE IP camera.

Benefits Over Ethernet Cable Splitters
Cost-Effective:

Utilizing a single Cat5E cable and four RJ45 connectors is significantly cheaper than purchasing multiple splitters.
Ethernet splitters often cost more and require additional cables, further increasing the expense.
Reduced Cable Clutter:

One cable for two cameras minimizes the physical clutter, making the installation neater and easier to manage.
Fewer cables mean fewer points of potential failure, improving the reliability of your system.
Simplified Installation:

This method leverages the existing cabling infrastructure without needing extra devices like splitters.
It’s straightforward to implement with basic networking tools, avoiding the need for specialized equipment.
Flexibility:

Using the individual pairs within the Cat5E cable allows more flexibility in cable routing and camera placement.
This setup can be easily customized to suit various installation environments and requirements.
Conclusion
Using a single Cat5E cable to power two PoE IP cameras is an innovative and practical solution for reducing costs and simplifying installation. By understanding the wiring and utilizing all pairs within the cable, you can achieve a neat, efficient, and reliable setup. This method offers significant advantages over traditional Ethernet cable splitters, making it an excellent choice for both small and large security systems.

[admin]

If you are here and have a Newer Alibi POE NVR, I will admit this method of installation doesn't work. I will have to report back to what the Alibi is using to power the camera. It is strange to have a NVR that requires a different pin out. Normally the 1,2,3 and 6 works for all my other NVRs. Maybe they are using the last pins to power the cameras.. I know looking at a POE cameras PCB, from one of my POE cameras that I removed the Ethernet connection from the PCB. 4 and 5 and 7 and 8 are on a common trace. This goes to another Bridge Rectifier that was on the back of the PCB. First bridge rectifier is on the top of the PCB and the connection from the normal 1,2,3,6 first goes through an Ethernet Transformer before it then goes over to the BR on the top..

So I have broke my last Ethernet crimper and will need to test what is used in Alibi, My guess is 1,2 and 4,5. However I will have to test and confirm before I say for sure that will work.. I just wanted to point out that all my Dahua and Amcrest NVRs that I use as my Main NVRs use the 1,2,3 and 6 so testing to make sure that works for you before making all your cables is a must.

Be Safe
James