PoE Booster Switch: Powering Networks in Off-Grid and Solar Environments

1. What is a PoE Booster Switch?

It is a network switch designed to operate directly from low-voltage DC power systems (commonly 12VDC or 24VDC), such as solar panels or batteries, and boost the voltage to deliver standard PoE (IEEE802.3af/at/bt) output. By integrating step-up converters or power management modules, these Ethernet switches allow users to power IP cameras, wireless APs, and other PoE devices even in environments where traditional AC power is unavailable.

For example, Olycom’s Solar-Powered PoE Switch IM-WP054BGE supports a wide DC input range from 12V to 48V, integrates a step-up converter, and delivers up to 120W PoE power budget, powering multiple IP devices reliably.

2. Typical Applications

DC-Boost PoE Switches are widely used in scenarios where off-grid power and PoE devices meet:

2.1 Remote Surveillance

Farms, forests, highways, or scenic areas often deploy IP cameras.

With solar + battery systems, Voltage boosting PoE network switches eliminate the need for AC lines and reduce cabling costs.

2.2 Solar-Powered Networks

Solar panels charge batteries that supply 12V/24VDC. The switch boosts this to 48V PoE, ensuring reliable day-and-night operation of PoE devices.

2.3 Mobile & Vehicle Installations

RVs, boats, and mobile communication units can run networking equipment directly from vehicle batteries without bulky inverters.

2.4 Outdoor Wireless Links

Wireless bridges or outdoor access points can be powered directly via PoE Booster Switches in remote areas where AC power is not available.

3. Why do we need a PoE Step-Up Switch?

3.1 Voltage Mismatch

Most PoE devices require 48V PoE, but solar and battery systems usually supply only 12V or 24V. A PoE Booster Switch solves this mismatch by stepping up the voltage internally.

3.2 Green Energy Integration

Supports off-grid solar systems, enabling eco-friendly and zero-carbon network deployments.

3.3 Simplified Deployment & Reliability

Many models integrate features such as MPPT charge controllers, PoE watchdog (auto-reboot for cameras), and industrial-grade protections, reducing maintenance effort.

3.4 Cost & Space Efficiency

Instead of adding external DC-DC converters or adapters, an all-in-one switch with booster capability saves both cost and installation space.

4. Key Technical Highlights (Typical Specs)

5. Market Demand

Users frequently express the need for such devices in solar or battery-powered networks.

As one networking enthusiast put it:

“I want a 24V DC powered PoE switch that can power 802.3af devices... I’ve spent almost two days scouring the internet.”

This highlights the strong demand for integrated solutions that bridge the gap between renewable energy systems and PoE-powered networks.

6. Conclusion

The PoE Booster Switch is an essential solution for deploying PoE devices in off-grid, solar-powered, or mobile environments.

By solving the voltage mismatch between low-voltage DC power and 48V PoE requirements, it enables flexible, reliable, and sustainable networking in surveillance, IoT, transportation, and energy monitoring applications.

As green energy adoption grows, PoE Booster Switches will become a key enabler for next-generation edge networks.

7. What Olycom Can Offer?

Remark: All models support PoE BT 60W if needed.

For Web GUI, it goes like this and supports customization.