Switches

Power and Data on One Cable

Power over Ethernet (PoE) runs power and data over one Ethernet cable, with no separate power run to each device. A PoE switch allocates power by device draw, per-port limit, and the switch's total power budget.

• ✔ PoE+ (802.3at) delivers up to 30 W per port for security cameras, Wi-Fi access points, phones, and fare validators.
• ✔ PoE++ (802.3bt) delivers up to 60 W or 90 W per port for higher-draw devices, including pan-tilt cameras, outdoor access points, and displays.
• ✔ Total budget sets how many powered devices a switch can run at once. Add up the maximum draw of every connected device and leave headroom for peak demand and growth.

Sizing a PoE Switch: Ports, Speed, Uplinks, and Budget

Size a PoE switch by port count, speed, uplinks, power input, and environment, matched to the devices it will feed.

• ✔ Port count. From compact switches for kiosks and equipment cabinets to 48-port models for larger facilities, depots, and offices.
• ✔ Port speed. Gigabit Ethernet for most devices; 2.5G and 10G ports for high-bandwidth access points, cameras, and backbone links.
• ✔ Uplinks. Fiber uplink ports for longer runs between buildings, platforms, and remote cabinets.
• ✔ Power input. AC for network closets; DC input on ruggedized models for industrial cabinets, vehicles, and specialized installs.
• ✔ Environment. Fanless designs, extended operating temperature ranges, and ruggedized housings for locations without climate control. Explore Rugged Switches.

Managed, Unmanaged, or Cloud-Managed

Management options range from plug-and-play to multi-site administration from one console.

• ✔ Unmanaged switches pass traffic and, on PoE models, power with no configuration. The fit for simple installs with limited management needs.
• ✔ Managed switches add VLANs, Quality of Service (QoS), and per-port configuration through a local interface.
• ✔ Cloud-managed switches add remote configuration and monitoring across sites through the manufacturer console. The Paygasus catalog focuses on cloud-managed models for distributed operations.

Cloud-Managed Switching

Cloud-managed switches report to the manufacturer console. Depending on the model, administrators can configure individual ports, separate traffic with VLANs, schedule PoE power, and power-cycle a frozen camera or access point remotely.

Port changes and restarts can be made remotely, with consistent settings across locations.

Cloud management plans and terms are listed on each product page and quote.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much PoE budget does a site need?

Add the maximum draw of every connected PoE device, then leave headroom for startup surges and future devices. Each product page lists the switch's total PoE budget and maximum output per port.

PoE+ or PoE++?

PoE+ (802.3at) delivers up to 30 W per port, enough for most cameras, access points, phones, and validators. PoE++ (802.3bt) delivers up to 60 W or 90 W per port for pan-tilt cameras, outdoor access points, and other higher-draw equipment. PoE++ ports are backward compatible with standards-based PoE+ devices.

Can the switch be in a different building from the router?

Yes. Switches with fiber uplink ports connect equipment across buildings and other long runs. Compatible fiber modules, port types, and connection requirements are listed in each product's specifications.

When is a rugged switch needed?

For roadside cabinets, transit depots, platforms, vehicles, and other sites without climate control. Depending on the model, rugged switches offer fanless operation, DC power input, extended operating temperature ranges, and hardened construction.

Can one switch serve devices on separate networks?

Yes. Managed switches with VLANs separate devices into distinct logical networks on the same physical switch, keeping security cameras, payment terminals, and staff devices apart according to network and security policies.

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